2006-2007 President John Atkins
I believe that the past year has seen the Lions Club of Moree progress considerably in some aspects, but unfortunately remains stagnant in others. However, I also believe that the progress achieved during 2006-2007 could, to a degree, contribute to correcting some of the downside issues that we face, being principally membership with which we in the Lions Club of Moree are not alone. I also believe that to gain new members we must approach the projects and tasks in Lions on a more professional and progressive basis more in keeping with the general standards of today.
The equipment upgrade to a mobile barbecue and 40ft storage container has been well received by the members and should prove to be of considerable value for many years hence, however, I do look forward to the installations in and actual use of the container in the short term.
The Golden Grain Cotton Festival inaugral reviews and regular meetings which commenced in January have consumed valuable time in this initial year, but without doubt the services of Co-ordinator Juliette Rowan will result in a much improved and more professionally organised event which should also enhance our image with sponsors and the general community. Thanks to those Lions and Lions Ladies who have provided valuable input into the organising of the 2007 Festival by attending those regular meetings and volunteering their services.
Socially, we have had a fairly successful year, particularly with the weekend trips to Singleton and Tenterfield thanks to organiser Lion Darcy Churchland plus an earlier day trip to Bingara where we were hosted by the Lions of all those Clubs, but sadly we have lacked general inter Club visits and to a degree, guest speakers.
Youth of the Year was again successfully conducted by our Club with three young and most able ladies entering the Competition. Thanks to those organising Lions involved in this very worthy annual project.
Dinner meetings in reality have constantly shown an attendance of approximately 60% of membership which certainly does leave a little to be desired whilst Board meetings have generally been well attended and business dealt with accordingly.
By far the largest project undertaken in recent years and completed this year has been that of the Gwydir Industries work shed for the intended use of pressing recyclables. This project is an absolute credit to not only those Lions who have contributed the occasional days, but particularly to overseer Lion Col Arthur together with those others who committed ongoing and endless weekends month after month until completion of the project in April of this year. "A roaring effort Lions" to say the least.
A bouquet must go to Lion Brett Farlow who gladly stepped into the shoes of long serving Bulletin editor Lion John Thompson who has also continued the high standard of producing an excellent news Bulletin and is, thankfully, to continue into the ensuing year. Thanks Brett !.
To all Lions, Lions Ladies and particularly long serving Secretary Lion Peter, Treasurer Lion Rob, (LL Lorraine) and all members of the 2006-2007 Board, Sincere thanks for your unfailing support and efforts during the past year.
To President elect Lion Bernie,Vice Presidents Lions Steve and Tom, I thank you for your valuable co-operation and assistance as Vice Presidents during the year gone and wish you and your Board a very successful and equally rewarding term in 2007-2008 to that of which I have experienced.
Yours in Lionism
Lion John Atkins
President 2006-2007