Southbank Melbourne©Tourism AustraliaThousands of Lions and Leos gathered in Melbourne this week for the Lions International Convention 2024 (LIC2024).
Held from 21–25 June at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), LIC2024 brought together over 10,500 participants from 170 countries and delivered substantial social and economic benefits.
Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau, said: “Preparations for this event have been underway for several years, and we are confident that our top-tier facilities, exceptional event infrastructure, and city-wide cooperation will guarantee an unforgettable experience for all attendees.”
The programme included keynote speeches, workshops, networking opportunities, and over 80 ancillary events across the city.
Lions and Leos also participated in offsite service projects, including Foodbank Victoria, where volunteers packed 10,000 kilos of food for those in need. The event began with The Parade of Nations on 22 June, celebrating the diversity and service of Lions members globally.
Tony Benbow OAM, Host Committee Chairman, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to host this year’s Lions International Convention in Melbourne, which will provide an outstanding combination of inspiration and entertainment for our members and participants, and for those interested in learning more about us. It’s also an opportunity for Victorian Lions members to experience the international scope of Lions and to showcase the positive change they are bringing to communities on a global stage.”
This is the third time the event has been held in an Australian city in 33 years, highlighting Melbourne’s convention appeal.