Minnamurra Lions have entered an exciting new era, celebrating their inaugural official dinner meeting at the Kiama Golf Club. 

This special evening featured a keynote presentation from Jenny Barclay, District N2 instructor for the Lions Eye Health Program (LEHP). 

Jenny’s talk emphasised the critical importance of early detection vision screening and described the increasing momentum behind the LEHP initiative throughout the Kiama–Shoalhaven region.

During the event, Minnamurra Lions confirmed their commitment to community health by announcing their upcoming participation in the next LEHP children’s vision screening. 

This screening is scheduled for 1 March at Kiama Surf Life Saving Club.

The club’s involvement in this initiative underscores their ongoing dedication to supporting local families and strengthening health-focused community projects.

The evening was marked by the induction of John Dawson as the newest member of the Minnamurra Lions. 

John is a long-standing resident of the Kiama Downs and Gainsborough area and brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in education, including many years teaching at Kiama High School. 

He is also renowned for his extensive community service record.

John’s volunteer contributions span numerous local sporting groups, such as the Kiama Cavaliers and the Kiama District Sports Association. 

His commitment to the community has been recognised with a Kiama Council Local Government Award and the honour of being named Kiama Municipal Council Senior Citizen of the Year for 2025–2026.

In his address, John said he and his wife are “deeply entrenched in the area” and have a strong passion for “giving back to the community”. 

Minnamurra Lions president Dennis Beyon reflected on the significance of the evening, stating that it established a solid foundation for the club’s future.

“With new members, new partnerships, and new opportunities to serve, Minnamurra Lions is building real momentum.”

For more information about the Minnamurra Lions, visit their website at https://minnamurralions.org.au/