2014/15
Shay O'Connor was the new President for 2014/15 with Des Power and Dermot Arnold staying on as Secretary and Treasurer respectively.
The September meeting was attended by the incoming District Governor, Pat O'Brien, who was warmly welcomed by the President. The DG in turn congratulated the Club on the level of activities undertaken. He suggested that we consider forwarding material for inclusion in the DG Newsletter. He then presented long service awards to Phyllis Davis, John Hanlon, John O'Brien, John Dwane, John Coade, Paul Clerkin and Brian McNally.
During the summer a record number took part in the Cunnigar Crossing, organised by the Hillwalking Club, with over €900 being raised for Club funds.
Members were informed that the Trabolgan holiday project was in danger of being discontinued due to falling numbers. Dungarvan had supported this since inception. A renewed effort was requested from all clubs. This had the desired effect with 660 attending overall, 20 of them coming from our Club. These numbers were added to during the week as day visitors from Dunabbey and 14 from the Deise Daycare Centre were welcomed. The overall cost to the Club was under €3,000 and this was agreed to have been excellent use of Club funds.
The Christmas Appeal was again a great success, bringing in over €60,000 for only the third time. The President displayed military precision by the superb manner in which he organised the collection of auction items.
Other happenings early in the year included a members' social evening, held in the Sailing Club and attended by 41 members and partners, with a talk on the town's maritime history given by John Young, local historian. In November a mass was held for deceased members.
The Christmas Swim was held as usual but revenue from this source had been steadily declining. The traditional cards were no longer being used to the same extent, with just six having been received this year. Most money is now raised from a bucket collection on the day. Having provided the very welcome soup for 25 years, Johnny Lynch advised that he would be stepping down from the role. A gift to him was approved by members in recognition of his exceptional service over these years.
A significant change to our major fundraiser, Jigs & Reels, was made when a move to the Community Centre in Cappoquin was approved by members. This proved to be a resounding success as we now had a purpose-built entertainment venue with a full stage and greatly increased seating capacity. It also broadened our reach into the western part of our territory. Almost 600 people attended helping to achieve a net profit of over €11,000.
A move was made also to formalise the approval of our financial reports with the final sign-off coming from accountant John White. A policy on cash-handling was presented to members, which required two members to verify and sign for all sums raised at events.
The Club took part in the St Patrick's Day Parade, with some 19 Lions walking and carrying boards displaying the various activities of the Club, thus reinforcing the message to the public of the work that we do.
Some members attended the District Convention, held in Waterford, which was considered very successful.
The President initiated a review of Club activities, asking Tom McCabe to chair an Innovation Committee. Tom later made a comprehensive presentation to members. Arising from this, new procedures around the collection of annual subs were put in place. In addition, a project team on recruitment was set up under Ray McAndrew and consideration was given to consider new events. Out of this, it was agreed to host Diabetes Screening at Dungarvan Agricultural Show. This was a great success with over 200 people being tested.
Throughout the year the normal activities continued with monthly Nursing Home visits taking place and numerous requests for financial aid being positively responded to.
Yet another successful year for the Club.
