District Governor, Anne Jones, predicts upward of $80,000 was generated into the community over the weekend as Wellington hosted the 57th annual District 201N4 Lions Convention.
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Several venues across town were booked out as 200 people from around the country – including international visitor, Dr Jerimiah Myers of Alaska – travelled to Wellington for the three-day event.
The Lions convention doubled as the organisation’s centenary celebration – a milestone Anne saw fitting to be held in Wellington this year.
“I think it was really important to hold the convention in Wellington because Lions were celebrating 100 years, Wellington was celebrating 200 years, and the two clubs that put in for the convention – Wellington Lions 65 years and Geurie Lions 35 years,” she said.
Members and guests kicked off the weekend with a meet and greet on Friday, followed by a remembrance service at the Japanese Gardens for the 26 Lions who had passed away over the last year.
Proceedings continued on Saturday with an official opening by Federal Member Andrew Gee, welcome to the country by Aunty Joyce Williams, an international flag ceremony conducted by the Wellington Girl Guides, speeches by special guests, and performances by Wellington Public School students, and indigenous dancers.
The Lions’ disaster tool library – donated by Roger Fletcher of Fletcher’s International Exports, and stocked with $10,280 worth of tools – was officially opened.
A formal gala dinner was held at the Civic Centre on Saturday night, attended by Dubbo Regional Council mayor Ben Shields, Andrew Gee and State Member Troy Grant.
Celebrations wrapped-up on Sunday with guest speakers, and a flag ceremony to close the convention.
“I think the important thing was to showcase Wellington for people to see what we have to offer, and to have so many people turn up and actually go out on tours to the dam, arboretum, gold mining sites, people looking at our heritage buildings, the caves – it was all about showcasing Wellington,” Anne said.
“This was our way of showing them we are a beautiful town with wonderful people, and it is a great venue for them to come and spend their time.
“I want to thank all those businesses in Wellington that supported us with the convention. Just about every business house in Wellington did something.”
