Lions across Australia dedicate their time, energy, and passion to serving their communities. In his poem Ode to a Lion, Lion Greg Dunn beautifully captures the spirit of service that unites us all. We hope his words inspire and resonate with you.
Ode to a Lion
“Would you like to buy a ticket sir, there’s just a few to go?
You ask sir what you’re going to win; do you really need to know?
Be assured the prize is real and it’s really worth the buck,
But tell me if you will sir, the last time you had any luck.
Well, we’re raffling a dinner and a night in some hotel.
We’re trying to help a local lad whose legs don’t work to well.
It’s possible you’ve seen him, in his wheelchair in the mall.
Young Sullivan, they call him and his smile is ten feet tall.”
“Yes! I’ve seen him come to think of it, but why are you involved?
Don’t we have Authorities to have this problem solved?
I mean, surely, surely there is someone, – why is it left to you?”
“Because you see we’re Lions sir; it is part of what we do.”
“Lions you say, I’ve heard of them; the sausage sizzle lot.
I’ve seen them at the local Fair; they seem to know what’s what.
But while I buy these raffle tickets, of which there’s quite a few;
Apart from running sausage sizzles, what else do Lions do?”
“That’s not an easy question sir; its range is so diverse.
We often think we do it tough but there are lots who do it worse,
And if in some way we can ease their burden or their strife,
Well then the worlds a better place for someone’s lonely life.
Of ourselves, there’s nothing special and when all is said and done,
It’s really us who benefit in camaraderie and fun.
We are not the good Samaritans who discard all luxury;
We are normal folk who go to work, or raise a family.
You see, as an individual, we don’t have too much clout,
But get a few of us together and we’ll really knock you out.
We come from many walks of life and thus combined as one,
Our talent is amazing but primarily aimed at fun.
We enjoy each other’s company and we generate new friends,
And with Lions Clubs all ‘round the world, this friendship never ends.
But what gives us satisfaction, and makes it all worthwhile,
Is the gratitude that we receive, and that great big beaming smile.
And we can join with other Clubs and form working relations.
We pool resources into what we call our Lions Clubs Foundations.
Now these we use for special concentration of our deeds
Such as Diabetes, Sight, Cancer, and lots of other needs.
You can’t explain emotions, they’re personal and deep;
And you can’t explain indebtedness; it’s something that you keep.
I wish I could convey to you the feelings deep inside
And the tears that well within your eyes that we call ‘Lions Pride’.
I know you’re thinking to yourself. ‘What time does this consume?’
Well, Family first, next our welfare, then Lions if there’s room.
I see you’ve finished writing, I’ll pack up and close the lid.”
“Well I would have bought more tickets but was absorbed in what you did.
I didn’t realize just how much the community’s in your debt.”
“There’s nothing owed to Lions sir, we haven’t finished yet.
There’s so much I could tell you, I could go on all week,
But they want to close the shopping mall and their looks are very bleak.”
“We must meet up again sometime; I feel I’ve gained a friend”
“You have, in every Lion sir, on that you can depend.
But rather than restrict your thoughts on just my point of view,
I sooner you judge for yourself and see what Lions do.
I really would be honored if you’d come along and see;
And bring your wife along as well, the meals are on me.
Our Club meets at the local hall just down by Taylor Square.
At 7 o’clock this Tuesday night. – Oh, and you can buy more tickets there. “
©Greg Dunn
Helping Kids One Lunch at a Time
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaFood insecurity is a very real issue in the Hunter region, with 1 in 4 school children going to school without lunch.
That’s where Eat Up Australia steps in – and thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers from local Lions and Rotary clubs, the “Eat Up Lunches” project is making a real difference.
Members from the Lions Clubs of Toronto, Morisset Incorporated, East Maitland, Warners Bay, Cessnock, Maitland, and Jesmond, along with the Rotary Club of Newcastle Enterprise, recently joined forces to prepare and pack an incredible 1,860 sandwiches.
These were delivered to 34 local schools, helping ensure students have something to eat during the school day.
