Saturday, May 17, 2014

30/4/2014 - 13/5/2015 Adventure to Cape Town, Johannesburg & Standerton.  CP Lynda and President Jessie joined members of LC PJ Metro for an adventure to South Africa at the same time, join in the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of their sister club, Lions Club Standerton, South Africa.  CP Lynda and spouse were hosted by the President of LC Standerton Arthur Baines and lady Hazel while me and President Eric were hosted by DG Malcolm Johnston and lady Frances for 5 days.  We arrived Standerton on their Election Day and were warmly welcome by at least 15 members and adjourned to Lion Peter's residence for introductory and sorting ourselves to the respective families.  We had a day outing to Clarens, an artists' haven with many well-known artists either living in or frequenting the village, with many art galleries scattered around the village square and the town. The tranquil village ambience combined with scenic views and a mild climate makes Clarens a popular getaway for city dwellers.  After lunch we drove a circuit into Golden Gate Highlands National Park before headed back to Standerton.  The next door  we had our first experience in lawn bowling for almost 4 hours followed by lunch prepared by everyone at the lawn club.  Before we adjourned we had a "spider" roll off and raised RAD1,020 for the National Association for the Blind Bowlers.  Their Fellowship Dinner was held at their Clubhouse, were we were traditionally dress with simple dinner.  The started their evening with the presentation of a motorized wheel chair followed by exchanging bannerettes and presentation of the blink-blink Lions pin sponsored by Dato Neo.   DG Malcolm presented his personal bannerette, cup, tea spoon and badge to all of us.

The LC of Standerton 40th Anniversary was held at the Club with a cosy group of 80 pax with delicious main course and fabulous entertainment by their local singer.  Both sister club exchanged gifts, from PJ Metro President Eric presented a Petronas twin tower while the Standerton President Arthur presented a beautiful frame beaded Lions Logo. 

On the 4th day we were taken to the farm of Peter & Tracy Armitage 5 Star Farming at Gladde Drift.  Here we learnt how they bred exotic birds, farming corn, soya beans and saw a few mega machines worth millions.

All good things must come to an end and we had to bid farewell with 10 members sending us off at Johannesburg International Airport.  Both Lynda and I had one of the most memorable and enjoyable trip together with Lions David and Shirley, Chwee and Adelene, Dato John and Datin Grace and we are all ready to reciprocate when they visit.

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