Lions Club district governor Rocky Wright was on hand to see Liz Huckle become the new president of the Lions Club of Hout Bay last week.
Ms Huckle, who has been president twice before, assumed the reins from Andrea Hespel, who oversaw the club for the past two years.
The induction ceremony was held at the Hout Bay Museum on Wednesday August 8.
It was a difficult term for Ms Hespel, as the Lions rallied to assist the thousands of victims of last year’s fire in Imizamo Yethu.
She also had to contend with the drought that struck Cape Town, and delegate resources to needy areas. There have been positives as well, however. “Our main project is the bursary fund, and several of our students have completed their studies and now have permanent employment,” she said.
Other successes included the club’s role in the Lions’ Peace Poster competition, for which they had collaborated with creative arts NPO Lalela, the Christmas lunches for seniors in Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg, and the One-to-One initiative, which involves fostering personal relationships between volunteers and the disabled.
Ms Hespel thanked all members for their support, particularly during the difficult times.
Before inducting Ms Huckle, Mr Wright said he was “blown away” by the various projects the Hout Bay
Lions undertook.
Ms Huckle said she promised to do her best in serving the club. “I lead a team of unique individuals who in their
own special way help the most vulnerable members of our community. We work very closely with the Rotary Club of Hout Bay in the spirit of mutual respect and co-operation, and we aim to build on this relationship,” she said.
“In the next year, we want to build an even stronger team. Together we can embrace change and live up to the Lions’ motto, ‘we serve’.”
After the proceedings, members and guests enjoyed some refreshments and light snacks, bringing down the curtain on
a memorable night for all involved.