Lions Club of Torquay has a new president.
Colin Bellis handed over the role to Ross Yapp for the 2024-26 year at its changeover event last week.
Colin has served as president for two terms.
“Lions are highly respected within our community because of our service provided directly as well as through funding support,” he said.
Much of the club’s service focus is through raising important funds for the community and humanitarian causes.
The main fundraising activities are Cowrie Markets (barbecue and train), Bunnings and other barbecues, train outings (including to Warralily Market), the Billy Ryan Charity Bowls Day and pub and caravan park raffles.
Torquay Lions have distributed more than $80,000 this year with about $35,000 going to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
This year the Torquay SES Unit was the beneficiary of a bowls charity day with $12,000 raised.
Lions have supported the new Ridgeline Trail initiative (a bike and walking path between Torquay and Bellbrae that focus on primary school children) with a $10,000 donation.
It was also the final year of their three-year support for the Art of the Minds Song Contest which shines a light on mental health.
The Lions Sundial remains a Torquay landmark, a project of the Torquay Lions Club. Local artisan Claire Gittings takes care of repair work.
“We seek to strike a balance between Lions Foundations – covering disaster relief and medical research in particular – local groups and sporting clubs, local emergency services and local schools,” incoming president Ross Yapp said.
“We still look for new members who would like to be involved in helping deliver projects to our local community. We are very grateful for the support of so many in our community – businesses and individuals.”
The ‘marquee’ activity for the club continues to be their work with Feed Me Surf Coast – providing and coordinating deliveries of food to those who need it – from Torquay to Winchelsea, Anglesea and Belmont.
