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Shepparton Lions Club roars with compassion and community spirit

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Community service: Lions Club of Shepparton secretary treasurer Terry Collison, president Patsy Lansdown, Lions lady Brenda Collison, FamilyCare chief executive David Tennant and Lions Club of Shepparton vice president Ian Tagg. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

Over recent months, Shepparton’s Lions Club has tackled an array of initiatives, from flood relief to public speaking coaching for schoolchildren.

The club’s efforts were particularly notable in response to the 2021-2022 Queensland floods.

Upon witnessing the devastation, the club was quick to extend its support, stepping in to assist those in need.

This gesture was later reciprocated by the Lions Club of Queensland, presenting a $1000 donation to help flood victims affected by the subsequent Shepparton floods in October last year.

The relief funds were then channelled to FamilyCare to support ongoing flood recovery efforts.

Changeover: Irene Crawford, Terry Collison, Ian Tagg, Patsy Lansdown and City of Greater Shepparton Deputy Mayor Anthony Brophy. Photo by Contributed

Alongside its social work, the club recently underwent its annual leadership transition for 2023-2024.

The ceremony, attended by honorary Shepparton Lions Club member City of Greater Shepparton Deputy Mayor Anthony Brophy, inducted new office bearers, including Terry Collison as secretary/treasurer, Irene Crawford as membership officer and Ian Tagg as vice president.

Meanwhile, Ms Lansdown retained her presidency.

Building confidence: The Lions Club of Shepparton hosted the Lions junior public speaking program club finals at Bourchier St Primary School. Photo by Contributed

In its educational outreach, the club successfully hosted the Lions junior public speaking club finals at Bourchier St Primary School.

Young public speakers from various local primary schools showcased their skills, with Sacred Heart College’s Olivia Talarico, Year 3, and Tatura Primary School’s Lilli Keane, Year 6, clinching the top spots.

They will now represent the region at the state finals, and were each awarded a $50 voucher courtesy of Furphy Engineering.

Good turnout: More than 600 people gathered at the Lions Club of Shepparton’s Circus Quirkus event. Photo by Contributed

Additionally, the club recently maintained its long-standing tradition of organising the annual Circus Quirkus Show.

Held on July 29 at Visy Stadium, the event attracted 640 children and their families.

The crowd was treated to a spectacular display from a mix of Australian and international performers, creating a memorable experience for the young attendees.

“A very big thank you to all those who donated this year and in past years,” Ms Lansdown said.