With the ever-increasing number of catering projects the Club is being invited to handle, mostly involving the BBQ trailer, matched against the fact that only Lions Robin and Secretary Ray have the required towing facilities on their vehicles, a new approach to transporting the equipment became an urgent consideration.
Thus, with the blessing of the Executive Group, Lions Robin and Dean set about the task of locating a light vehicle, preferably a van that would fit the bill and would enable a larger number of our members to drive it. Naturally, it would have to be affordable to the Club, and hopefully, represent value for money.
Subsequently, Lion Dean located such a vehicle at the Morrell’s Car and Commercials Port Road dealership, and called on Lion Robin to check it out. Being satisfied that it met all requirements, was in excellent condition, and was available for the realistic cost of $10,500; on April 11th Lion Dean purchased the Mitsubishi Express Van on behalf of the Club.
For those of a technical mind, the 2005 vehicle is a 4 cylinder van using unleaded petrol, with a 5-speed gear box. It affords power steering; has an adjustable wheel; air-conditioning; has a 2 litre EF1 engine; and provides a good turning circle via its short wheel base. Other features include a Clarion radio; new internal shelving, subsequently fitted within the body of the van; both rear and side door openings; plus a new Fiamma F45 (3 metre awning) fitted to the passenger side.
While the van has already been in action with the Club\’s recent Blanket delivery project, all that remains to complete the package is the proposed sign-writing, identifying that it belongs to the Lions Club of the City of Adelaide. This is currently being achieved.
The Executive Group is also desirous, for those staffing the van at functions, to project an attractive C.O.A. Lions Club uniformed appearance. Associated costs covering the purchase of 6 aprons and 6 red/gold caps are currently being sourced.
It was agreed that a fire extinguisher and First Aid kit were also necessary safety items which must be purchased.
We now look forward to seeing the new van complete with Lions and Club logos!
