Focusing on community service and support, the Wattle Grove Lions Club hosted the 201N2 District Lions 65th Convention in October 2022. The members of the Lions Club worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event, proudly supported by a ClubGRANT from Ingleburn RSL Club.
Changing the world together
A rare opportunity to showcase the district, the last time the Lions Convention was held in Ingleburn was more than 20 years ago. A celebration of community and our diverse local area, the convention welcomed 150 attendees daily across the three day event. Positively, the attendees included an even split of Lions Club members and people from the community.
“We advertised the convention as a community event,” explains Caroline Franshaw, President, Wattle Grove Lions Club. “We reached out to different community groups and we had an overwhelmingly positive response.”
In line with their commitment to making a difference, the convention included informative presentations, a memorial service and the spectacular Titanic Gala Ball. A common thread throughout the event was a dedication to serving the social, cultural and moral welfare of the community.
Supporting community
Like other community organisations, COVID-19 hampered fundraising efforts. The ClubGRANT from Ingleburn RSL Club was a welcome support in covering the costs of the event. The result was an inclusive experience for all attendees, even more important after the disconnection of the last three years.
“We really appreciate the support because we would have been in the red otherwise thanks to COVID,” says Caroline. “A convention isn’t a fundraiser. We’re there to share and involve our community. We couldn’t have hosted that event without the funds from Ingleburn RSL Club.”
She highlighted the value of bringing people together, while also engaging the younger generations through programs like Cubs.
“It was just lovely,” says Caroline, referring to the sense of community and inclusiveness that was fostered at the event.
Well-deserved recognition
The success of the Wattle Grove Lions Club didn’t go unnoticed. Ms Tania Mihailuk MP, Member for Bankstown made a Community Recognition Statement to NSW Parliament congratulating the club on the conference.
“The incredible Lions volunteers do tremendous humanitarian work in every community in NSW,” reads Ms Mihailuk’s statement. “Just some of the causes championed by Lions Clubs include: Diabetes research and prevention, addressing Vision Impairment and Blindness, Hunger, Childhood Cancer research, The Environment, and sustainability.”
Terry Goldsworthy, President of Ingleburn RSL Club echoed these sentiments.
“We are proud to have supported the Wattle Grove Lions convention through ClubGRANTS. It was a joy to see the community come together to showcase the best of Ingleburn and surrounds to a wider audience,” says Terry. “ClubGRANTS is a wonderful way for us to give back to our local community and this is just one example of the great things we can achieve together. I encourage other community organisations to learn more about ClubGRANTS and how to apply.”
