The Liverpool Lioness club may be no more, but their fundraising and volunteering efforts over 40 years will forever be on the record.
Just six remaining six members made the decision to close the club after the international Lions board of directors in 2018 called on all Lioness clubs to become Lions club members by June 2021.
Since the club was formed in 1981 the Lionesses have raised more than $250,000 in funding and have completed more than 150,000 hours of voluntary work in the area.
The club began with a membership of 30, however when Defence personnel began to move away from the area it suffered a decline in numbers.
The six remaining members pictured below with the mayor, Ruth Grimson, Nell Corliss, Janelle Collins, Pauline Dinning, Lynette Dupon and Trish Friend, have tirelessly continued the club’s work in the last few years.
Even during Covid-19 the Lionesses continued their incredible work and raised $22,000 in cash donations in the club’s final year.
Highlights over the 40 years have included building a pergola in Pioneer Park to house the headstones of local pioneer children.
They also compiled a booklet called 200 Things to Know About Liverpool, whichwas printed by Liverpool Council, and:
- Built an aviary and garden at Mainsbridge School.
- Supported Liverpool Hospital’s Wig Library for cancer patients over the past 15 years by donating more than $31,000 worth of wigs.
- Supplied Easter eggs and Christmas puddings to Meals on Wheels annually, worth an estimated $16,000.
Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller held a high tea at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre for the Lioness.
“Many incredible women have joined the ranks of the Liverpool Lioness club over the years,’’ Cr Waller said.
“Their commitment to helping the community is an example for us all and reminds us, particularly during challenging times, of the importance of charity and compassion,” Cr Waller said.
The high tea marked the last official event and the closure of the Lioness club.
