Lion Sheryl Keppler shares the story of her recent long trek across South Australia as she raised donations for Lions Assistance Dogs.
In July 2026, I undertook a significant personal challenge to support Lap the Map for Diabetes: a solo winter hike of more than 320 kilometres through rural South Australia. Over 16 days, I followed sections of the iconic Heysen Trail, carrying everything I needed on my back while facing some of the harshest conditions the South Australian winter could offer.
My journey began in Tanunda, in the heart of the Barossa Valley, and followed the Heysen Trail north, beyond the Adelaide Hills and surrounding ranges. Stretching approximately 1,200 kilometres from Cape Jervis to Parachilna Gorge, the Heysen Trail traverses some of South Australia’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. It passes through farming communities, crosses rugged ranges, and winds along quiet country roads and isolated back tracks.
For much of the walk, I saw very few people. Days were spent alone in the wilderness, navigating muddy trails, climbing countless hills, and crossing hundreds of stiles that linked one paddock to the next. Nights were spent in basic trail campsites, many of which consisted of little more than a rainwater tank and a bench. Most campsites were perched on exposed hilltops, offering spectacular views but little shelter from winter storms.
With a pack weighing more than 16 kilograms, every step required determination. My pack contained my tent, clothing, safety equipment, and enough food for up to nine days at a time between resupply points. Winter conditions brought a mix of freezing mornings, heavy winds, and persistent rain, while long distances placed constant strain on my body. Painful blisters became a daily companion, requiring careful management to keep moving forward.
But this hike was about much more than physical endurance.
I undertook this challenge to raise awareness of diabetes, a condition affecting more than 1.3 million Australians. Diabetes is also one of Lions Clubs International’s Global Causes, with Lions around the world committed to supporting people living with diabetes and contributing to efforts aimed at prevention, treatment, and ultimately a cure.
For people living with diabetes, every day can involve careful planning and constant decision-making. Blood glucose levels must be closely monitored and managed to prevent both immediate medical emergencies and long-term complications. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to serious health issues including blindness, kidney disease, cardiovascular complications, nerve damage, and in severe cases, limb amputation.
As I walked mile after mile through isolated countryside, I often reflected on those living with diabetes. Managing my own food intake over long distances, dealing with fatigue, and adapting to changing conditions provided a small glimpse into what it must be like to continually manage a complex health condition.
For young people in particular, diabetes can sometimes feel isolating and restrictive. The Lions Assistance Dog Program provides specially trained diabetes assistance dogs free to their recipients, that can detect changes in blood glucose levels and alert their owners. These remarkable companions offer increased independence, reassurance, and safety for individuals with Type 1 diabetes, while also providing peace of mind for their families. Donations to our Lap the Map appeal will help in the costs of raising and training these dogs.
One of the strongest messages I hope to share through this journey is the importance of physical activity. Research has shown that just 30 minutes of walking each day can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while also improving overall health and wellbeing.
As Lions members, we have an opportunity to set an example within our communities. By promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging regular physical activity, and supporting those living with diabetes, we can help create healthier and more connected communities.
My 320-kilometre winter trek was certainly a test of endurance, resilience, and determination. Yet every cold morning, every steep climb, every blister, and every lonely kilometre served a greater purpose. It was an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage healthier lifestyles, and support the ongoing work of Lions in improving the lives of people affected by diabetes.
Sometimes meaningful change begins with simply putting one foot in front of the other. Over 320 kilometres, that is exactly what I set out to do.
Sheryl’s ultimate goal is to walk 500km. She’s already ticked off 321! Her next long walk will be an 80-km trek around Darling Harbour with fellow Lion Emily Struik, from 28 November to 1 December. Dubbed ‘Lap the Map with Lions Sheryl & Emily,’ they’ve put out a call for Lions to join them for a great opportunity to ‘bring that special Lions Club spirit we all know and love!’
Old Stamps Help Kids Take Their First Steps
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaOld postage stamps gathering dust in drawers and cupboards across Australia are being given a second life, helping provide life-changing mobility equipment to children with cerebral palsy.
For more than 30 years, Lions volunteers have collected, sorted and sold unwanted stamps, raising nearly $500,000 for the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF).
Since the Foundation became the beneficiary of the project, around six tonnes of stamps have been collected and sold, with the funds helping provide specialised walkers, bikes, tricycles and quadricycles to children and young people under 18.
Little Faye with her new bike alongside members of the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation (ALCMF).
The initiative is run through the Lions International Stamp Club (LISC), which was established in 1952. Australian members began recycling donated stamps in the early 1990s, turning their interest in stamp collecting into practical community service.
