The article “Making a Real Difference: How The Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation Are Changing Lives in the Fight Against Diabetes” was originally published by the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and is republished here with their permission.
For 24 years, a group of dedicated volunteers has been quietly making a massive impact in the Hunter New England region’s fight against diabetes. The Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation has, to date, donated around $680,000 to HMRI, helping tackle a disease that affects one in eight people in our area.
These volunteers, known as Lions, are everyday people who’ve decided to roll up their sleeves to donate their time, money and effort to make a difference. Foundation trustee Geoff Boyton knows firsthand why this work matters. Back in 2004, he faced his own health battle with prostate cancer.
“Medical research is certainly important to me as a cancer survivor,” Geoff explains. “Without the research that’s gone into prostate cancer treatment, I probably wouldn’t be here today.”
For Secretary Stephen Box, the fight against diabetes hits even closer to home. He carries the memory of losing his cousin who died on his 12th birthday from diabetes back in the early 1950s, when treatment options were virtually non-existent.
“There just wasn’t anything they could really do back then,” Stephen recalls. “Hopefully one day we’ll be able to work out a way to stop people getting diabetes in the first place.”
So why did Lions Diabetes Australia decide to support HMRI? For Stephen, the reason was simple.
“We wanted to support a local research organisation because without research diabetes wouldn’t be able to be cured.”
The foundation itself has an interesting origin story. It was born in 1992 from leftover funds from the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake Appeal – a perfect example of how communities can turn tragedy into hope. Over three decades, they’ve donated more than $1 million to programmes focused on diabetes research, education, and awareness.
“Research is the main thing we focus on because research helps everybody,” says foundation chairman Jim Cowburn, who’s been with the organisation since day one.
Jim has diabetes himself and has witnessed incredible changes in treatment over the years. “I’ve got a little sensor that tells me whether my levels are high or low,” he says. “That sort of thing wasn’t heard of 30 years ago.”
The foundation’s focus over the last few years has been supporting the Diabetes Alliance Plus Programme (DAP+), receiving over $100,000 in grants. The programme brings diabetes specialists directly to rural and remote communities throughout the Hunter New England region. Instead of expecting country patients to travel hours for specialist care, the experts come to them.
The Lions’ funding has been crucial in making this happen, with their grants helping to fund a PhD scholarship that delivers nutrition and exercise components of the programme.
The foundation recently awarded a new grant to expand the DAP+ team’s work, enabling them to address kidney disease associated with diabetes throughout the Hunter New England region.
This isn’t just about money – it’s about bridging the gap between city and country healthcare, giving people living in remote areas access to the same quality of diabetes care as those in metropolitan areas, which means better health outcomes and improved quality of life.
What started as earthquake relief funds has evolved into a powerful force for change, proving that when ordinary people come together with a shared purpose, extraordinary things can happen.
How The Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation Is Changing Lives
/in OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceThe article “Making a Real Difference: How The Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation Are Changing Lives in the Fight Against Diabetes” was originally published by the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and is republished here with their permission.
For 24 years, a group of dedicated volunteers has been quietly making a massive impact in the Hunter New England region’s fight against diabetes. The Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation has, to date, donated around $680,000 to HMRI, helping tackle a disease that affects one in eight people in our area.
These volunteers, known as Lions, are everyday people who’ve decided to roll up their sleeves to donate their time, money and effort to make a difference. Foundation trustee Geoff Boyton knows firsthand why this work matters. Back in 2004, he faced his own health battle with prostate cancer.
“Medical research is certainly important to me as a cancer survivor,” Geoff explains. “Without the research that’s gone into prostate cancer treatment, I probably wouldn’t be here today.”
For Secretary Stephen Box, the fight against diabetes hits even closer to home. He carries the memory of losing his cousin who died on his 12th birthday from diabetes back in the early 1950s, when treatment options were virtually non-existent.
“There just wasn’t anything they could really do back then,” Stephen recalls. “Hopefully one day we’ll be able to work out a way to stop people getting diabetes in the first place.”
So why did Lions Diabetes Australia decide to support HMRI? For Stephen, the reason was simple.
