Twelve-year-old Alexander Scott has a message for kids (and adults) across Australia: When you see bullying, be an upstander, not a bystander.
His innovative anti-bullying initiative Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying enlists the help of some of his local basketball heroes to spread the message and encourage kids to stand up against bullying.
The idea came to him while attending a Geelong United NBL1 game, when he saw some of the same kids who bullied him at school lining up to get autographs of the players. “I noticed bullies look up to the same people I do.”
He wondered, what if their heroes took a stand? “I thought if bullies don’t listen to teachers, they might listen to these players.” Alexander took his idea to the Geelong United Basketball team, and the “Shoot for Kindness — Block Out Bullying” initiative was born.
The players were excited to serve as Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying Ambassadors. With them on board, Alexander worked together with a professional director to create a short film encouraging kids to stand up for kindness. The film is played before games, and the player cards featuring team members are handed out to spectators. Posters featuring the player ambassadors are displayed at stadiums around the area.
Lion Morris Piper, of the Leopold Lions Club (V2), is a team manager of the Geelong United NBL1 men’s team and was there that inspirational day two years ago when Alexander first visited the team’s locker room. He was also there when the team agreed to join his initiative. And he’s been with Alexander ever since. “From that point on I have worked with him, his parents, and a whole host of people — who he refers to as his village — to support his Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying project.”
In May of last year, Alexander was invited to speak at a Leopold Lions Club dinner, where he shared his story of being bullied, and his idea to enlist athletes to inspire kindness. “He had every member glued to every word he spoke. At the end of his talk, Alexander received a standing ovation and had a number of members in tears. Something I have never seen in my 17 years as a Proud Lion.” said Morris.
To help him get started, Leopold Lions Club generously donated $500 towards the project, which paid for 3,000 player cards. And four months later, the club presented Alexander with the Barry J Palmer AO ‘Kindness Matters’ Recognition Award.
Alexander has taken his presentation to numerous community clubs and organisations, local MPs offices, area schools, and has even addressed a room full of 300 guests, including the Deputy Prime Minister, at the Geelong Advertiser’s Future Geelong Summit.
The Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying program has been adopted by other outreach groups as well. The Community Engagement Police Unit from Geelong, The Surf Coast and The Bellarine are showing the short film and giving out player cards to schools as part of their Bullying Presentation.
In addition to the generous donations from local organisations, Alexander raises the funds he needs by recycling cans and bottles. He has a village of supporters behind him, including family and friends, and several local businesses. So far, he has raised over $5000 from recycling. That’s 50,000 voices of kids and teens. “Every bottle and can that I recycle represents one person I am going to prevent from being bullied,” he said.
Alexander isn’t done yet, though. He’s looking to expand the Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying program, and is currently working on new short films featuring professional basketballers from across the country.
“You can’t always stop a bully, but you can help people be aware of the importance of being an Upstander.”
Lions Back Mick the Tick Children’s Book to Raise Tick Awareness
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceKara Perrin was enjoying her trip through outback Western Australia when she was bit by a tick carrying Lyme Disease. But it wasn’t until she returned home to Perth that her personal journey truly began. She began feeling seriously unwell, but struggled to get a diagnosis, and the eventual treatment she was able to get left her having to relearn how to walk and talk.
Kara Perrin and Western Australian Lions at the Mick the Tick film premier. photo: Jenna Hogan
It was a long, lonely road to recovery. Along the way, she was continually frustrated by the lack of awareness for Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses. As a survivor, she looked to medical and political leaders for help addressing this public health issue, but it seemed like she wasn’t getting anywhere. So, she decided to take her message to the leaders of tomorrow: kids.
Building on her training as an Early Children Studies Grad, Kara developed a curriculum designed to attract and educate children about the dangers of ticks and tick-borne illnesses. The program is centered around the beautifully illustrated 56-page picture book, Mick the Tick, which follows 10 adorable Aussie animal friends and a trickster tick named Mick.
