“That’s why we’re thrilled to be hosting our District 201 V2 annual convention in Horsham this year. So get ready for November 4, 5 and 6,” she said.
Lions V2 district governor Tom Blair said Lions were delighted after two years of being unable to come together to gather in Horsham.
“We are really excited to be coming to Horsham to enjoy the local hospitality and support the economy,” he said.
“We are looking forward to working with the community of Horsham.”
Wimmera people have an invitation to connect and explore aspects of Lions Clubs International with Victorian Lions members during the Horsham event.
People will also be able to attend plenary sessions at the town hall to listen to renowned presenters speak on a wide variety of topics.
Guests will also be able to hear from organisational leaders about the past, present and future of Lions Australia.
Miss Challis said organisers would meet Wimmera club representatives next month to discuss planning details. “We are looking forward to bringing hundreds of Lions and their families to the beautiful city of Horsham, where we will explore the rich history and take in the wide variety of cafes, restaurants and shops Horsham offers,” she said.
Anxiety before a Christmas break, however, remained between the district committee and Horsham City Lions Club members over behind-the-scenes planning for the convention.
Horsham City president Wayne Lentsment said his club had been disappointed the committee had ‘not clearly communicated their affirmation of the 2022 convention’ after the club had ‘provided numerous details and quotes from local and regional businesses and services’.
He said the organisation’s district cabinet had ‘commandeered’ the event ‘without so much as a by your leave’.
“At a meeting attended by local club members and representatives from the district cabinet there was no consensus on the decision to hold the convention at Longerenong, which is what Victorian district members voted on at last year’s convention,” he said.
“A motion was put that the City of Horsham club withdraw its bid for the convention because the district was not supporting the club in its planning and local-knowledge connections.
“District representatives would not accept the Victoria District V2 members’ decision to hold it at Wimmera Events Centre.
“Much work and many hours of planning and development have been wasted by the district cabinet decision to organise the 2022 convention.”
Mr Lenstment said City of Lions Club remained disappointed an original format would not go ahead for the convention as planned.
The entire January 12, 2022 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