“We wanted to support a local research organisation because without research diabetes wouldn’t be able to be cured.”
The foundation itself has an interesting origin story. It was born in 1992 from leftover funds from the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake Appeal – a perfect example of how communities can turn tragedy into hope. Over three decades, they’ve donated more than $1 million to programmes focused on diabetes research, education, and awareness.
“Research is the main thing we focus on because research helps everybody,” says foundation chairman Jim Cowburn, who’s been with the organisation since day one.
Jim has diabetes himself and has witnessed incredible changes in treatment over the years. “I’ve got a little sensor that tells me whether my levels are high or low,” he says. “That sort of thing wasn’t heard of 30 years ago.”
The foundation’s focus over the last few years has been supporting the Diabetes Alliance Plus Programme (DAP+), receiving over $100,000 in grants. The programme brings diabetes specialists directly to rural and remote communities throughout the Hunter New England region. Instead of expecting country patients to travel hours for specialist care, the experts come to them.
The Lions’ funding has been crucial in making this happen, with their grants helping to fund a PhD scholarship that delivers nutrition and exercise components of the programme.
The foundation recently awarded a new grant to expand the DAP+ team’s work, enabling them to address kidney disease associated with diabetes throughout the Hunter New England region.
This isn’t just about money – it’s about bridging the gap between city and country healthcare, giving people living in remote areas access to the same quality of diabetes care as those in metropolitan areas, which means better health outcomes and improved quality of life.
What started as earthquake relief funds has evolved into a powerful force for change, proving that when ordinary people come together with a shared purpose, extraordinary things can happen.
Young Queensland artist named national winner of Lions International Peace Poster Competition
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaA powerful message of unity and hope from a young Queensland artist is being celebrated nationwide.
Zoey Liu, sponsored by the Lions Club of Rochedale Springwood (QLD), has been named the 2025 Lions International Peace Poster National Winner, selected from 18 district-winning entries from across Australia.
Inspired by the theme “Together as One”, Zoey’s artwork stood out for its creativity, emotional depth and strong message of compassion.
Her poster reflects the belief that peace is built through understanding, kindness and connection- values that resonate strongly in today’s world.
At a time when communities across Australia are reflecting on the importance of peace and looking out for one another, Zoey’s artwork offers a hopeful reminder of the role young people can play in shaping a more inclusive future.
The Lions International Peace Poster Competition is one of Lions’ longest-running youth initiatives, encouraging children aged 11 to 13 to express their vision of peace through art.
Each year, thousands of students worldwide take part, supported by local Lions Clubs working closely with schools and families to nurture creativity and positive global citizenship.
Lions Australia has proudly supported the Peace Poster Competition for decades as part of its broader commitment to empowering young people, fostering leadership and giving youth a platform to share their voices on issues that matter.
“Programs like the Peace Poster Competition show the incredible insight and empathy young people bring to the conversation about peace,” said Lions Australia Peace Poster Chair Lorraine McKenzie.
“Zoey’s artwork is a wonderful example of how creativity can inspire connection and understanding across generations and communities.”
Zoey’s winning poster has now been sent to Chicago to represent Australia in the international judging stage, where it will compete with entries from around the world.
Lions Support Flood and Fire Affected Communities
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaAs devastating bushfires continue to impact communities in Victoria and widespread flooding links to a recent cyclone causes damage across Queensland, Lions volunteers are mobilising to support communities in crisis.
From assisting emergency services and supporting clean-up efforts to providing meals, supplies and practical assistance, Lions members are once again stepping up where they are needed most.
Members of the Seymour Goulburn Lions Club providing meals at the Seymour Relief Centre for the community and emergency services.
Lions Australia is calling on the public to support recovery efforts by donating to the Australian Lions Foundation National Disaster Appeal.
“When disaster strikes, Lions volunteers respond quickly and compassionately to support their communities,” said Lions Australia CEO Rob Oerlemans.
“Our volunteers live in the communities they serve. They know what’s needed, they know who needs help, and through the Australian Lions Foundation, we’re able to get support to people quickly and directly.”