Kara has developed age-appropriate lesson plans for teachers, including songs, games, and toys. The program is already a big hit in places like the United States and Canada, where Lyme Disease has widespread community support.
And thanks to donors like the Lions of Western Australia, she has produced an animated film that can be shown at school visits and online workshops. Their donation of $10,000 enabled her to hire animators and voice actors to bring the story of Mick the Tick to life.
The premier screening of the Mick the Tick film was held on Saturday, 16 May 2026, at Morley Noranda Recreation Club. Several Lions were in attendance, with the Noranda Lions Club providing assistance. PDG Mick Wainwright was the emcee, and DG Tom Oversby presented Kara with beautiful native Australian flowers.
Australia’s Outstanding Young Leaders Shine at National Finals
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaYoung leaders from across Australia gathered in Adelaide during the Lions Australia National Convention to compete in the 2026 Leo of the Year and Youth of the Year national finals. Representing their states after months of competition, finalists showcased outstanding leadership, community involvement and public speaking skills as they vied for the national titles.
Youth of the Year National Final
The Lions Youth of the Year program continues to recognise and develop young Australians who are making an impact through leadership, service and personal achievement.
This year’s national finalists were:
Following an outstanding competition, Isabella Chalker from Western Australia was named the 2026 Lions Youth of the Year Overall Winner and Public Speaking Winner.
Isabella impressed judges with her confidence, leadership, communication skills and thoughtful responses throughout the program, showcasing the qualities that have made Youth of the Year one of Australia’s premier youth development initiatives.
Congratulations to all finalists, who represented their states with professionalism, passion and dedication. Their achievements reflect the high calibre of young leaders participating in the program across the country.
Leo of the Year National Final
The Leo of the Year program celebrates the exceptional achievements of young people involved in the Leo movement, recognising leadership, service, personal development and community impact.
This year’s national finalists were:
The competition showcased the outstanding calibre of young leaders involved in Leo Clubs across Australia, with finalists demonstrating a strong commitment to service, leadership and making a difference in their communities.
Congratulations to Avinash Mohta from Sydney, New South Wales, proudly sponsored by the Lions Club of Parramatta, who was named the 2026 Leo of the Year National Winner.
Avinash also received the Public Speaking Award after delivering an outstanding performance throughout the competition. His achievement reflects his leadership, passion for service and dedication to the Leo movement.
Congratulations to all finalists, who represented the Leo movement with excellence and demonstrated the incredible impact young people are making through service and leadership.
Developing Australia’s Next Generation of Leaders
The Lions Youth of the Year and Leo of the Year programs have long played an important role in developing confident, capable young leaders. Through interviews, public speaking and leadership assessments, participants are challenged to grow their skills while exploring ways they can make meaningful contributions to their communities.
The national finals in Adelaide highlighted the exceptional talent, character and commitment of young people from across Australia. While only one winner can be named in each program, every finalist demonstrated the leadership, integrity and community spirit that these initiatives seek to foster.
Lions Australia congratulates Isabella Chalker, Avinash Mohta and all national finalists on their achievements and thanks the many Lions and Leo volunteers who continue to support these valuable youth development programs.
Meet Mackie and Harvey: Two Hearing Dogs Making Everyday Life Easier
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaTwo remarkable hearing dogs are helping their owners live more independently thanks to years of specialist training and the support of local Lions volunteers.
Lions Hearing Dog, Harvey, with his owner and members of Yeppoon Lions Club.
Mackie, a Boston Terrier, and Harvey, a Labradoodle, recently achieved accreditation after completing their training with Lions Assistance Dogs. Along the way, members of the Yeppoon Lions Club assisted with follow-up training, visiting the dogs and their owners several times each week to help reinforce their responses to important everyday sounds.
Lions Hearing Dog, Mackie, with his owner and members of Yeppoon Lions Club.
Hearing dogs are trained to alert their owners to sounds such as doorbells, ringing phones, timers and knocks at the door. When they hear a sound, they locate its source, return to their owner, and guide them to where the sound originated. They are also trained to respond to emergency alarms and remain focused in busy public environments.
