When South Australian farmers put out a heartfelt call for help amid the worst drought the Eyre Peninsula has seen in decades, Lions answered.

With livestock feed becoming increasingly scarce, two Adelaide-based Lions Clubs – Glenside and Richmond – partnered with the Australian Lions Foundation to provide urgent relief.

Thanks to their combined efforts, $100,000 was raised and one-tonne bags of livestock pellets were delivered to farmers in need during a support day at the Streaky Bay Racecourse, with additional feed distributed in the following week.

The initiative was sparked when Streaky Bay farmer Suzie Kenny launched the #SaveOurSheep campaign, determined to help local producers facing devastating conditions.

Her story resonated with Lions Club of Glenside secretary Malcolm Schluter, who quickly rallied his Club and neighbouring Lions to get behind the cause.

More than 100 farmers have registered for assistance, and while the recent rainfall has offered a glimmer of hope, the need for support remains strong.

As well as supplying feed, Lions worked alongside the Wudinna and Wirrulla Lions Clubs and the local netball club to offer a free BBQ lunch during the distribution day – bringing people together during a difficult time.

This effort is a powerful example of what Lions do best – responding with compassion, collaboration and practical help when it’s needed most.

This speech was written and delivered by Charlize Chow, the 2024 Australian Leo of the Year, at the 73rd Lions Australia National Convention in Traralgon, Victoria.

BY CHARLIZE CHOW.

Good evening, esteemed Lions, fellow Leos, and honoured guests,

I stand before you today feeling incredibly humbled and full of gratitude as I reflect on the journey I’ve had as a Leo. This moment is not just about celebrating my own growth but about honouring the collective efforts of all those who have supported me along the way.

As I look back on the past year, I can’t help but marvel at how much I’ve grown—not only as a Leo, but as an individual. I’ve learned that leadership is not about titles or recognition, but about empowering others, listening with empathy, and constantly striving to make a positive difference, no matter how small the act may seem.

But perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned this year is the significance of collaboration—how essential it is for Leos and Lions to support one another. Lions, you are the foundation that helps us build the future of service. You are the mentors, the guiding lights that show us the path to success. Without your wisdom and encouragement, many of us wouldn’t have the confidence to take the next step, and some of the challenges we face as Leos would feel overwhelming.

Now, as I reflect on my own personal journey as a Leo, something truly special has happened that I never could have predicted when I first joined: I know it sounds quite cheesy but I’ve found a second family. There’s something deeply personal about being part of a Leo Club. It’s not just about the service projects or the events we organise—although those are incredibly meaningful—it’s about the bonds we create, the memories we make, and the way we support one another through thick and thin.

I’ve learned that being a part of this organisation has touched my heart in ways I can’t fully express. The friendships, the laughter, the shared experiences—those are the things that truly define this journey for me. We may come from different backgrounds, but when we come together as Leos, we are united by our shared purpose and our shared values. And in that unity, we’ve become more than just a group of individuals—we’ve become a family.

One of the most eye-opening experiences I’ve had as a Leo of the Year was attending the Lions International Convention 2024 in Victoria. Walking into that space and seeing so many cultures, so many people from around the world coming together in the name of service—it was truly incredible. It opened my eyes to the global reach of this organisation and the powerful role we play within it. I spent my time proudly promoting the Leo movement, having conversations, making connections, and showing the world what young leaders are capable of. And let’s just say… I may have come home with a few too many new badges —but who’s counting?

To every single Leo I have met along the way, you’ve all made an incredible impact on my life. Every single one of you brings something unique to the table, and your passion, kindness, and determination inspire me every day. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Leo Club of Melbourne Next Gen, Pam, Lee, and Georgia. Pam, as the Leo advisor, your leadership, vision, and unwavering support have been instrumental in helping us grow and thrive.

You’ve created an environment where we feel empowered to take initiative and make a real difference. Lee, your guidance and dedication to assisting Leos in Victoria has been invaluable. Your support, wisdom, and mentorship have been a source of strength for so many of us, and we are truly grateful for everything you do. And Georgia, thank you for setting such a strong example for the next generation of Leos. Your role as Chairperson of the Leo Advisory Panel and your ongoing contributions continue to inspire and uplift our community. You have given me the biggest shoes to fill.