Lions’ response to national disasters is further strengthened through emergency disaster relief grants from Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), which enable local Lions Clubs to deliver immediate, practical assistance on the ground.
These grants support urgent needs such as emergency food and water, blankets, hygiene kits and essential supplies, as well as meals for volunteer firefighters and emergency service personnel.
Most recently Lions in Koolewong, Bulahdelah and Muswellbrook were provided with an emergency grant to support their communities impacted by fires at the end of last year.
By combining global grant support with strong local knowledge, Lions are able to respond swiftly while remaining committed to helping communities through the long recovery process.
Funds raised through the Australian Lions Foundation National Disaster Appeal are distributed to Lions Clubs on the ground, enabling them to provide both immediate relief such as food and fuel vouchers and essential household items and longer-term recovery support.
“This is why Lions is effective in times of disaster,” said Rob Oerlemans. “We combine a national volunteer network with deep local connections, ensuring donations go exactly where they’re needed most.”
Lions has a long history of supporting communities through disasters, including the Black Summer bushfires and major flooding events across Australia in recent years.
Over $4.6 million was raised and distributed in the 2019/2020 Australian Lions Foundation National Bushfire Appeal.
Importantly, Lions volunteers remain alongside communities long after the immediate emergency has passed, supporting recovery and rebuilding for as long as it takes once the smoke clears or water recedes.
“We know many Australians want to help but aren’t sure how,” said Rob Oerlemans. “The most effective way to make a real difference right now is by donating to the Australian Lions Foundation National Disaster Appeal. Every dollar helps Lions volunteers support families and communities doing it tough.”
Would you like to help? Click here to make a donation and support communities impacted by fires and floods.
Lions Unveil Lifesaving Mobile Skin Check Van in Tasmania
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaLions Australia marked National Skin Cancer Awareness Week (16-22 November) with a growing network of Lions Mobile Skin Cancer Screening Vans operating across Australia, helping ensure regional and remote communities have access to lifesaving early detection.
For decades, Lions volunteers have delivered free or low-cost skin checks through mobile units that travel thousands of kilometres each year. Vans currently operate in Western Australia, South Australia/Northern Territory, and Victoria, with tens of thousands of Australians screened through these volunteer-led programs.
These services are especially critical in rural areas where access to dermatologists is limited and wait times can be long.
Building on this national legacy, Lions Australia recently celebrated the successful launch of the Tasmanian Lions Skin Cancer Screening Van, unveiled at the 2025 Lions District Convention in Port Sorell.
The new van, purchased by the Tasmanian Lions Skin Cancer Foundation, will begin servicing communities early next year, delivering full-body skin checks across the state and improving access to early detection for Tasmanians in rural and remote areas.
To raise awareness for the launch, Lions volunteer and endurance runner Sari-Elle Kraemer completed an extraordinary 160 km run from Smithton to Port Sorell, drawing exceptional community support along the way.
Local Lions Clubs came out in force, and in a uniquely Tasmanian show of spirit and support from the regional areas, a tractor convoy from the Tasmanian Tractor Trekkers travelled alongside sections of her run.
Tasmanian Lions Skin Cancer Screening Foundation Chair Richard Cochrane said the launch exceeded all expectations.
“The response to the launch of the Tasmanian van was truly incredible – Lions Clubs, other community groups and the general public all came out in force. We had so many conversations with families, farmers, retirees and young people, all sharing personal stories and reinforcing why this service matters so much. Funds raised from the launch are going directly towards the operating costs of the new van. The van is almost complete and will be out on the road and in rural and remote communities early 2026, delivering the lifesaving checks people have told us they urgently need,” says Richard Cochrane.
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with two in three Australians diagnosed in their lifetime. Lions Australia is encouraging communities to take proactive steps this Skin Cancer Awareness Week: book a skin check, protect yourself in the sun, and support the mobile screening vans that bring vital services to local towns, farms and regional centres.
With melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers placing a growing burden on the health system, Lions Australia encourages all Australians to:
Lions hope to eventually have a mobile screening unit in every state of Australia.
For more information on Lions Australia’s latest skin cancer screening van in Tasmania, click here.
