Newbridge Kildare Lions Club celebrates 50th anniversary

Newbridge Kildare Lions Club will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a Golden Jubilee event at the Keadeen Hotel in Co Kildare on Friday, 6 November 2026, recognising five decades of voluntary service to the local community.

Founded in 1976, the club has supported individuals, families and charitable initiatives throughout Newbridge and County Kildare through the dedication of its volunteer members.

The celebration will remember founding Charter President, the late Joe O’Loughlin, and his wife Rose, whose generosity and hospitality provided the club with a welcoming home at the Keadeen Hotel. Joe received the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship, while Rose was honoured with the same recognition in 2024 for her contribution to humanitarian service.

The anniversary also marks a special family milestone for current Club President Ger Melia, whose father, Mattie Melia, was among the founding Charter Members in 1976.

Speaking ahead of the celebration, Ger said the occasion was an opportunity to honour those who established the club while looking towards its future.

She highlighted ongoing initiatives including the annual Christmas Food Appeal, Sponsored School Walk, CPR training, community walks and other fundraising activities that continue to benefit local people.

“It is a privilege to serve as President during this milestone year,” she said, adding that the club hoped to welcome new generations of volunteers and respond to the changing needs of the community.

The club is delighted to welcome Frances Fitzgerald, a Newbridge native, as guest speaker. Ms Fitzgerald is a former Government Minister and Member of the European Parliament, and a member of the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council.

The Golden Jubilee will recognise the contributions of past presidents, founding members, volunteers and supporters whose commitment has sustained the organisation over five decades.

As Newbridge Kildare Lions Club celebrates this landmark anniversary, its members remain committed to building on the founders’ legacy and continuing their tradition of friendship, community spirit and service to others.