Dr Bob Coulthard’s Legacy

At the recent C2 District Convention, current Cabinet Secretary and recently elected 2nd VDG Cheryle Pedlar OAM shared this moving story that just needs to be told!

”In the mid 1970’s, a doctor visited my kindergarten and offered free eye screenings. That simple act of service uncovered a squint in my eye. At the time, I was more excited about the colourful pictures my mum drew for me every day on the eye patch that followed my surgery than the surgery itself—but that moment changed my life. I could see clearly. I could read. I could be just like the other kids.

Fast forward nearly 30 years, I joined the Lions Club, drawn in by the riverfront trails gifted to our town by Lions. It was a way to connect in a new town —with people, with purpose, and with my community.

Then, an opportunity arose to attend an ANZI Pacific Forum. It was inspiring, and I learned so much. But, it was what I learned in a conversation with Bob Coulthard that I will never forget. 

I learned it was he who had conducted that eye screening all those years ago.

That realisation hit me deeply. Lions had given me the gift of sight. That day, I wasn’t just a member—I became a Lion for life.

 Since then, I’ve made wonderful, lifelong friends, been moved by powerful speeches and acts of service, and shared great laughter and flowing tears.

I’ve picked up rubbish, collected pyjamas, recycled eyeglasses, co-ordinated youth activities and delivered sleeping rough packs. I’ve prepared hundreds of sets of agendas and minutes and sent thousands of emails.

I’ve planted trees and cooked sausages and onions. Together with Scott, I’ve cared for the beautiful, retired Lions Assistance Dog, Tamari. Her service to Chris is an example in itself, of the work that our organisation does.

I’ve stood to recognise the decades of service given by Lions to their communities without expectation of return or reward.

From these experiences, I’ve learned patience, how to listen, and how to lead with heart.

I watch with great pride as our faithful companions are trained to be furry ears and provide emotional and medical support.

I am inspired by our skin cancer screening team as they deliver a lifesaving project – right on our doorstep.

I watch as our Lions Eye Health Program team deliver the same service as Dr Bob did for me – continuing the mission that Helen Keller challenged all Lions to do.

I’ve seen the impact of Lions work - firsthand.

I am amazed at the work that clubs undertake across the world to relieve hunger, avert or respond to disaster, and deliver community benefits, in conjunction with our Foundations.

The first time I saw a child run across a stage with a mobility aid, her joy lit up the room. Little Amber’s smile was pure magic. The memory of her smile reminds me why we serve.

Lions are the entrepreneurs of compassion. We see a need—and we act. We transform community spirit and turn it into a mission of service. We are kind. We lead with passion, lead to serve and serve to lead.

Every Lion shares a dream: that our legacy of kindness and service endures. I believe in that dream. I believe in you.

Let us be the stars of service. Let us be the champions of kindness.

Let us make our shared dream a reality.

Together, as a team, we can shape the future of our organisation and our communities.”