Service club always climbing new mountains to help those in need
RETIRED as Bathurst Agricultural Association president, Norman Elliott took up another role last weekend when he was appointed president of the Port Alfred Lions Club.
He joked that he was getting his own back on his fellow Lions by having the induction ceremony in Kleinemonde, where he lives, after travelling through to Port Alfred so many times.
The spirit of jesting was spurred by a jovial master of ceremonies, Rob Brunette, who teased outgoing president Nico Muller about his recent engagement.
Immediate past district governor Bokkie Oberholtzer provided an overview of Lion history since the inception of the organisation in 1917. He presented a presidential medal to Mike Newlands for all his service for Lions.
In his valedictory address, Muller said: “This was our year, not my year.” He mentioned the Lions’ involvement in several projects and community events, including the Kowie Night Bowls, where they also provided food and music, a Valentine’s dance, support for the House of Happiness for the elderly in Nemato, Lettie Freeman’s soup kitchen in Station Hill, diabetes testing, the Lions’ Operation Bright Sight eye clinic, organising a special occasion for residents of Sunset Park for retired servicemen and social events like a camp and fishing competition.
“It’s not one person who organises everything,” Muller said. “I want to thank all the members in the club for their hard work. Board members, you make it easy.”
New president Elliott said it had been a difficult past year, but he had confidence in his committee. “We ’re climbing new mountains – always looking for new members, service projects, youth, vision and hunger,” he said. “To be a member of Lions is not easy on younger people, young couples with kids. I’d like to have sponsorship to be able to pay the fees of younger members.”
He said with Francois de Klerk in charge of fellowship, “I’m sure we’ll never lack for fellowship”.
Lions would like to be more involved in community, he added. “Thanks to Nico for serving as president for the past year. Hopefully next year this time we’ll be able to give you some very good news.”
Attendance awards for 100% attendance at meetings were handed to John Dell, Francois de Klerk, Mike Newlands, Norman Elliott, Rob Brunette, Lorenda de Klerk, Illana de Klerk, Tessa and Ivo Chunnett and Dennis White.
Certificates of appreciation were given to Lorenda de Klerk, Illana de Klerk, John Dell, Dirk and Lucinda de Vos, and Francois de Klerk was named Lion of the year.
