October 2025
Summary
This document recaps recent community events, including the Pickleball Tournament where volunteers helped with the BBQ despite lower-than-expected sales, and the successful "Share a Cuppa" gathering, which saw strong community turnout and support from local businesses. It also mentions the need for future discussions about event planning and acknowledges the efforts of organisers and volunteers.
President Report October 2025
The Pickleball Tournament
Thanks to the volunteers who assisted with the BBQ for the Pickleballers on Saturday and Sunday 13th & 14th September. We managed to have two shifts on Saturday but decided to start later on Sunday and finish early. While the weather was excellent for playing pickleball the takings for the BBQ were down on expectations. 
I guess it was difficult for players to eat prior to their games especially if they advanced to the next round. Many people would have bought their own food and refreshments as well. Whatever the reason I think we need to have further discussions with HP Pickleball Club and maybe also look at other food options if we are to consider doing this again next year especially over two days.
Share a Cuppa
Thanks to Virginia for the great work in putting together this wonderful event ably assisted by Helen Bauert and hubbies Alan Stewart and Steve Bauert. Thanks also to the Lions members who assisted with the setting up on Wednesday and helping with food preparation and serving on Thursday.
It was great to see the fantastic response from the community with over 100 people attending and enjoying the food, games and Lion Faye’s address.
Huge thanks also to our local and surrounding businesses that supported the event with donations for the raffle.
For more information see Virginia’s Directors report.
1st VDG Visit and Dinner: Thursday 25th October
1st VDG Joe Pope and his partner Lion Louise Evans (District Cabinet Secretary) visited our club to join us for our dinner.
Prior to the dinner Joe was able to attend the Share a Cuppa which he and Louise thoroughly enjoyed. Following Share a Cuppa Joe and Louise visited the Op Shop and purchased some items.
At the dinner Joe related information from our International President A.P. Singh and shared part of his vision to make life better for others. A.P. Singh’s mantra ‘Lead to Serve, Serve to Lead’. As a service organisation we need to reflect the diverse community we serve. Are we inviting younger members or making space for more women?
Following his address Joe inducted seven new members into Lions: Molly Aiken, Eleanor Carrier, Natalie Carrier, Tina Crowther, Jan Thomas, Steve and Elna Rawson. Prior to their induction each new member was invited to tell us a little about themselves. It’s great that we have such a variety of interests and talents within our club and we look forward to serving with them to benefit our local community and further afield.
Joe also presented the District Governor’s Certificate of Appreciation to our Immediate Past President / Treasurer Noel McManus in
recognition of the work he has done over the past years and continues to do. An accolade well deserved.
Social Dance
Garry has been working behind the scenes to organise a social dance at the Surf Club in November. He has booked an entertainer to provide the music and has approached the Surf Club to have the bar open during the evening with people bringing their own food and nibblies. Garry has had a lot of interest from community members who are eager to participate.
Skate Park Opening
Mel Orchard has sent through an update of the proposed Skate Park opening being Sunday 16th of November from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Setting up from 8:00am to pack up at 6:00pm. The HP Lions have been invited to assist with the organisation and also providing a BBQ and drinks with profits to go to the Skate Park. They have also asked for the use of the Chocolate Wheel but may just do a raffle draw.
Mel, assisted by Simon, has already done much of the organisation but is seeking Lions assistance in providing any contacts or connections. 2nd VP Garry has met with Mel and is keen offer our assistance.
Please keep the date available: Sunday 16th November.
Citizen of the Year 2026 and Young Citizen of the Year 2026
An article and an ad have been placed in the October issue of Hallidays Point NoOW seeking nominations for Citizen of the Year 2026 and Young Citizen of the Year which will presented on Australia Day 2026.
If you know of any worthy candidates who ‘have made a difference and has contributed significantly to building community cooperation and cohesion’ then consider nominating them for this honour.
We have a community that has many excellent candidates who work tirelessly behind the scenes doing incredible work for others or building up our community. Just reading in the latest October issue of Hallidays Point NoOW the article of Kristine Simeon from Black Head winning the 2025 Senior Volunteer of the Year Award in Port Macquarie.
The ads will be running in the next two issues of Hallidays Point NoOW.
Cheers, President Vaughn