November 4, 2023
Blackbutt-Benarkin Lions Club members went all out last weekend to impress visitors attending the 2023 District 201 Q4 convention.
It’s the first time Blackbutt has hosted the three-day event, which attracted hundreds of members from across central and southern Queensland, as well as visitors from interstate.
The guests enjoyed dinner and live music on Friday night, followed by the official opening on Saturday morning at Blackbutt Memorial Hall.
The traditional flag ceremony had a unique twist, with the banners being delivered to the hall on horseback by members of the Blackbutt & District Pony Club.
They were then carried to the stage in a more formal fashion by Lions Club members.
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington and South Burnett Acting Mayor Gavin Jones were invited to open the official proceedings, after a rousing rendition of Advance Australia Fair from stage by the Blackbutt Singers.
Mrs Frecklington thanked the Lions for their efforts in helping South Burnett farmers at their recent hay run.
“I know the principle of Lions is, effectively, to help communities and that is exactly what you have done here,” Mrs Frecklington said.
She said community clubs give so much back to communities, but none more so than in rural and regional Queensland.
The formal part of the conference began after the opening ceremony, with guest speakers providing updates on various Lions Club projects and the 2024 International Convention (which will be held in Melbourne).
On Saturday afternoon, delegates were invited to watch a woodchopping display by local axemen at the nearby Blackbutt Showgrounds.
Then on Saturday night, the Lions and Leos enjoyed a dinner and ball “under the stars”, also at the showgrounds.
District 201 Q4 stretches from Marlborough in the north to Winton in the west; Blackbutt-Benarkin is on the southern edge.
Kingaroy, Wondai, Murgon and Goomeri Lions clubs are all members of District 201 Q4.
