Thursday also saw the end of an era with Lionesses from around Australia gathering at the 65 Northbourne restaurant for their final function, as Lioness clubs worldwide are being scrapped as separate entities.

A decision by Lions Club International means Lioness clubs either have to join existing Lions clubs or be disbanded by June.

The Lionesses of Multiple District 201, which covers members across Australia as well as Papua New Guinea and Norfolk Island, gathered at the Civic restaurant to mark service to their communities from 1976 to 2021.

Queensland member Jo Lynes said it was a bittersweet occasion.

Many members wanted to continue contributing but were elderly. One of her local clubs had an average age of 91, so would be disbanding.

"It's also a celebration of 45 years of service and it was a lovely afternoon," she said.

The national Lions convention opens in Canberra on Friday and continues until Monday.

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