This impressive effort happens 12 times a year, with volunteers giving their time to help reduce food insecurity in their community.
The Jesmond Lions Club has also been busy. Members recently visited Jesmond Public School and met with Principal Holly Foot to discuss additional support.
The club has pledged $10,000 to fund new shade sails, giving students a comfortable space to learn outdoors.
They also introduced the Lions Eye Health Program and its children’s visions screening program, and shared more about the Eat Up initiative. The school has now booked a visit from the Eye Health team and applied to officially join the Eat Up program.
The Club welcomed Principal Foot as the guest speaker at their Club Dinner Meeting, where she shared more about the school’s involvement and the positive impact of these programs.
Well done to all for their continued dedication to supporting local families and children.
Tiny Cells, Big Hope: How Lions Are Powering Lifesaving Cord Blood Research
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaEvery year, thousands of Australian families face the unthinkable: a child diagnosed with a life-threatening illness like leukemia or a rare genetic disorder. For many, the best chance at a cure comes from a stem cell transplant. That’s where cord blood – rich in stem cells collected at birth – can be the difference between life and death.
Thanks to the Lions Cord Blood Foundation, lifesaving treatments and world-leading research are being made possible.
Members of the Lions Cord Blood Foundation attend Monash Children’s Hospital.
In 2024 alone, the Foundation helped fund the collection and storage of donated cord blood, ensuring that more families have access to transplants when they need them most.
But the impact doesn’t stop there.
The Foundation also supports the next generation of medical leaders – like Dr Abdul Razak, whose PhD scholarship was funded by the Lions Cord Blood Foundation.
Dr Razak recently completed his research at Monash University, exploring how to improve recovery after cord blood transplants in children. His findings, now published in international journals, could dramatically enhance outcomes for children facing cancer and other life-threatening conditions.
Dr Razak’s journey – from scholarship recipient to contributor of world-class research – is a powerful reminder of the ripple effect Lions can create.
For over two decades, Lions clubs across Victoria and Tasmania have raised millions for this cause. Every fundraising sausage sizzle, trivia night, and donation drive helps give seriously ill children another shot at life.
Together, we’re not just supporting research – we’re delivering futures.
You can learn more about The Lions Cord Blood Foundation here.
To view the 2024 Scholarship Impact Report in full, click here.
Lions Women Set Sights on Everest for Children in Need
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaA courageous team of 18 Lions women from around the globe are preparing to trek to Everest Base Camp from April 18–28 2025, as part of the Kili4Kids initiative – a powerful international Lions Clubs project supporting children in underdeveloped communities.
Among them is Sheryl Keppler, President of the Australian Online and Travellers Lions Club, who will proudly represent Lions Australia and place the Australian flag at Base Camp. Invited by Past International President Barry Palmer, Sheryl has been actively fundraising for the cause in the lead-up to the journey.
Lion Sheryl Keppler is presented with the Australian flag to place at Everest Base Camp.
Kili4Kids is more than just a climb – it’s a mission. Each year, the group raises $100,000 USD to build a school in the country where they climb, supported by the Lions Clubs International Foundation. The women of Kili4Kids are strong, determined, and united by a common goal: to protect and uplift children facing injustice and hardship.
This year’s challenge will fund the rebuild of Shree S.S Sirathauli School in Nepal and may also make history – if the team reaches Everest Base Camp, they’ll be entered into the Guinness Book of Records.
Good luck to Sheryl and all the inspiring Lions women taking part in this incredible adventure for a cause that truly matters. You can find out more about Kili4Kids here.
Lions Support Recycle for Sight with New Partnership
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook has formed an exciting new partnership with a Sydney Recycling Centre based in Thornleigh.
This collaboration will enhance the collection of used spectacles for the Lions Recycle for Sight Australia program.
Members of the West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook Lions Club.
The Thornleigh Recycling Centre will now act as an official collection point, making it even easier for community members to donate their used glasses.
A designated collection bin has been installed at the Centre, located at 29 Sefton Rd, Thornleigh NSW, where members of the public can drop off their old spectacles to give the gift of sight to those in need.