For Yeppoon Lions members, seeing the dogs’ skills in action and the strong bond they share with their owners has been a rewarding experience.
The club’s connection with Lions Assistance Dogs dates back to 2005, when members visited the training centre in Hahndorf, South Australia, and were inspired by the life-changing impact of the program. Since then, both the former Yeppoon Lioness Club and Yeppoon Lions Club have proudly supported Lions Assistance Dogs through donations and volunteer involvement.
Today, Mackie and Harvey are providing companionship, confidence and greater independence to their owners every day, demonstrating the extraordinary difference a well-trained assistance dog can make.
From Scraps to Strength: Raymond Terrace Lions Stitch Hope for Women in Need
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaWhat began as a practical response to a global crisis has evolved into a heartfelt community project – one that is quite literally stitching comfort, dignity and hope into the lives of women and children.
During the height of COVID-19, members of the Raymond Terrace Lions Club turned their attention to making colourful, reusable face masks. The effort was centred at Shirley’s Woodberry Drapery, owned by Linda Campbell, sister of Lion Judith Bee. It felt only natural for the local business to play a role in giving back during such a challenging time.
As masks were produced in large numbers, so too were leftover scraps – small pieces of 100% cotton fabric that might otherwise have been discarded. But instead of heading to landfill, these “crumbs” were carefully saved, waiting for their next purpose.
That purpose has now taken shape in the form of crumb quilts.
Club members, alongside volunteers from the wider community, have come together to transform these fabric remnants into 8½-inch quilt blocks. Additional materials have been generously donated by Linda and other community members, turning the initiative into a true collective effort.
The quilts are being created to support the Raymond Terrace Neighbourhood Centre, which will oversee a new women’s refuge set to open in late 2026. The vision is simple yet powerful: when women and their children arrive at the refuge, they will be able to choose a quilt of their own – something to bring comfort in a difficult time, and to take with them as they move forward.
It’s a project that spans generations. Volunteers range in age from 20 to 94, each contributing in their own way – whether sewing, ironing, measuring, counting blocks, or packing kits. Every task, no matter how small, helps bring another quilt to life.
Support is always welcome. Experienced sewists and enthusiastic beginners alike are encouraged to get involved. For those short on time, there are opportunities to contribute from home after a quick visit to learn the techniques and collect a kit.
Each Wednesday from 10am to 3pm, Linda generously opens her Woodberry premises as a creative hub, where volunteers gather to assemble quilts and connect over a shared purpose.
This project is a reminder that even the smallest pieces – of fabric, of time, of effort – can come together to create something meaningful. In the hands of Lions and their community, scraps are becoming symbols of care, resilience and new beginnings.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Judith Bee on 0427 013 233 or Linda Campbell on 02 4966 2248, or reach out to Shirley’s Woodberry Drapery.
Yagoona boy given life-changing mobility thanks to Lions support
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaA bright and determined five-year-old from Yagoona is experiencing the joy of independent movement for the first time, thanks to the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation.
Issa, who lives with Joubert Syndrome, kidney failure and developmental delay, was recently fitted with a specially designed Theraplay Trike valued at approximately $7,000 – a piece of equipment that is already transforming his daily life.
The trike was provided through the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF), supported by local Lions volunteers dedicated to helping children with physical disabilities gain greater independence.
Issa’s condition impacts his strength, endurance and balance, making it difficult for him to walk long distances or keep up with other children his age. The adaptive trike will now allow him to safely participate in family outings, engage with friends at daycare, and build strength, coordination and confidence.
During the fitting, attended by Issa’s mother Sue, his sister, physiotherapist Rose, rehabilitation equipment consultant Leon, and ALCMF Chair Greg English, the room was filled with excitement and emotion.
Once fitted to the trike, Issa wasted no time, taking off with a huge smile as those around him hurried to keep up.
For his family, the moment was deeply significant.
“This is so much more than a bike,” Sue said.
“It’s giving Issa the chance to be included, to play, and to experience the same simple joys as other children. We are incredibly grateful to Lions for making this possible.”
