The Lions Club of Toukley has been an important part of the local community for more than five decades, providing volunteer service, fundraising, and support for countless community initiatives across the Central Coast.
The origins of the club date back to late 1966, when Lion Pat Morley, President of the Lions Club of The Entrance, met with local Toukley businessman Guy Rowlands to discuss establishing a Lions club in the growing Toukley district. The idea quickly gained support from the local community, and planning began to form a new club dedicated to serving the area.
The Lions Club of Toukley was officially formed on 13 April 1967, and was chartered on 2 June 1967 with 27 founding members. Lion Guy Rowlands became the club’s Charter President, with the Lions Club of The Entrance acting as the sponsor club. The Charter Night celebration was held at the Catholic Hall in Main Road, The Entrance, with more than 235 people attending the event to mark the occasion.
Early Community Projects
From the beginning, the club quickly became involved in practical projects that benefited the local community. One of the first major undertakings took place in 1968–1969, when Lions members constructed a septic toilet block at Jenny Dixon Reserve, along with shelter sheds and a fireplace to improve the facilities available to the public.
During this period the club also played a role in strengthening the Lions network across the region. In 1969–1970, the Lions Club of Toukley sponsored the formation of the Lions Club of Wyong, helping expand Lions service throughout the Central Coast.
Supporting the Community in the 1970s
Throughout the 1970s, the club developed a strong reputation for community support and charitable service. Lions organised programs to assist underprivileged children, including providing seaside holiday experiences for young people who otherwise may not have had the opportunity.
The club also undertook significant fundraising efforts for local projects. In 1973–1974, the Lions Club of Toukley donated $2,000 toward the development of the Toukley Public Pool, contributing to an important recreational facility for the growing community.
The following year, under the leadership of President Brian Kavanagh, club members contributed an impressive 2,943 volunteer hours and raised over $10,000 for community causes, including $3,500 donated to the Cyclone Tracy Appeal following the devastation in Darwin in 1974.
Youth Programs and Community Activities
The Lions Club of Toukley has always placed a strong emphasis on youth development and community engagement. In 1977, the club helped establish its first Leo Club, providing young people with the opportunity to develop leadership skills and participate in community service activities.
During this period the club also supported important services such as the Central Coast Rescue Squad, while participating in Lions initiatives such as Miss Personality Quest, Youth Exchange, and various community fundraising events.
Throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, Lions members continued to support numerous community programs including Carols by Candlelight, Youth of the Year, community catering, and charity fundraising events.
Major Projects and Growth
In the early 1980s the club became involved in a range of significant initiatives, including the development of a Hydrotherapy Pool project and major community health programs such as diabetes testing across the district.
The club also expanded its involvement in international youth exchange, welcoming overseas students and providing opportunities for local young people to travel abroad as part of the Lions Youth Exchange Program.
During this time the club also strengthened its fundraising activities through projects such as the Paper Caper recycling initiative, which became one of the club’s long-running fundraising efforts.
Expanding Facilities and Community Impact
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Lions Club of Toukley continued to grow its presence within the community. Members worked tirelessly to secure land and establish a permanent base for club activities, eventually leading to the development of the Toukley Lions Centre, which became a focal point for many of the club’s projects.
Over the years, Lions members have supported a wide range of community initiatives including community festivals, youth programs, nursing home visits, charity appeals, and local fundraising events, while continuing to contribute thousands of volunteer hours to service projects.
Continuing the Tradition of Service
In more recent years, the club has continued to adapt and grow while maintaining its commitment to community service. In 2011, the club purchased a Lions catering food van, which has since become a familiar sight at community events across the region. The van has allowed the club to expand its fundraising activities and support many more community projects.
In 2012, a grant enabled the club to build an extension to the Lions clubhouse to house the van and support the club’s expanding activities.
A Legacy That Continues
Over the decades, the Lions Club of Toukley has contributed tens of thousands of volunteer hours and donated substantial funds to community organisations, charities, and local causes. Alongside the dedicated support of the Toukley Lions Ladies Auxiliary, the club has played an important role in strengthening the local community.
Today, the Lions Club of Toukley continues the proud tradition started by its founding members in 1967. Guided by the Lions motto “We Serve,” members remain committed to helping those in need, supporting community initiatives, and bringing people together through service and friendship.