For other locations, click on your state below:
VIC
SA/NT
WA
Lions Fund Tomaree Hospital Storage Facility
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceNot long ago, the staff at the Tomaree Community Hospital had to struggle with a small and cluttered storeroom, which often made it challenging to keep track of what supplies they had. But thanks to the Lions Club of Soldiers Point they now have a newly upgraded storage and retrieval facility to keep their supplies organised.
Club President James Enraght-Moony and Club Director Brad Rostron toured the new facility with Health Service Manager/Director of Nursing Hari Nair and Nurse Unit Manager Adrienne Cook.
“This upgrade will make a meaningful difference, enabling our team to manage and maintain our stores and essential supplies more effectively. Your contribution plays a vital role in enhancing our operational efficiency and supporting the care we provide to our community.” said Hari Nair.
The funds for the upgraded facility were made possible through a grant from the Australian Lions Foundation, which was organised by the Soldiers Point Lions Club, in partnership with the Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary.
Located in Nelson Bay, New South Wales, the Tomaree Community Hospital serves the Port Stephens area, offering emergency and outpatient services, as well as aged care and specialised medical support.
This isn’t the only project the Lions Club of Soldiers Point has taken on to support the hospital. In August this year, they held a Black and White Night Charity Dinner to raise funds to purchase shower trolleys for non-ambulatory patients.
It’s this kind of public outreach and service that make Lions an integral part of the larger community.
Operation Formal Wear Helps Local Students Through a Costly Season
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaWith another formal season now behind us, many families are reflecting on just how expensive end-of-year celebrations can be – especially when they collide with the pressures of Christmas.
For some young people, the rising cost of clothing and accessories means the excitement of attending a school formal can quickly turn into stress.
This year, the Canberra Lake Tuggeranong Lions Club once again stepped in to ease that burden through Operation Formal Wear, a project that provides free formal outfits to graduating students in Years 6, 10 and 12, as well as teachers.
With the help of volunteers from the Lions Club of Canberra Valley, the initiative has helped hundreds of students feel confident, supported and ready to celebrate their milestone moments.
A Successful 2025 Season
The 2025 shopping weekend was a huge success, with students browsing through donated dresses, suits, shoes, ties, bags and jewellery – selecting the perfect outfit at no cost.
Families shared their appreciation for the relief this brought, especially as it came during one of the most financially challenging times of the year.
The Lions volunteers say it’s moments like these – tears of joy, excited smiles, and heartfelt gratitude – that remind them why Operation Formal Wear is so important.
This year, 1,325 items of formal wear and accessories were donated. In total, 289 students, teachers and community members received what they needed for their special events. With formal outfits often costing around $500 per person, the program helped local families save an estimated $144,500.
Continuing the Mission in 2026
Although this year’s event has wrapped up, the need remains – and the Lake Tuggeranong Lions are committed to continuing Operation Formal Wear in 2026.
To ensure next year’s shopping weekend is just as successful, the club is inviting the community to support the project by donating:
Formal dresses
Suits and jackets
Shoes
Ties and accessories
Bags, clutches and jewellery
They are also seeking new drop-off points across Canberra, along with volunteers interested in helping set up, pack down and assist students during the 2026 event.
How to Support or Get Involved
Local businesses willing to serve as donation sites, community members wishing to donate quality formalwear, and volunteers eager to support next year’s shopping weekend are encouraged to get in touch.
Lion Yvette Rydman ready for her interview with Valley FM about Operation Formal Wear.
Follow the project at the Operation Formal Wear Facebook group.
For enquiries, interviews or offers of support, contact:
Yvette Rydman – 0490 097 994 | lionyvette@myyahoo.com
As this year has shown, a simple outfit can make a world of difference. With continued community support, Lions will ensure even more students step into their special night feeling proud, confident and included.
Lions Deliver Lifesaving Respiratory Support to Wollongong Hospital
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaLions Clubs from across the Illawarra have joined forces to deliver lifesaving respiratory equipment to Wollongong Hospital, strengthening critical care capacity for patients in need.
