Every year, thousands of Lions take to the streets in a host city at the Lions International Convention to represent their homeland and celebrate their heritage during the iconic Parade of Nations.
King Island Leos departed the island and took part in the two-day event experience representing King Island, Tasmania and Australia.
“Leo Lilly Davis was a flagbearer and proudly carried the Tasmanian flag in the Parade of Nations for many hours,”
Leo’s Australian Coordinator and member of Leo’s International Board, Linda Payne said.
The King Island Leos marched with Australian and international Leos through the Royal Botanical Gardens at the head of the parade. Being first across the finish line, they were able to break away and watch the nations, costumes, and floats pass by and have a fully immersive experience.
“Taylor Jordan joined Lilly marching with the Australian Lions contingent who were positioned last as the host nation for 150 countries,” she said.
“The King Island Leo’s did King Island proud and represented the island very well.
“They have had a very busy but exciting experience. Our Leos have met many people from different countries – people were drawn to their hats that had a stuffed toy Lion on top.”
Pin collecting, as with many large international events was very popular.
Ms Payne said the convention encouraged Leos “as leaders of tomorrow” to take a position front and centre. Leo specific activities included a disco night, the Elton John Experience, Elton John tribute act and social events.
“Our Leos have been able to meet other Leos and they have made new friends in other Leo clubs. For some, this was their first trip away without their families or school.
“While all were carefully monitored, there was a little more freedom and as a group they enjoyed tram rides, shopping and of course the inevitable McDonalds.
“Other activities included entertainment on the Yarra, the Skyline Ferris wheel, and the immersive experience ‘Monopoly Dreams’ featuring augmented reality, 4D technology, physical challenges and games,” Ms Payne said.
“They are already talking about fundraising for their next trip – possibly the Australian Lions Convention in Traralgon next year,” she said.
Facebook will soon block the majority of local news in your feed but that’s no reason to miss out.
Get your news straight from the horse’s mouth: https://fontpublishing.com.au/kingislandcourier/
For digital subscriptions of the weekly paper, follow the website
links.