ALCMF Chair Greg English said the impact of providing mobility equipment goes far beyond physical movement.
“This isn’t just about mobility- it’s about giving a child the opportunity to fully participate in life,” he said.
“For children like Issa, equipment like this can be the difference between sitting on the sidelines and being actively involved with their family, their friends and their community.”
“We see time and time again that when a child gains mobility, their confidence grows, their independence increases, and their whole world opens up – not just physically, but socially and emotionally as well.”
“Importantly, it also has a significant impact on families. It creates opportunities for shared experiences, for inclusion, and for moments that might otherwise not be possible.”
The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation is one of many Lions foundations and projects supporting Australians in need, with initiatives spanning youth programs, medical research, disaster relief and assistance dogs – all driven by Lions volunteers committed to strengthening their local communities.
For more information on Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation visit https://alcmf.org.au
From Inspiration to Impact: Leos Power Up ‘Eat Up Australia’ in Victoria
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaWhat happens when you gather passionate young leaders, a stack of bread, and a shared mission to make a difference? In Victoria, it looked a lot like energy, connection… and 4,000 sandwiches disappearing in record time.
The Leo-led event brought together Leos, Lions and volunteers from across the state for a day that blended leadership, connection and hands-on service. While the morning showcased the talent and voice of young leaders, it was the afternoon’s service project that truly captured the spirit of what it means to be a Leo.
A National Program Making a Local Difference
The focus of the day was the incredible Eat Up Australia program. What began in Shepparton as a small, local effort to support one school has grown into a national initiative helping students across the country who might otherwise go without lunch.
For Leos, it was more than just making sandwiches. It was about being part of something bigger, something that delivers immediate, tangible impact in communities.
A Stadium Transformed
Following the morning activities, the group moved to a local basketball stadium that had been completely transformed. The floor was lined with carpet squares, tables stretched across the space, and hundreds of loaves of bread stood ready like ingredients for a very ambitious recipe.
Behind the scenes, volunteers had spent hours preparing the space. What followed was a masterclass in teamwork.
With more than 250 Leos, Lions and volunteers working side by side, over 4,000 cheese sandwiches were made in just 25 minutes, beating the original target. It was fast-paced, high-energy and driven by a shared purpose: ensuring students have access to a simple but essential meal.
More Than Just Sandwiches
Moments like these highlight the power of Leo Clubs. The Eat Up Australia project wasn’t just about food. It was about connection, leadership and showing young people the impact they can have when they step forward and get involved.
Throughout the day, Leos from different clubs came together, many meeting for the first time, forming new friendships and strengthening the Leo network across the state. Even a group of young people from Carisbrook, who are yet to form their own Leo Club, attended to see what it was all about, and left inspired to get involved.
Backed by a Strong Support Network
The event was organised by the Victorian Leo Council, with support from Lions clubs including Melbourne Next Gen, Melbourne Chinese and District V1-4. The presence and involvement of District Governor Samantha further demonstrated the strong backing Leos have from the wider Lions community.
A Glimpse of What’s Possible
While the Leo of the Year competition and leadership workshop earlier in the day showcased the confidence and capability of young leaders, the Eat Up Australia project showed their impact in action.
It’s one thing to talk about service. It’s another to roll up your sleeves and deliver it at scale, in under half an hour.
And if this day is anything to go by, the future of service in Lions is in very capable hands.
Leopold Lions Helping Kids Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceTwelve-year-old Alexander Scott has a message for kids (and adults) across Australia: When you see bullying, be an upstander, not a bystander.
His innovative anti-bullying initiative Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying enlists the help of some of his local basketball heroes to spread the message and encourage kids to stand up against bullying.
The idea came to him while attending a Geelong United NBL1 game, when he saw some of the same kids who bullied him at school lining up to get autographs of the players. “I noticed bullies look up to the same people I do.”
He wondered, what if their heroes took a stand? “I thought if bullies don’t listen to teachers, they might listen to these players.” Alexander took his idea to the Geelong United Basketball team, and the “Shoot for Kindness — Block Out Bullying” initiative was born.