For many years, the Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook has been a strong supporter of the Lions Recycle for Sight initiative, collecting tens of thousands of used spectacles.
These donated glasses are refurbished and distributed to individuals who cannot afford proper eyewear. The impact of this program is far-reaching, with Lions Clubs across Australia responding to requests from humanitarian organisations that deliver glasses to developing countries.
Since its inception 26 years ago, Lions Recycle for Sight Australia has provided over seven million pairs of quality refurbished spectacles to men, women, and children in need across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, East Asia, China, the Pacific Rim, and Southern Asia.
In the past decade, members of the Lions Marine Branch have even used their oceangoing yachts to reach remote villages, where they test eyesight and distribute much-needed spectacles to isolated communities.
This new partnership between the Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook and the Thornleigh Recycling Centre will ensure even more people can contribute to this life-changing initiative.
If you have used spectacles at home, consider donating them today – your simple act of kindness could change someone’s life.
Find out how to donate your glasses here.
Cronulla Lions Club Delivers Life-Saving Humidicrib to Sutherland Hospital
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Cronulla Lions Club has proudly delivered a state-of-the-art Babyleo TN500 Humidicrib to the Sutherland Hospital Maternity Unit, ensuring the best possible care for premature babies.
Pictured L to R: Dominic Anthony – Nurse Unit Manager, Brian Cowan – Cronulla Lions Vice President, David Gittus – Cronulla Lions Secretary and Simone Payn – Nursing Midwifery and Operations Director.
This vital piece of neonatal equipment, valued at $65,000, was made possible through a collaborative effort with Oatley, Lugano, Kogarah, Blacktown Ponds, and Sydney Host Lions Clubs, along with a generous $15,000 grant from the Australian Lions Foundation.
Simone Payn, Nursing Midwifery and Operations Director at Sutherland Hospital, expressed her gratitude, highlighting the importance of the Humidicrib in providing critical support to premature newborns. It protects premature babies so they can grow, using a combination of three heat sources, while also allowing for quick and comfortable access for medical staff.
Remarkably, this new Humidicrib replaces one that was originally donated by the Cronulla Lions Club a decade ago and had reached the end of its service life. The club’s continued commitment to improving neonatal care ensures that the region’s most vulnerable infants receive the best start in life.
The Cronulla Lions Club remains dedicated to addressing local community needs through various projects, particularly those focused on children’s and babies’ health.
To learn more about the Cronulla Lions Club and how you can support their work, follow them on social media.
Honouring Dr Joe Collins: A Legacy of Dedication to Childhood Cancer Research
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF) is proud to introduce a new award in recognition of the Foundation’s co-founder and founding Chair, Dr Joe Collins.
Dr Collins, alongside Past International President (PIP) Barry Palmer, played a pivotal role in establishing ALCCRF. Together, they brought forward the resolution at the 2009 Melbourne Convention, where delegates approved the creation of the Foundation.
In previous years, PIP Barry Palmer was honoured with the Barry J Palmer Fellow award. Now, it is time to recognise Joe’s invaluable contributions with the Dr Joe Collins Recognition Award.
The very first award was presented to Dr Collins by ALCCRF Chairman Ron Skeen in Sydney this February, acknowledging his dedication and impact.
Joe’s journey and deep connection to ALCCRF are truly inspiring. Watch the video below to learn more about his remarkable story.
Supporting Childhood Cancer Research & Recognising Lions’ Contributions
Cancer touches so many lives, and it is particularly heartbreaking when a young child is affected. By supporting ALCCRF, you are helping to fund vital research that brings hope to children and families impacted by childhood cancer.
Australians can support the fight against childhood cancer by donating to the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation at www.alccrf.lions.org.au.
Are you a Lions Club member? You can recognise the efforts of your fellow members with an ALCCRF award. Presenting an ALCCRF award is not only a meaningful way to acknowledge a deserving Lion but also a way to contribute to a cause that changes lives. For more information about ALCCRF awards, click here.