What started as a relatively small project has grown into a nationwide effort, with Lions Clubs, individuals, families and businesses donating stamps from across Australia.
Increasingly, donations include old stamp collections inherited from parents or grandparents that families no longer know what to do with.
Lions Australia is encouraging Australians not to throw these collections away, as even stamps that appear to have little value can collectively make a significant difference.
Lion Scott Hinks said the project was a powerful example of how something seemingly insignificant could be transformed into meaningful support.
“Many people have old stamps or entire collections sitting in cupboards and drawers and assume they are no longer worth anything,” Scott said.
“But through Lions, those stamps can be given a new purpose. When thousands of them are brought together, they can help fund mobility equipment that gives a child greater independence and, in some cases, helps them take their first steps.
Lions Scott Hinks and Yvette Rydman with donated stamps helping to support the fundraising effort.
“It’s such a simple way for anyone in the community to make a difference.”
The donated stamps do not need to be rare or valuable. Used stamps clipped from envelopes, old collections and unused stamps can all contribute to the fundraising effort.
Lions volunteers across Australia spend countless hours receiving, clipping, sorting and preparing the stamps before they are sold, generally in bulk through an auction centre in Sydney to buyers from Australia and Asia.
Australians have also played a significant role in the history of the Lions International Stamp Club, with an Australian serving as its international president on six occasions.
More than three decades after the Australian recycling initiative began, Lions hope another generation of forgotten stamp collections can continue creating opportunities for children.
For more information, visit:
Lions International Stamp Club
One Step at a Time: A 320km Winter Journey for Diabetes Awareness
/in OUR STORIES, Uncategorized /by Karen PriceLion Sheryl Keppler shares the story of her recent long trek across South Australia as she raised donations for Lions Assistance Dogs.
In July 2026, I undertook a significant personal challenge to support Lap the Map for Diabetes: a solo winter hike of more than 320 kilometres through rural South Australia. Over 16 days, I followed sections of the iconic Heysen Trail, carrying everything I needed on my back while facing some of the harshest conditions the South Australian winter could offer.
My journey began in Tanunda, in the heart of the Barossa Valley, and followed the Heysen Trail north, beyond the Adelaide Hills and surrounding ranges. Stretching approximately 1,200 kilometres from Cape Jervis to Parachilna Gorge, the Heysen Trail traverses some of South Australia’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. It passes through farming communities, crosses rugged ranges, and winds along quiet country roads and isolated back tracks.
For much of the walk, I saw very few people. Days were spent alone in the wilderness, navigating muddy trails, climbing countless hills, and crossing hundreds of stiles that linked one paddock to the next. Nights were spent in basic trail campsites, many of which consisted of little more than a rainwater tank and a bench. Most campsites were perched on exposed hilltops, offering spectacular views but little shelter from winter storms.
But this hike was about much more than physical endurance.
I undertook this challenge to raise awareness of diabetes, a condition affecting more than 1.3 million Australians. Diabetes is also one of Lions Clubs International’s Global Causes, with Lions around the world committed to supporting people living with diabetes and contributing to efforts aimed at prevention, treatment, and ultimately a cure.
For people living with diabetes, every day can involve careful planning and constant decision-making. Blood glucose levels must be closely monitored and managed to prevent both immediate medical emergencies and long-term complications. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to serious health issues including blindness, kidney disease, cardiovascular complications, nerve damage, and in severe cases, limb amputation.
As I walked mile after mile through isolated countryside, I often reflected on those living with diabetes. Managing my own food intake over long distances, dealing with fatigue, and adapting to changing conditions provided a small glimpse into what it must be like to continually manage a complex health condition.
One of the strongest messages I hope to share through this journey is the importance of physical activity. Research has shown that just 30 minutes of walking each day can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while also improving overall health and wellbeing.
As Lions members, we have an opportunity to set an example within our communities. By promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging regular physical activity, and supporting those living with diabetes, we can help create healthier and more connected communities.
My 320-kilometre winter trek was certainly a test of endurance, resilience, and determination. Yet every cold morning, every steep climb, every blister, and every lonely kilometre served a greater purpose. It was an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage healthier lifestyles, and support the ongoing work of Lions in improving the lives of people affected by diabetes.
Sometimes meaningful change begins with simply putting one foot in front of the other. Over 320 kilometres, that is exactly what I set out to do.
Sheryl’s ultimate goal is to walk 500km. She’s already ticked off 321! Her next long walk will be an 80-km trek around Darling Harbour with fellow Lion Emily Struik, from 28 November to 1 December. Dubbed ‘Lap the Map with Lions Sheryl & Emily,’ they’ve put out a call for Lions to join them for a great opportunity to ‘bring that special Lions Club spirit we all know and love!’
