Lions Australia Welcomes International President Fabrício Oliveira to Sydney

Lions Clubs International President (IP) Fabrício Oliveira recently visited Sydney, making a lasting impression during his whirlwind tour in September.

Joined by his wife Amariles and a language translator, the IP’s visit with Lions from across Sydney kicked off with a glamorous dinner and fireworks at Darling Harbour.

The following morning, he was met with a lively reception alongside Lions Australia Council Chair David Horne, PID Tony Benbow OAM, and District 201N5 District Governor Genevieve Jeny to talk of his goals, aspirations and plans for his year as International President.

The IP was then invited as a special guest to a high-tea fundraiser supporting the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF), to boost vital research for children with cancer.

The Lions Club of Sydney Waratah and Lions Club of Sydney Defence and Emergency Services hosted the event and successfully raised funds for the ALCCRF, while offering a delicious menu and engaging activities like a lucky door prize, Bingo and raffle draw.

IP Oliveira also spent time with an Australian Lions Hearing Dog and its owner in Hornsby. The IP was impressed by the amazing service program that trains dogs to assist the hearing impaired.

The day ended in style with a Harbour Cruise alongside Lions members and the IP used the opportunity to thank a number of Lions for their service.

On Monday, IP Oliveira met Australia’s native wildlife at Featherdale Wildlife Park where he got up close and personal to Lawson the koala, before joining the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), a charity providing life-changing mobility devices to children.

During his visit to the Neurological and Physical Abilitation Centre (NAPA), IP Oliveira witnessed firsthand the impact of ALCMF’s work as young Deedee was fitted for her new mobility trike.

He then visited CaringKids, a charity delivering joy boxes to children caring for family members living with a disability or illness. These young carers provide care for family members experiencing physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, mental illness, terminal illness and chronic illness.

President Fabricio presented CaringKids founder Margaret Skagias with the International President Bannerette, and PDG Elvio Munzone OAM of Lugano Lions received the International President ‘Make Your Mark’ Crystal Award.

All Lions and friends attending were honored with the International President pin for their service to young carers. President Fabricio offered inspiring words, wishing continued success in supporting children with caring responsibilities.

After concluding his trip with a heartwarming reminder of Lions Australia’s dedication to community support, IP Oliveira made a final trip to the airport to say farewell and then was off to his next international destination.

Thanks for visiting Australia, President Fabricio and well done to our Lions who ensured the IP had a wonderful time in Sydney!