Long-Serving Lions Recognised

With seven years at the helm of Cohuna and District LEOS and advisor since its commencement, Lions Committee member Lee Walkington has stepped down from the position to take on a new role as ‘Victorian State LEO Advisor’ from January next year. 

In appreciation of the dedication and service shown by both Lee and husband Norm for their tireless work for the Cohuna and District LEOS over the years, a special certificate and gift was presented on Saturday night to each of the local stalwarts to say ‘thank you’.

Lee shared how with one door closing, another is opening up to new opportunities.

“I knew it was time. It needs new people and a new focus.

“I was also offered another position which meant I couldn’t be a LEO Advisor in Cohuna.

I’m a bit chuffed about it. It will be a big challenge,” Lee said.

In showing the way for other community, the Cohuna & District LEOS continue to take the lead following on from the strong leadership mentoring and role modelling by Lee and Norm.

“I think they’ve earn’t it. The LEOS are out there, they’re seen working. They are one group of youth that have a really positive effect in the community and I think that is the most important thing. 

“If we teach them nothing else, we teach them respect for themselves and respect for where they are in the community.

“I’m extremely proud of all the LEOS that have gone through. They have their own identity.” Lee said.

Norm will continue on as a male leader for the LEOS, whilst Lee will still be actively involved however, and has handed over the role to Fiona Smith with assistance by Leiza Webb in a dual advisory role. 

“It will be in good hands,” Lee said.

Upon receiving the certificate, both Lee and Norm were humbled recipients and presented with a lovely gift.

“They (LEOS) made the most beautiful memory book with photos from the beginning. It’s absolutely fantastic. It was really special. Something we will treasure,” Lee said.

Both Lee and Norm’s community involvement has provided an opportunity for many youth in the region, especially for those that aren’t involved in sporting organisations or participate in other activities.

“It gave them a place in the community. The kids need somewhere to belong,” Lee went onto say.

With a positive aim in building the support for LEOS across the state, Lee is very excited to be setting out on a new journey that will take her across Victoria to meet, encourage and work together with other LEOS.

The way forward now out of COVID-19, we can look to be involved back in the community, getting out there and serving the community – we will be doing it for sure.

“We have to learn that how we did things before isn’t going to work now, so we will do things a bit differently.”