IT was a time of remembrance and celebration for Lions and Lioness members across the region over the weekend with the official opening of the Mount Gambier Lions Centennial Park.
Marking 100 years of Lions International and paying tribute to those who have served the community over the years with the unveiling of a new memorial wall, the park is a representation of what being a Lion is all about.
Situated at the old Mount Gambier hospital site, the park was constructed over the past four years by hard working and dedicated members of clubs within zone 11 and assistance from Mount Gambier City Council.
Addressing the crowd of Lions members, family and friends on Saturday afternoon, Lion and Lions Memorial Wall dedication officer Allan Woodham OAM said the park was a real asset for the Blue Lake city.
“It is really desired that this wonderful achievement will be an area that serves our community and that everyone that ventures here will reflect on the plaques on the wall, but also enjoy recreation that this area can bring,” he said.
“Examining the details revealed on the plaques on the entrance, we see just a tiny example of the service rendered by those who have dedicated their time, talents and efforts through Lions Clubs International to their local communities.
“We give thanks in remembrance to them and their faithful contributions.
“Their service encourages us as current members and will inspire those who will join us into the future.”
Joined by presidents of each club in the zone, project coordinator Peter Pignotti was given the honour of officially opening the park with the cutting of a ribbon.
Overseeing the works for the past four years, Mr Pignotti said it was a chance to thank those who were involved throughout the process.
“I would like to thank the council for providing this location and funding for the project and the Lions and Lionesses who contributed their time and expertise in making this park a reality,” he said.
“In time I hope together we can add to the park by providing more facilities for families to enjoy, such as play equipment and shade trees.
“Within the design of this park we wanted to be able to embrace the meaning of the Lions emblem – to look forward we also need to look backward – and with this Lions Memorial Wall we can look back at the achievements of past Lions and Lionesses and carry their legacy forward for the next 100 years.”
