The Bugle attended the Kiama Lions Club's 54th Changeover Dinner on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Over 70 members and guests gathered for the event. Mayor Neil Reilly toasted Lions International, and Gareth Ward thanked the club for their efforts. The new 2024-2025 officers were installed, and the outgoing President John Larkins and the incoming President Cheryl Moses addressed the audience.

Mr. Larkins expressed his honour and privilege in serving as President over the past year, stating, "I joined Lions because I enjoy helping people. Thank you, Kiama Lions, for giving me that opportunity, your friendship, and the chance to serve." 

This was in fact the second time John has served as President, the first being 2018-19, and he said that “it has been quite different from last time.” Mainly that everyone is older, including himself, and he is aware that this has impacted on some of Lions’ capacity and desire to tackle objectives that in past years, they wouldn’t have thought twice about.

Reflecting on his approach, Mr. Larkins emphasised aligning the club's purposes and ethics with the Pillars of Lionism to make a difference in the community, district, state, nation, and world. He reiterated that Lions is a vital service organisation, crucial to the community's well-being. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by the numerous volunteer organisations competing for support and stressed the need for the Lions Club to adapt and innovate.

Mr. Larkins advocated for initiating and facilitating activities in partnership with other community organisations. He expressed optimism about initiatives like the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), the Lions Eye Health Program, and community partnerships, believing they would yield successful outcomes for the club in both the short and long term.

He thanked the Kiama Lions board, specifically Jim Webb (Secretary) and Rick Scott-Murphy (Treasurer), for their assistance and guidance. Tony Grainger and Veronica Dzelde were also acknowledged for their contributions, and past President Peter Scifleet was thanked for providing guidance and a strong foundation for the year.

Incoming President Cheryl Moses expressed her enthusiasm for her new role. She is the second woman to hold the position, following Veronica Dzelde (2020-2022). Cheryl thanked John for his leadership and expressed her hope to continue his legacy by developing new ideas and approaches to community service.

Cheryl shared a personal story about joining the Lions Club after her husband's passing, stating, "Lions was the obvious choice for me. I already knew a lot about Lions due to working with Ralph on many occasions and attending social events together over the years. Kiama Lions members were very welcoming and supportive when I joined, and I look forward to that continued support during my year as President and beyond."

Ms Moses highlighted the Lions' longstanding humanitarian efforts, from providing vision care and supporting disaster relief to funding research into cancer and other diseases. She emphasised that Kiama Lions is committed to making a tangible difference in the community.

In the coming year, Ms Moses aims to lead with a focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and enjoyment. She encouraged open and constructive discussions about service projects and membership growth to generate renewed enthusiasm within the club.

"Thank you for giving me this opportunity – I look forward to working with you. Together we can truly make a difference," Ms Moses said, also thanking her family and friends for their love and support.