But I’d also like to take a moment to reflect on the power we, as Leos, hold within our clubs and in our communities. The Leo Club is more than just a youth organisation—it is a dynamic, global force of positive change. We, as Leos, are not just learning how to serve, we are creating a legacy of leadership and compassion that will carry on for generations to come.

The work we do as Leos directly impacts our communities, from small acts of kindness to large-scale projects that address urgent issues. We are often the spark that ignites change, driving innovation, compassion, and hope into the lives of those who need it most. What’s more, we have a unique ability to bridge gaps—between generations, between cultures, and between communities. Through our work, we show that leadership is about more than just direction; it’s about creating connections, inspiring others to act, and leading with integrity and purpose.

And here’s the incredible part: we are the future of Lions. The impact we have today, no matter how big or small, is a testament to the values we hold dear and the potential we have to shape the world in ways that will echo far beyond our time.

That is why it is so essential for Leos and Lions to work together. When we join forces—when we combine the energy, creativity, and enthusiasm of Leos with the experience, wisdom, and resources of Lions—we become an unstoppable force for good. The mentorship and support Lions offer to us are invaluable, and the fresh ideas and energy we bring to the table offer new perspectives and solutions to long-standing challenges.

Lions, here I stand before you as I urge you to see that we, the Leos, are your future. We are the next generation of leaders, and we are ready to take on the mantle of service with all of the energy and passion that we possess. But to ensure that we continue to thrive and grow, we need your support more than ever. Whether it’s encouraging the formation of a Leo Club in your district or reaching out to connect with the existing ones, your involvement will make a world of difference.

It’s also important to consider how Lions Clubs can continue to support and retain Leos as they transition into adulthood. One way is by actively inviting Leos to participate in joint service projects and leadership opportunities within Lions Clubs. Providing clear pathways—such as mentorship, young Lion membership programs, or creating “Leo-Lion” hybrid clubs—they can help young leaders stay engaged and feel valued.

When Lions take the time to recognise the potential in their Leos and invest in their development, they foster a legacy of service that spans generations.

Your guidance will help us create a legacy of leadership and service that will carry Lionism into the future. Together, we can build something extraordinary, something that will last for generations to come.

This partnership is crucial, not just for our personal development, but for the continued success of the global mission of Lionism. Together, we can amplify the reach of our service, drive innovation, and inspire future leaders to carry on the torch.

In closing, I encourage all of us to continue working hand-in-hand, building upon the legacy of service that has defined this organization for over a century. Together, we can achieve more, inspire more, and, ultimately, change more lives.

Thank you for this incredible opportunity to reflect and grow. Let’s keep moving forward, side by side, as we create an even brighter future for the communities we serve.

The Lions Cancer Institute (WA) Inc is proud to announce its investment in a new custom-designed mobile screening facility to continue offering free full body skin cancer checks to communities across Western Australia.

This initiative underscores the Institute’s commitment to early detection and prevention of skin cancer, a prevalent health concern in the State.

Delivered by Truck Centre WA, the mobile clinic (built onto a Volvo FE truck chassis and an aluminium bus body from OmniBus) is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring accessible and high-quality skin checks for all.

This investment aims to significantly enhance the reach of the Institute’s skin cancer awareness campaign, particularly in remote and under-served areas.

To date, the Lions Cancer Institute has completed some 95,000 screenings, with more than 23% of these being escalated for further comprehensive testing.

Of this number, over 1,300 individuals were identified as having life threatening skin cancers.

Skin cancer is a serious issue that affects so many Australians. Early detection is crucial, and this new mobile clinic will make a real difference in saving lives.

The Lions Cancer Institute’s new mobile clinic is a testament to its ongoing efforts to combat skin cancer and improve the health outcomes of Western Australians, a service funded entirely by sponsors, Lions Clubs and public donations.

Find out more about the Lions Cancer Institute here. 

For the past 14 years, the Lions Club of Ballarat has been firing up the barbecue each Easter to raise vital funds for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation.

A much-loved tradition in the community, the annual event is made even more special thanks to the Easter Bunny – played by dedicated Lion Leone Stevenson, who has proudly worn the ears for the past ten years.

In just the last three years, the club has raised an impressive $7,000 through their Easter fundraiser.

As part of the festivities, the Easter Bunny and Lion Bill Sleep made their way around supermarkets across Central Ballarat, collecting generous Easter egg donations that brought big smiles to local children.

A fantastic example of Lions making a difference – one sausage sizzle and chocolate egg at a time!

Click here to find out more about the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation.