William R. Tresise Award

This award, named after the Founder of Lions in Australia, will be presented to a Lion, Lioness, Leo or Non – Lion where the nominating Club, Zone, District or other Lions Group makes an undesignated gift of $2,000.00 to the Australian Lions Foundation in honour of that person.

As a National President of Apex in 1946, Bill had unsuccessfully proposed the establishment of the Past Apexian Association, but being a determined fellow, he decided to establish one of the American Service Clubs in Australia. Whilst in the USA in 1947 to attend the World Conference of Young Men’s Service Clubs, to which Apex was affiliated, he met first of all with the Executive Officers of the Kiwanis Association, then later with Past President Fred Smith and Melvin Jones of Lions Clubs International.

From them he gained a contract to establish Lions Clubs in Australia. With the title of the Provisional District Governor, and financial support, he returned to Australia and formed the Lions Club of Lismore on July 12th, 1947. The Lions Club of Murwillumbah followed in August 1948, but it was not until March 19th, 1952 that the third Club, the Lions Club of Melbourne, was established.

Bill, who was in the timber hardware business, was active in politics, particularly at local government level. His eloquence and charm left an indelible impression on all with whom he came into contact. He served as District Governor in 1962 – 63. William R Tresise is recognised as the Founder of Lions in Australia. In honour of this, the Australian Lions Foundation has instituted the William R Tresise Fellowship in recognition of a once – off donation of $2,000.00 to the Foundation.

The gift must be denoted as a “William R Tresise Fellow Award” contribution, at the time it is made.

The William R Tresise Fellow Award can be paid for in two equal instalments over two years. Each payment must specify this award. Payment may be made for recipients yet unnamed. Upon final donation and submission of the Application Form, the Award will be prepared and forwarded.

The nominated recipient honoured as a William R Tresise Fellow, will receive an appropriately inscribed wall plaque together with a lapel badge.

Gifts to the Australian Lions Foundation may be paid from your Project, Activity or Community Service Accounts.

For further information contact the Secretary or any Trustee of the Australian Lions Foundation.

Click here for previous winners of the William R. Tresise Award