The players were excited to serve as Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying Ambassadors. With them on board, Alexander worked together with a professional director to create a short film encouraging kids to stand up for kindness. The film is played before games, and the player cards featuring team members are handed out to spectators. Posters featuring the player ambassadors are displayed at stadiums around the area.
Lion Morris Piper, of the Leopold Lions Club (V2), is a team manager of the Geelong United NBL1 men’s team and was there that inspirational day two years ago when Alexander first visited the team’s locker room. He was also there when the team agreed to join his initiative. And he’s been with Alexander ever since. “From that point on I have worked with him, his parents, and a whole host of people — who he refers to as his village — to support his Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying project.”
To help him get started, Leopold Lions Club generously donated $500 towards the project, which paid for 3,000 player cards. And four months later, the club presented Alexander with the Barry J Palmer AO ‘Kindness Matters’ Recognition Award.
Alexander has taken his presentation to numerous community clubs and organisations, local MPs offices, area schools, and has even addressed a room full of 300 guests, including the Deputy Prime Minister, at the Geelong Advertiser’s Future Geelong Summit.
The Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying program has been adopted by other outreach groups as well. The Community Engagement Police Unit from Geelong, The Surf Coast and The Bellarine are showing the short film and giving out player cards to schools as part of their Bullying Presentation.
In addition to the generous donations from local organisations, Alexander raises the funds he needs by recycling cans and bottles. He has a village of supporters behind him, including family and friends, and several local businesses. So far, he has raised over $5000 from recycling. That’s 50,000 voices of kids and teens. “Every bottle and can that I recycle represents one person I am going to prevent from being bullied,” he said.
Alexander isn’t done yet, though. He’s looking to expand the Shoot for Kindness, Block Out Bullying program, and is currently working on new short films featuring professional basketballers from across the country.
“You can’t always stop a bully, but you can help people be aware of the importance of being an Upstander.”
Young Leaders in Service: Mareeba Lions Investing in the Future
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Lions Club of Mareeba is helping shape the next generation of community leaders through its inspiring Young Leaders in Service Program – an initiative built on the belief that leadership begins with opportunity, encouragement, and the confidence to step forward.
Designed to empower local students, the program invites young people to embrace the Lions values of leadership, compassion and service, while making a real and lasting impact in their community.
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Recognised for Outstanding Impact
The success of the program was recently celebrated at the Mareeba Shire Australia Day Awards, where the Mareeba Lions Young Leaders in Service group was honoured with the 2026 Junior Community Service Award. This recognition highlights the meaningful contribution these young leaders are already making – not just learning about service, but actively living it.
Real Experience. Real Impact.
What sets this program apart is its hands-on approach. Participants don’t just learn about leadership – they practice it.
Young Leaders work alongside Mareeba Lions members on real projects that benefit the local community. Along the way, they gain valuable experience by:
Through these experiences, participants learn that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice – it’s about service, collaboration, and showing up when it matters most.
A Year of Growth and Commitment
The program runs over 12 months, from July to June, and is open to motivated students ready to grow both personally and as community contributors.
Participants commit to:
This structure ensures students are fully immersed in the Lions experience while building confidence, skills and connections.
Mentorship That Matters
A key strength of the program is the mentorship provided by members of the Lions Club of Mareeba. Drawing on a wealth of professional experience and community knowledge, Lions guide and support participants every step of the way — helping them unlock their potential and gain the most from their journey.
Meaningful (and Fun) Service
Young Leaders take part in a wide range of service activities, including:
And importantly, the program recognises that volunteering should be both meaningful and enjoyable – creating an experience that young people genuinely want to be part of.
Recognition and Opportunities
Participants are acknowledged for their commitment and achievements through a range of benefits, including:
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to students who are eager to make a difference and develop their leadership skills through service.
Eligibility includes:
The Mareeba Lions Young Leaders in Service Program is more than just an opportunity – it’s an investment in the future. By empowering young people today, Lions are helping build stronger, more connected communities for tomorrow.