Members from the Lions Clubs of Woonona, Corrimal, Wollongong, Figtree, Dapto, Oak Flats and Shellharbour gathered with hospital staff and community leaders to mark the arrival of five new SV70 Non-Invasive Ventilators and a Central Monitoring System for the hospital’s Respiratory Ward.
This major contribution – made possible through combined club fundraising efforts and generous grants from both the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) and the Australian Lions Foundation (ALF) – is set to enhance the hospital’s ability to treat patients requiring urgent breathing support.
The equipment will help save lives, improve patient outcomes, and ease the pressure on frontline respiratory teams.
Each ventilator cost $35,316, and with the addition of the Central Monitoring System and necessary electrical upgrades, the total project value reached $221,121.62 – a significant investment in the health and wellbeing of the local community.
An official handover event was held on Wednesday the 12th of November 2025, providing an opportunity for Lions, clinical staff, and local leaders to see firsthand the impact of this collaborative effort.
This project is a powerful example of Lions working together to support local health services and make a lasting difference in their community.
Axel’s New Tracker Tricycle!
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceAxel, an energetic and determined 11-year-old from Belrose, is breaking through barriers with his new Tracker adaptive tricycle made possible by the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation!
Diagnosed with Mowat-Wilson syndrome, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy, Axel faces challenges getting around, especially outdoors. While he can move about easily indoors with supervision, navigating his neighbourhood safely has been a struggle.
Balance issues and limited endurance keep Axel from going far without help. Despite these challenges, Axel’s spirit remains unbreakable. And his new tricycle is about to open up a world of possibilities.
The Tracker tricycle will enable Axel to join family and friends for group activities and outings. It will also support his physiotherapy goals. Regular riding will help improve his motor skills and increase his leg strength.
And, more importantly, it will help him build the confidence needed to explore the world around him. This amazing piece of equipment is a game-changer for Axel. It will give him the independence he’s been waiting for!
Fitted for Fun
Axel arrived for his fitting on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the NAPA Centre Sydney. He got his first taste of freedom while surrounded by a heartwarming group of supporters.
Watched by his beaming mum, Lesley, Axel’s physiotherapist and equipment technician performed their mechanical magic to ensure his tricycle fit him perfectly.
The joyful event was attended by Lions Greg English (ALCMF Chairman District 201N5), Mike Warner (President of Lugarno), Ken Packham (Lugarno), M. Veena Etcell (President of St Ives), and Mike Hurwitz (Berowra).
The tricycle was made possible by generous donations to ALCMF, with contributions from Lions Clubs in District 201N5.
Axel had a blast riding his new tricycle around the training room. His face was lit up with an infectious smile as he took it all in. With so many kind-hearted Lions present, it was a day Axel and his family will never forget!
About the ALCMF
The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF) provides mobility aids for children who cannot walk without assistance. Their work is funded by donations raised by Lions Clubs and corporate sponsors. The ALCMF works closely with each child’s physiotherapist to figure out what kind of device will give them the best support to move around freely.
A range of walkers and cycles are available for children up to 18 years of age. Each one is customised to cover every level of disability. Determining the correct device involves reviewing each child’s unique needs. The goal is to provide balance and support whilst still being able to step or pedal forward.
Mobility Brings a Brighter Future
Axel’s mum couldn’t be more grateful for this life-changing support. This new tricycle represents more than just a mode of transport—it’s a symbol of Axel’s growing independence and the exciting adventures that lie ahead.
The future is looking brighter than ever for Axel! It’s filled with endless opportunities for fun, freedom, and connection, thanks to the ALCMF and Lions!
Newcastle Lions Donate Scalp Cooling Machine for Chemotherapy Patients
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaCancer patients in Newcastle will have greater access to scalp cooling technology, thanks to a major fundraising effort led by the Lions Club of Newcastle and supported by Lions Clubs across the Hunter.
The Lions Club donated a $49,950 Paxman Scalp Cooling System to Calvary Mater Newcastle, helping chemotherapy patients significantly reduce hair loss during treatment. This donation forms part of more than $61,000 raised by Lions, which will also help fund essential accessories for the machine.