A new chapter for Lion Magazine
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaAfter around 20 years at the helm of the Australian edition of Lion Magazine, Editor Lion Tony Fawcett has announced his retirement from the role.
For two decades, Tony has been the driving force behind the Australian edition of Lion Magazine, managing the magazine from end to end and ensuring Lions across Australia had a publication that celebrated their service, achievements and stories. His dedication, editorial expertise and commitment have shaped the magazine over many years, and his contribution to Lions Australia has been truly remarkable.
Lions Australia extends its enormous thanks and appreciation to Tony for his outstanding service as Editor. His commitment and hard work have ensured countless Lions stories have found their way into the hands of our members.
As Tony steps away, we are pleased to welcome Karen Price from the Lions Australia National Office into the role.
Following approval from MD201 Council, the editorial function for Lion Magazine will move into the National Office on a 12-month trial basis, with Karen taking on the role of Editor. Karen brings experience and a keen interest in magazine production, and we are excited to have her take the reins.
Story submissions will continue to be welcomed at magazine@lions.org.au, with Karen now managing this inbox.
As part of the transition, Lion Magazine will also move to a new publication schedule, with editions planned for March and September each year.
Please join us in thanking Tony for his remarkable 20 years of service and welcoming Karen to her new role. We look forward to seeing the next chapter of Lion Magazine unfold.
WA’s oldest living WWII veteran celebrates 100th birthday with his Lions community
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThere are few milestones more remarkable than turning 100. For Jack Le Cras, the occasion is made even more extraordinary by a lifetime dedicated to serving his country and his community.
The Perth identity and World War II veteran celebrated his 100th birthday on 1 September, surrounded by family, friends, fellow Lions, veterans and members of the wider community at a special morning tea hosted by the Lions Club of Whitford at Bunnings Joondalup.
Lion Jack Le Cras turns 100.
Jack is believed to be the oldest living World War II veteran in Western Australia and was just 19 years old when he witnessed one of the most significant moments in modern history.
On 2 September 1945, Jack was aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay as Japan formally surrendered, bringing the Second World War to an end. He was one of three sailors from HMAS Bataan selected to ferry Australia’s senior military representatives to the battleship for the historic ceremony.
More than eight decades later, Jack continues to embody a spirit of service.
He has been a member of Lions for 49 years and remains an active member of the Lions Club of Whitford, where he currently serves as Acting Treasurer. His contribution to the club and the wider community has been part of a lifetime of volunteering, which has also included service with the Wanneroo RSL Sub-Branch and the Naval Association of Western Australia.
For Jack, staying involved and helping others has remained a way of life.
Jack’s approach to life is refreshingly simple. He credits staying active, following his doctor’s advice, remaining involved in the community and keeping his mind engaged as important to his longevity.
The birthday celebration was a fitting tribute to a man who has spent much of his life showing up for others.
Lions Club of Whitford President Derek Best said Jack’s remarkable age was only part of what made the milestone worth celebrating.
“What strikes you about Jack isn’t just his age or the incredible things he has done, it’s how present he still is. He shows up, he helps out, and he’s been doing that for Whitford Lions Club for 49 years,” Derek said.
“Today is about the whole community getting to say thank you, the way he’s quietly said ‘yes’ to helping others for decades.”
From serving his country as a young sailor to dedicating almost five decades to Lions and his local community, Jack’s story is one of extraordinary service, commitment and continued involvement.
And at 100 years young, he shows no signs of slowing down.
60 Years of Service: Celebrating Lion Bob Beasley
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaSix decades, three terms as Club President, countless community projects and one very famous apple crumble.
The Pambula-Merimbula Lions Club recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone, honouring Lion Bob Beasley for 60 years of service with Lions Clubs International.
Lion Bob Beasley pictured with fellow member Lyn Matthews.
At the Club’s meeting on 9 July 2026, Bob was presented with his 60-Year Monarch Chevron Award by Second Vice District Governor Lyn Matthews, marking an incredible six decades of service to his community.
Bob’s Lions journey began on 1 June 1966, when he joined the Lions Club of Pambula-Merimbula, becoming the Club’s first new member after it was chartered on 17 August 1965. His sponsor was Lion Elton Marsden, the Club’s Charter Secretary.
A busy pharmacist and father of a young family at the time, Bob still found time to throw himself into Lions activities. He went on to serve as Club President three times, in 1972-73, 1991-92 and 1995-96, helping steer the Club through some challenging periods.
