Kiama Lions Club held its annual dinner to celebrate the changing of the guard, as President Peter Scifleet handed the reins over to incoming President John Larkins.

The Club also presented awards to outstanding members for their contributions to the community over the past 12 months.

Mr Scifleet wasn’t shy about sharing his reasons for standing for the position a year ago: there wasn’t anyone else willing to take the reins. That issue has been amended over the past 12 months as President Larkins takes on the leadership role.

Mr Scifleet noted that membership numbers were sliding downward, but thanks to Secretary English, the club added nine new members in 2022-23. 

The Changeover Dinner also celebrated some of the club member’s achievements throughout the year. Michael Fox was congratulated for his work running the club’s bottle & can collections and ANZAC Day Dawn Service & March collection, all while building a home with his son.

Secretary Bobbie English was acknowledged for her hard work spent organising the club’s sessions running the Bunnings BBQs on weekends and for “stretching the regulations” to introduce music to each event. The club also thanked Damien Daiburra for donating ice to cool down drinks for each BBQ.

Mr Scifleet noted that membership numbers were sliding downward, but thanks to Secretary English, the club added nine new members in 2022-23. 

Next was Ron Micaleff, who was responsible for running the Driver Reviver stations and potentially saving hundreds of lives just by having a cuppa and a chat with passing motorists.

Lion Cheryl Moses was thanked for managing the Carers Cottage, which the club rents out to holiday makers, as well as managing Comedy for a Cause at the Kiama Leagues Club, which proved to be one of Kiama Lions Club’s most successful events throughout the year.

Finally, Mr Scifleet welcomed incoming President John Larkins: “I wish you and your board all the best for your upcoming year.”

Kiama Mayor Neil Reilly spoke on the close relationship between Council and the local chapter of the Lions Club since it was founded in 1970

Kiama Lions Club Secretary Bobbie English, The Bugle's Belinda Woodfield, Kiama Lions' Bill & Franca Lyon, and outgoing President Peter Scifleet

New Kiama Lions Club President John Larkin with his son, Councillor Stuart Larkin

Tony Granger

Cheryl Moses new Vice President

Chris & Claire Kilmore

Ken & Stella McLeish

Bill & Franca Lyons - incoming President at Minamurra Lions

Enjoying the meal at Kiama Leagues Club

A night out for celebrating achievements with the Lions

A special Lions award for Beau pictured with his dad.

Janet Bruce, who was awarded the Keith Small Gold Honour Award, and outgoing President Peter Scifleet