‘Ode to a Lion’ Poem
/in Uncategorized /by JemmaLions across Australia dedicate their time, energy, and passion to serving their communities. In his poem Ode to a Lion, Lion Greg Dunn beautifully captures the spirit of service that unites us all. We hope his words inspire and resonate with you.
Ode to a Lion
“Would you like to buy a ticket sir, there’s just a few to go?
You ask sir what you’re going to win; do you really need to know?
Be assured the prize is real and it’s really worth the buck,
But tell me if you will sir, the last time you had any luck.
Well, we’re raffling a dinner and a night in some hotel.
We’re trying to help a local lad whose legs don’t work to well.
It’s possible you’ve seen him, in his wheelchair in the mall.
Young Sullivan, they call him and his smile is ten feet tall.”
“Yes! I’ve seen him come to think of it, but why are you involved?
Don’t we have Authorities to have this problem solved?
I mean, surely, surely there is someone, – why is it left to you?”
“Because you see we’re Lions sir; it is part of what we do.”
“Lions you say, I’ve heard of them; the sausage sizzle lot.
I’ve seen them at the local Fair; they seem to know what’s what.
But while I buy these raffle tickets, of which there’s quite a few;
Apart from running sausage sizzles, what else do Lions do?”
“That’s not an easy question sir; its range is so diverse.
We often think we do it tough but there are lots who do it worse,
And if in some way we can ease their burden or their strife,
Well then the worlds a better place for someone’s lonely life.
Of ourselves, there’s nothing special and when all is said and done,
It’s really us who benefit in camaraderie and fun.
We are not the good Samaritans who discard all luxury;
We are normal folk who go to work, or raise a family.
You see, as an individual, we don’t have too much clout,
But get a few of us together and we’ll really knock you out.
We come from many walks of life and thus combined as one,
Our talent is amazing but primarily aimed at fun.
We enjoy each other’s company and we generate new friends,
And with Lions Clubs all ‘round the world, this friendship never ends.
But what gives us satisfaction, and makes it all worthwhile,
Is the gratitude that we receive, and that great big beaming smile.
And we can join with other Clubs and form working relations.
We pool resources into what we call our Lions Clubs Foundations.
Now these we use for special concentration of our deeds
Such as Diabetes, Sight, Cancer, and lots of other needs.
You can’t explain emotions, they’re personal and deep;
And you can’t explain indebtedness; it’s something that you keep.
I wish I could convey to you the feelings deep inside
And the tears that well within your eyes that we call ‘Lions Pride’.
I know you’re thinking to yourself. ‘What time does this consume?’
Well, Family first, next our welfare, then Lions if there’s room.
I see you’ve finished writing, I’ll pack up and close the lid.”
“Well I would have bought more tickets but was absorbed in what you did.
I didn’t realize just how much the community’s in your debt.”
“There’s nothing owed to Lions sir, we haven’t finished yet.
There’s so much I could tell you, I could go on all week,
But they want to close the shopping mall and their looks are very bleak.”
“We must meet up again sometime; I feel I’ve gained a friend”
“You have, in every Lion sir, on that you can depend.
But rather than restrict your thoughts on just my point of view,
I sooner you judge for yourself and see what Lions do.
I really would be honored if you’d come along and see;
And bring your wife along as well, the meals are on me.
Our Club meets at the local hall just down by Taylor Square.
At 7 o’clock this Tuesday night. – Oh, and you can buy more tickets there. “
©Greg Dunn
Growing a Greener Future: The Lions Green Canopy Project
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaImagine this: a child planting their first tree, a group of volunteers working side by side in the fresh air, and communities coming together to create a lasting impact.
This is the vision behind the Lions Green Canopy Environment Project – a bold initiative launched by Lions Australia to make a real difference for our planet.
At the 2024 Darwin Convention, Lions voted to embark on an ambitious mission: planting one million trees across Australia and Papua New Guinea by June 2027.
But we’re not stopping there – if the project continues, we aim to plant 500,000 trees every year after that.