Six decades on, Bob’s enthusiasm for service remains strong.
These days, he is known for his humour and good nature as the Club’s Tail Twister and continues to get involved wherever a helping hand is needed, from fundraising activities and working bees to service projects and barbecues.
Bob has also supported Lions’ broader humanitarian work, generously donating to special appeals through Lions Clubs International Foundation and the Australian Lions Foundation following natural disasters.
Closer to home, he regularly helps the Club support Sapphire Life Opportunities, which provides a weekly meal for people in the local community who are doing it tough. Bob has even put his culinary skills to work, cooking a complete main meal for around 50 people.
His cooking has become something of a Lions tradition. Each year, Bob hosts the Club’s annual social meeting at his home, treating members to a roast dinner followed by his much-loved famous apple crumble.
After 60 years, Bob’s contribution to Lions is about much more than a number on an award.
It is six decades of showing up, lending a hand, supporting people in need and helping make his community a better place.
Through his unwavering commitment, generosity and dedication, Bob has truly embodied the Lions motto: “We Serve.”
His remarkable journey is an inspiration to Lions members, both past and present, and a wonderful reminder of the lasting difference a lifetime of service can make.
Congratulations, Lion Bob, and thank you for 60 incredible years of service!
Lions in Western Australia shine a light on suicide prevention
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaWith suicide being the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44, Lions Clubs in Western Australia are proud to announce the official adoption of the Beacon of Light project as a district initiative.
The project aims to address the urgent need for immediate mental health support to individuals contemplating suicide by providing timely intervention through a mobile volunteer service.
Volunteer Lucas representing Beacon of Light at the Spiers Centre Heathridge, along with the Food Van.
The Beacon of Light was formed to provide assistance for those suffering in silence in our local communities.
“We know that people going through mental health struggles sometimes have to wait 4-6 weeks to see a therapist. With the support of community groups, alongside therapists, councilors, psychologists and carers who volunteer their time , we target hot spots for people that would benefit from a meaningful conversation so we can help them navigate through their challenges,” says Derek Best who is Co Founder of Beacon of Life and a member of the Lions Club of Whitford.
Lions member and Beacon of Light co-founder Derek Best with volunteers at their Beacon of Light ‘Discovery Talk’.
Lions Clubs across Western Australia will be assisting with funding a van that will be equipped for counselling sessions.
The Lions Beacon of Light Mind Health Van will operate as a mobile service, staffed by trained volunteers and therapists, to offer immediate support to those in need. The vehicle will be deployed to community shelters, events like ANZAC Day, and other significant gatherings to provide on-the-spot assistance. A brief 10–30-minute conversation can be pivotal in preventing suicides.
“The Beacon of Light project symbolizes our commitment to those who are struggling, and it serves as a rallying point for anyone who wants to make a difference in the fight against suicide.”
WA Lions District Governor Mary-Ann Wolf expressed the Lions Clubs’ commitment to this essential cause, stating: “Lions across WA are very proud to be adopting the Beacon of Light project focused on mental health and suicide prevention. This project speaks to the core of our Lions mission—serving the community. We believe that together, we can make a profound impact, not only by raising awareness but by actively reaching out to those in need and reminding them that they are not alone.”
Through partnerships with mental health organizations and community engagement initiatives, the Beacon of Light project will feature workshops, local events, and accessible resources designed to encourage open conversations and mental health support. A visual representation of hope and connection, the project aims to serve as a reminder to the community that help is available and accessible.
The Beacon of Light team is seeking volunteers, sponsors, and donations to support their efforts. If you’re interested in helping, you can reach out here.
They’ve set an ambitious fundraising goal of $20,000 and have already raised over $4,550. Join them in making a difference!
Narromine Lions Club Raises $10,000 to Support Families Facing Childhood Terminal Illness
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Narromine Lions Club has raised $10,000 for Rio’s Legacy, a charity dedicated to supporting children with life-limiting illnesses and their families while advocating for greater access to children’s hospice care across Australia.
More than 80 people attended a special fundraising luncheon at the Narromine Aero Club, where guests heard from Rio’s Legacy CEO, Ryan Fowler, and took part in a monster raffle featuring 24 prizes generously donated by local businesses and community members.
Pictured L-R: Lion Judy Ryan, Ryan Fowler – CEO of Rio’s Legacy, and Lion Michael Ryan.
Ryan shared the deeply personal story behind the charity’s creation. His son, Rio, was born on 21 July 2016 and, after developing recurring gastro symptoms, was diagnosed with the extremely rare and terminal condition arterial vasculopathy. Rio spent his final days at Bear Cottage in Manly before passing away on 15 January 2018, just 40 days after becoming unwell.