You can find out more about how to apply here.
Lions Australia Appoints Sari-Elle Kraemer as New Ambassador
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaLions Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Lion Sari-Elle Kraemer as a Lions Ambassador, following endorsement by the Multiple District Council. This exciting development marks a continued commitment to raising awareness of the organisation’s wide-reaching impact across communities nationwide.
Sari-Elle joins Deborah Hutton, who has served with distinction as a special Lions Ambassador, particularly in promoting the importance of skin cancer prevention. Together, they represent a powerful voice for the organisation’s work and its ongoing mission to support those in need.
In her new role, Sari-Elle will help shine a spotlight on the diverse range of Lions Australia projects, foundations and causes operating across the country. Her appointment reflects both her dedication to service and her ability to connect with communities in meaningful and inspiring ways.
An accomplished ultra-marathon runner, Sari-Elle brings a unique and dynamic approach to the Ambassador role. She plans to represent Lions Australia at running events associated with Lions Conventions, using these opportunities to raise both funds and awareness for Lions foundations. Through her efforts, each event will serve as a platform to highlight the impact of Lions’ work, reinforcing the message that every step can contribute to positive change.
Sari-Elle is an active member of the Lions Club of Coogee, where she has already demonstrated a strong commitment to the Lions motto of ‘service above self’. Her new role as Ambassador will see her extend this passion even further, engaging broader audiences and inspiring others to get involved.
Lions Australia congratulates Sari-Elle Kraemer on her appointment and looks forward to the energy and enthusiasm she will bring to this important role.
Seven Marathons, Seven Days: Sari-Elle’s Run for Lions
Sari-Elle is already hitting the ground running – literally – out in the community, training for her next big challenge for Lions.
In the lead-up to the MD National Convention, she’ll take on an extraordinary feat: running seven marathons in seven days from Melbourne to Adelaide. Along the way, she’ll be raising awareness of Lions and vital funds for Lions Assistance Dogs, with an ambitious goal of $70,000.
Follow @sarielleruns on Facebook or Instagram for updates, and if you’d like to support this incredible fundraising effort, visit: https://lionsassistancedogs.raiselysite.com/sarielle
Eva’s New Trike: Pretty Pink Pedal Power
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by Karen PriceOn a sunny day in February, on a lovely tree-lined residential street in a quiet suburb in Canberra, a four-year-old girl rode her tricycle with her mum following behind.
It’s a typical summer sight played out all over Australia. But this was a special little girl. And the pink tricycle was no ordinary trike. Eva has physical and cognitive disabilities that make riding a standard tricycle difficult. She usually gets around in a specialised pram, pushed by her mum.
Thanks to the generosity of Canberra Region Lions Clubs and the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation, she’s now sitting pretty on her brand new custom pink Terrier Cycle tricycle.
Representatives of the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation as well as various Lions Clubs were present on the day to celebrate with Eva’s family and physiotherapist as she proudly pedaled up and down the street, smiling and waving as she passed her cheering fans.
Among them were Lion Lorraine Barker, Secretary, Lions Club of Canberra Brindabella (and support for ALCMF in Canberra), Lion Dale Wickham, 2nd Vice President, Lions Club of Canberra Brindabella, Lion David Tate, President, Lions Club of Canberra Valley, Lion Bob Brinckley, 2nd Vice President, Lions Club of Canberra Kambah, and Lion Keith Cox, President, Lions Club of Gungahlin.
Eva’s Theraplay Terrier tricycle is customised to her specific needs and will enable her to move around more freely. In addition to giving her more mobility and independence, riding the trike will help build her strength and endurance, and give her a boost in confidence. Plus, it’s her favourite colour: pink!
Eva doesn’t speak, but it was abundantly clear she really loves her new trike. “Eva looked right at me and gave me a wave to say, ‘Thank you!’” says David Tate, who was there with his camera to document the special day. “You can see the joy on her face in many of these photos.”