CLUB HISTORY

In March 2003 a challenge was issued by then DG Mike Whale to his Cabinet Secretary Diane Stewart. The challenge was to see which one of them could set up a New Century Lions Club first. Diane enlisted the help of Bill Batt (they became known as Guiding Lions) and together they got the ball rolling. Fliers were put up, radio advertising was used and local businesses were contacted, all in an effort to get a group of 20+ 18-35 year olds to assemble with a view to setting up a new Lions Club. On May 7 2003 23 young people turned up, although not all of these young people decided it was something they would like to pursue. A group of "older" Lions spoke about what was involved in becoming a Lion and joining the largest service organisation in the world.

At the conclusion of the evening, each young person was challenged to return in two weeks with a friend. And so on 21 May 2003 a new Lions Club, which was to be called Southern Pride Invercargill New Century Lions Club, or Southern Pride for short, evolved.

Forms were completed and the first three elections were held, for President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Elected into these positions were Lynette Batt, Nicole Kennedy and Jolene Maguire respectively.

In another part of Southland, another group of young people were forming the Otautau New Century Lions Club. They had decided to celebrate their charter on Saturday 28 June 2003. Not to be outdone, Southern Pride members decided to celebrate their charter on Friday 27 June 2003.

A dinner was held at the Working Mens Club in Invercargill and was attended by all but two members. All members were inducted into the Club and received their Charter pins.

Southern Pride were lucky to have the support of the Lions Clubs of Waikiwi, Makawera, Invercargill East and Invercargill South who split the cost of chartering Southern Pride between them. The Clubs have all continued to support Southern Pride in various ways since its inception, either by passing projects along or seeking assistance with projects.

During the first two years after inception, Guiding Lions Diane and Bill attended all meetings and most social events as they supported the Club.

Members have come and gone, and as at June 2009, six years after inception, just eight of the Charter Members remain.

Given the age range for the Club, it is very transient and this was to be expected.

In 2003 there were five New Century Lions Clubs going, today there is only one. Having stood the test of time, Southern Pride has a very promising future.