Following their experience, Ryan and his wife Karen founded Rio’s Legacy to ensure every Australian family with a child facing a life-limiting illness has the option of receiving compassionate hospice care close to home. Today, the organisation supports families through fundraising, advocacy and partnerships with services that care for children with life-limiting conditions. With only three children’s hospices and respite centres operating across Australia, Rio’s Legacy continues to campaign for greater access to these vital services.
Pictured L to R: Lion Karen Shearwood, Stacey Irvine – Graincorp representative, Lion Viv Halbisch and Ryan Fowler – Rio’s Legacy.
The luncheon was especially meaningful for Ryan. Before establishing Rio’s Legacy, he was a House Master at Scots College in Sydney. Many former students and their families attended the event to reconnect with Ryan and Karen after supporting them during Rio’s illness. It was also the first time Ryan had shared Rio’s story west of the Blue Mountains.
Despite ongoing drought conditions affecting the region, the Narromine community came together in remarkable fashion. Supported by neighbouring Lions Clubs, local businesses and generous residents, the club proudly presented Ryan with a cheque for $10,000.
Following the event, Ryan thanked the club for its outstanding support.
The Narromine Lions Club’s remarkable fundraising effort is a powerful example of Lions serving their community by bringing people together to support families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Growing a Greener Future: Celebrate National Tree Day with the Lions Green Canopy Environment Project
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaNational Tree Day is just around the corner on Sunday 26 July, making now the perfect time for Lions clubs across Australia to plan a tree planting project that will leave a lasting legacy.
Whether you’re planting a single tree in a local park, restoring native habitat with a community group, or organising a large-scale planting day, every tree makes a difference. Through the Lions Green Canopy Environment Project, Lions are working together towards an ambitious goal of planting one million trees by June 2027, creating healthier communities and a more sustainable future.
Getting involved is simple. Partner with your local council, Landcare group, school, fellow Lions and Leos, or invite your wider community to join you for a rewarding day outdoors. National Tree Day has become Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event, providing a fantastic opportunity to strengthen community connections while making a positive environmental impact. (National Tree Day).
As we head into another exciting year, we’re also pleased to introduce the 2026-27 Lions Green Canopy Environment Project Team.
From left to right are Geoff Freudenstein, Paul McInnes, Brett Gabel, and Tony Benbow OAM, who will be supporting the project throughout the year.
The team is committed to growing the Lions Green Canopy Environment Project even further by introducing new incentives, fresh programs and exciting collaborations that empower every Lion to make a meaningful environmental impact in their community.
Together with project mascots Kylie, Leo and Wally, they’ll be encouraging clubs to have fun while creating greener communities across Australia.
If your club is planning a National Tree Day activity, we’d love to see it. Be sure to:
Every tree planted today helps create cleaner air, healthier habitats and stronger communities for generations to come. So grab a shovel, gather some friends and make this National Tree Day one to remember.
Let’s grow the canopy, one project at a time. 🌳
Blanket Warms Hearts Across Salisbury
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaAs temperatures dropped across South Australia this winter, the Lions Club of Salisbury helped ensure local families wouldn’t have to face the cold alone.
On Sunday 28 June, the club hosted its annual Blanket Salisbury With Love Winter Appeal at the Mawson Centre in Mawson Lakes, bringing together residents, volunteers, businesses and community organisations to support people experiencing hardship.
The appeal invited the community to donate new and near-new quality blankets, along with non-perishable food items. Every donation stays within the Salisbury community, providing practical support to local families and individuals doing it tough during the winter months.
The success of the event was made possible through the dedication of Lions volunteers and the generous support of community partners including BAPS Charities, The Mustard Seed Family Project and Cos We Care. Throughout the day, Salisbury Lions members worked tirelessly to collect, sort and prepare donations so they could be distributed quickly to those who need them most.
Lions Club of Salisbury President and event organiser Lauren Brug said the appeal continues to showcase the incredible generosity of the local community.
With cost-of-living pressures continuing to impact many Australian families, initiatives like Blanket Salisbury With Love are more important than ever. A simple donation of a blanket or pantry staple can provide comfort, dignity and hope to someone experiencing a difficult time.
The annual appeal is a wonderful example of Lions in action, living the motto We Serve by responding to the needs of their local community with compassion and practical support.
The Lions Club of Salisbury extends its heartfelt thanks to every volunteer, donor and community partner who contributed to this year’s appeal. Together, they have once again shown that when a community comes together, even the smallest acts of kindness can make a lasting difference.
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.