Why trees? Because they cool our cities, clean our air, support wildlife, and protect our future.
And with the environment being the top concern for people under 40, this project is an incredible opportunity to engage younger volunteers and strengthen our clubs for the future.
The best part? Your club can partner with local councils, schools, Landcare groups, and other service organisations to make an even bigger impact.
Whether it’s replanting after bushfires, greening urban spaces, or restoring habitats, every tree planted is a step toward a healthier planet.
So, how can you get involved?
It’s simple: find a site, gather a team, and start planting.
Let’s work together to grow a greener future – one tree at a time.
Are you ready to make a lasting impact? Get involved in the Lions Green Canopy Environment Project today!
Lions are on a mission to cure childhood cancer
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaIt’s International Childhood Cancer Day on Saturday (February 15), and Lions volunteers across Australia are rallying support for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF) to help fund life-saving research.
Since 2009, the ALCCRF, with the support of Lions volunteers and their communities, has raised over $14 million to fund critical childhood cancer research. Tragically, cancer remains the leading cause of disease-related death in Australian children, claiming the lives of three children every week.
A key milestone in the foundation’s efforts has been the $4 million Lions Kids Cancer Genome Project in partnership with the Garvan Institute, which mapped the genome of over 400 children with cancer. This initiative has played a crucial role in advancing precision medicine, allowing for more targeted and effective treatments. The success of this project has contributed to the expansion of the Zero Childhood Cancer Program, ensuring all Australians aged 0 to 18 years with cancer have access to life-changing DNA sequencing.
In recent years, ALCCRF has also been a strong supporter of the Kids Research Institute Australia (formerly Telethon Kids Cancer Centre), providing over $1.2 million in funding over the past five years. This funding has helped drive cutting-edge research in cancer immunotherapy, an innovative treatment approach that boosts the body’s natural defences to fight cancer cells. Over the next three years, an additional $375,000 will be directed to furthering this critical work.
“At the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation, we are driven by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity for a healthy life. Over the past 15 years, Lions have raised more than $14 million to support groundbreaking research into childhood cancer,” says Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation Chair Ron Skeen OAM.
“Childhood cancer is an ongoing crisis. Almost 1,000 Australian children are diagnosed with cancer every year, many facing aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of the disease. While survival rates have improved for some cancers, others continue to take an unbearable toll on young lives.”
“ALCCRF is so proud of the difference we have made and continue to make in taking steps towards eliminating childhood cancer. In partnership with the Garvan Institute, Lions helped map the genome of more than 400 children with cancer, leading to breakthroughs in personalized treatment. The success and expansion of the Zero Childhood Cancer Program has seen all Australians aged 0 to 18 years with cancer have access to this life-changing DNA sequencing.”
“Our support has also been instrumental in the work of the Kids Research Institute Australia, particularly in advancing immunotherapy research. These investments are changing and saving lives, and we urge Australians to stand with us in continuing this critical fight.”
Australians can support the fight against childhood cancer by donating to the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation at www.alccrf.lions.org.au.
Lions Team Up with Canberra Baseball Team to Support Homeless Community
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaDuring the festive season, the Lions Club of Canberra Valley raised over $400 for their Hampers for the Homeless project, thanks to a successful partnership with the Canberra Cavalry baseball team.
During home games, the Lions Club sold their popular Christmas cakes and puddings while Cavalry management ran raffles to support the cause, further boosting awareness and funds for the project.
Sarge from the Canberra Calvary Baseball team and Lionel the Lion showing the crowd their moves.
Lionel the Lion made a grand appearance to cheer on the team during their latest game, a resounding success for the Canberra Cavalry as they triumphed over the Melbourne Aces with a score of 7–4.
Fans celebrated the win while also contributing to a great cause.
Lions Club of Canberra Valley fundraising for their Hampers for the Homeless project.
As the not-for-profit partner of the Canberra Cavalry, the Lions Club of Canberra Valley is grateful for the team’s continued support in helping make a difference. Together, they’re offering much-needed relief to those in need.
To find out more, visit the club’s Facebook page here.