“Hair loss is one of the most feared side effects of chemotherapy, and also makes a personal cancer journey a very public one”, said Geoff Boyton, Project Co-ordinator, Lions Club of Newcastle.
“This machine gives patients the dignity of choice and helps support their emotional and physical wellbeing while undergoing cancer treatment.”
L-to-R: Front Row – Dr Ralph Gourlay, Director of Medical Services, Lion Geoff Boyton, Lion John Mulhearn, Lion Kieran Gregory and Lion Stephen Box. Back Row – Marissa Ledlin, Operations Manager – Cancer Services; Catherine Johnson, Medical Oncology Clinical Nurse Consultant, Lion Wayne Kirk; and Megan Kepreotis, Outpatient Services Nurse Unit Manager
Calvary Mater Newcastle is the major cancer care centre in the Hunter, with its Day Treatment Centre providing about 15,000 treatments annually.
The Day Treatment Centre will now have three scalp cooling machines, with each machine being able to treat two patients at any one time.
Funding for the project has been made possible through a collaboration of Lions at every level with Lions Club of Newcastle providing $10,000, other Lions Clubs in the zone pledging $9,950, a $15,000 grant provided by Australian Lions Foundation and $15,000 from NSW-ACT Lions Sight and Health Foundation.
“Community service is at the heart of what Lions do, and this project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when clubs work together with hospitals and foundations for the good of local families,” said Wayne Kirk, President, Newcastle Lions Club.
Calvary Mater Newcastle Cancer Services Operations Manager, Marissa Ledlin, thanked Lions Australia for the continued support.
“This equipment makes a tangible difference for patients navigating one of the hardest times of their lives. It empowers them to make a choice about their treatment and what is happening to them, helping them feel more in control during what can be an emotional and overwhelming time,” Ms Ledlin said.
“It is wonderful that we will now be able to provide this important treatment to more of our patients. We are deeply grateful to Lions for making this possible.”
L to R: Catherine Johnson, Medical Oncology Clinical Nurse Consultant, Dr Janine Lombard, Director of Medical Oncology, Calvary Mater Newcastle and Lion Geoff Boyton.
Scalp cooling technology alleviates damage to the hair follicle that is caused by chemotherapy. It works by reducing the temperature of the scalp by a few degrees immediately before, during, and after the administration of chemotherapy. This in turn reduces the blood flow to the hair follicles.
Patients wear a cap that is connected to a mobile machine via which scalp cooling therapy is delivered. The patient is required to wear the cap for approximately one hour prior to treatment, during the administration of chemotherapy (usually 4-6 hours), and for approximately one hour post treatment.
St Johns Anglican College Leos Experience the Power of Kindness
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaOn 13th June 2025, members of the St Johns Anglican College Leos Club visited Kev Hooper Park in Inala – a place where meals are served every Friday to people experiencing homelessness.
The visit was a powerful learning experience for the young Leos, who are proudly supported and sponsored by the Lions Club of Forest Lake. The Forest Lake Lions have been serving their community for over 30 years, and their partnership with the Leos Club continues to inspire the next generation of service-minded young people.
Accompanied by their supervising teacher, Mrs Macarena, and Forest Lake Leos Advisor, Lion April Lindel, the Leos witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by those doing it tough. They were warmly welcomed by Project Coordinator Margarita Aunei-Stowes, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to both the Lions Clubs of Forest Lake and Kallangur for donating rugs to help provide comfort during the colder months.
Throughout the day, the Leos heard many stories from people whose lives had been disrupted by hardship. One such story came from Liza Aokuso, who shared that she and her two children had recently experienced homelessness but were now settling into a rented room in a share house – a positive step forward on their journey.
For the Leos, the experience was deeply eye-opening. It reinforced the importance of compassion, community, and the simple truth that kindness truly matters.
Project Coordinator Margarita extended her thanks to the Forest Lake and Kallangur Lions Clubs for their generous donation of Love Rugs, and to the Leos Club members for providing food items to support the program.
Their visit served as a meaningful reminder of what it means to live out the Lions motto – We Serve.