About Us
Our Club History
The Lions Club of Goolwa was founded following a public meeting held in the Goolwa RSL clubrooms on May 24, 1979. Just a few months later, on September 1, the club was officially chartered during a celebration at Centenary Hall, where 22 founding members joined more than 160 guests to mark the occasion. The charter was presented by District Governor Bob Korotkoff to Charter President Doug Braithwaite. The newly formed club was proudly sponsored by the Lions Club of the South Coast—today known as the Lions Club of Victor Harbor and Port Elliot.
Since those early days, the Goolwa Lions have played an active and enduring role in the life of our region. Major initiatives over the years have included support for river festivals, seasonal celebrations, Save Sight campaigns, the construction of public facilities, and the remarkable 1988 Murray-Darling Basin event, which brought together more than 30,000 children from across the region.
Ongoing service remains the heart of our club’s mission. We continue to publish and distribute the Goolwa Community Newsletter, and our beloved Lions Book Market—now operating as The Book Den—serves not only as a major fundraiser but also as a much-loved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Across the decades, our membership has steadily grown, and today we’re proud to have more than 30 active members. The Goolwa Lions Club is recognised for its welcoming atmosphere, strong community ties, and dedication to making a meaningful difference.
We remain committed to the Lions motto: “We Serve.” It guides everything we do
2025/26 Club Executive Members

President
Ron Sargent OAM
| President | Ron Sargent OAM |
| 1st Vice President | Lyn Clayson |
| 2nd Vice President | David Surman |
| Secretary | Carolyn Hart |
| Treasurer | Greg Johnston |
| Membership | Geoff Clapp |
| Marketing | Margaret MacDonald |
| Program Coordinator | Leigh Blacket |
| Director | Brian Caire |
| Director | Murray March |
We are the Lions.
We meet the needs of our local communities and the world.
Our 1.4 million men and women in 236 countries and geographic areas, conduct vision and health screenings, build parks, support eye hospitals, award scholarships, assist youth, provide help in time of disaster and much more.
Providing Disaster Relief
In times of disaster, Lions meet immediate needs such as food, water and shelter with funds from LCIF. For larger-scale disasters, the Foundation remains committed to helping communities rebuild into the future.
Meeting Humanitarian Needs
LCIF is a variety of international humanitarian efforts, such as supporting the construction of homes for the disabled, providing visions screenings to Special Olympics athletes, and combating measles.
See the impact that our projects make here.