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
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.
Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation Chair Honoured for 38 Years of Dedication
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaCelebrating a Legacy of Service: David Daniels OAM Honoured for 38 Years of Dedication
Recently, the Drug Education Network (DEN) awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership to Lions Past District Governor David Daniels OAM, acknowledging his remarkable 38 years of service and leadership.
David’s contributions are deeply intertwined with the history of DEN and the Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation (ALWF), where his vision and commitment have left an enduring impact.
In 1985, David played a pivotal role in establishing DEN, presenting a compelling case to the Tasmanian government for a dedicated drug and alcohol awareness center. By 1986, the Lions Drug Education Network was officially launched, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking partnership between Lions and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation of Tasmania.
Under David’s leadership, DEN grew from a small initiative with limited funding into a cornerstone of Tasmania’s health and wellbeing landscape.
David’s passion for community wellbeing extends beyond DEN. As Chair of ALWF, he has continued to champion education and prevention programs that address drug and alcohol issues. His steadfast leadership has fostered collaboration, sustainability, and long-term impact, benefiting communities across Tasmania and beyond.
Throughout his career, David has earned numerous accolades, including the Lions Clubs International President’s Award and an Order of Australia Medal. These honours reflect his unwavering dedication to service, innovation, and the Lions’ mission to build healthier, safer communities.
As David steps back from his leadership role at DEN, his legacy continues through his work with ALWF. We thank David for his extraordinary contributions and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition. His achievements inspire Lions everywhere to dream big and serve boldly.
Original article from the Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation here.
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 in Heathridge.
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, counsellors, 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 Light 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 organisations 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.
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 a fundraising goal of $20,000 and have already raised over $4,550. Join them in making a difference!
Lions Biggest High Tea for Childhood Cancer Research
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaRaymond Terrace Lions Club members at the Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser.
The Raymond Terrace Lions Club raised a record $10,000 for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation through their third annual “Biggest High Tea.”
The event featured support from local businesses, a Quilt For A Cure raffle, and a guest speech by Dr. Ryan Dutchetel.
The funds will aid research into improving childhood cancer survival rates, particularly for brain cancer.
Club member Annette Clark highlighted the community’s vital role in achieving this success. For more details, visit the original article.
About the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation
The Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (ALCCRF) is dedicated to funding cutting-edge research to improve survival rates and outcomes for children diagnosed with cancer. Since its inception, the ALCCRF has supported numerous innovative projects, focusing on types of cancer with the lowest survival rates.
This commitment aligns with Lions Australia’s mission to create a brighter future for children with cancer and their families. Contributions from community events like the Raymond Terrace Lions Club’s “Biggest High Tea” play a crucial role in advancing this lifesaving research.
Lions named 2025 ACT Senior Australians of The Year
/in OUR STORIES /by Jemma2025 ACT Senior Australian of The Year recipients – Marilyn and Peter Ralston OAM (Image: act.gov.au)
Celebrating Lions Peter and Marilyn Ralston OAM: 2025 ACT Senior Australians of the Year
The Lions Club of Canberra Belconnen are celebrating the incredible achievements of their very own Peter and Marilyn Ralston OAM, who have been named the 2025 ACT Senior Australians of the Year.
Peter and Marilyn’s unwavering commitment to supporting people with vision impairment and other disabilities shines through their work with the Achilles Running Club Canberra, which they founded in 2013. As President of the club, Peter has led initiatives that empower individuals to run, walk, and stay active. Achilles Canberra pairs volunteer guides with people with disabilities, enabling participation in fun runs, club training sessions, and the weekly Parkrun events.
Peter’s dedication is exemplified by his personal contribution: in the past three years, he has served as a guide for blind athletes an incredible 120 times at Parkrun. Thanks to their efforts, several blind members have each reached hundreds of Parkruns, a testament to the inclusive and supportive community that Peter and Marilyn have built.
Beyond their work with Achilles Canberra, Peter and Marilyn also contribute significantly to other charitable initiatives, embodying the Lions’ mission of serving the community.
A Proud Moment for Lions Canberra Belconnen
The Lions Club of Canberra Belconnen takes immense pride in the Ralstons, who are active and cherished members of their club. Peter’s enthusiasm for their projects, willingness to roll up his sleeves at BBQs, and ability to uplift spirits at club dinners have made him an integral part of the Lions team.
The ACT Senior Australian of the Year award recognises their outstanding contributions and serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their community.
Congratulations, Peter and Marilyn!
Join us in congratulating Peter and Marilyn on this well-deserved recognition. Their achievements inspire us all to strive for greater inclusivity and to make a difference in our communities.
For more details about the ACT Senior Australian of the Year winners, visit the ACT Government’s announcement.
From left: Daniel Bartholomaeus (ACT Young Australian of the Year), Hannah Costello and Vanessa Brettell (ACT Local Heroes), Megan Gilmour (ACT Australian of the Year), Marilyn Ralston and Peter Ralston OAM (ACT Senior Australian of the Year). (Image: act.gov.au)
Free Trade Day offers a lifeline as cost of living crisis hits hard
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaAs the cost of living continues to soar, more Australians are facing the heartbreaking reality of having to choose between basic needs and urgent repairs to their homes.
Free Trade Day helps to ease that burden, giving people doing it tough the gift of dignity, safety, and hope by connecting them with volunteer tradespeople who are offering their services for free.
Free Trade Day is a Lions Club of Terrigal-Wamberal project. Those who are doing it tough and in need of a trade specialty job are nominated by their community and matched with a relevant team of tradespeople who complete the job, free of charge.
On the 25th October 2024, over 200 tradespeople undertook dozens of jobs across the Central Coast region, helping the most vulnerable members of the community.
This year, recipients included a single mother of three, diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer, whose home was in desperate need of repairs.
Without Free Trade Day, this mother would have no way to fix the damage, making it even harder to care for her children as her illness progresses.
Another heart-wrenching story comes from the Wyong Family Care Cottage, which supports families of sick children.
They received critical renovations that will allow them to continue offering respite to families already overwhelmed by the weight of illness.
Free Trade Day founder, Ryan Wilson, is a Central Coast electrician and Lions Club member. He is thrilled to see Free Trade Day grow, with more supporters joining the ranks.
“In 2017, I took a job for an elderly man who had been without water for six months. After fixing the problem, I discovered that he had been suffering in silence for far too long because he was unable to afford basic repairs.”
“Sadly, he passed away shortly after the job was completed, but I couldn’t shake the thought of how many more people like him were out there, and that’s where the idea for Free Trade Day was born. It’s become a Lions project and it’s been great to see it grow each year.”
“The day is just so powerful. Not only are the recipients crying happy tears, but the tradies and Lions volunteers are also often overcome with emotion realising that they have used their skills to change someone’s life.”
CEO of Lions Australia Rob Oerlemans says Free Trade Day is just one example of Lions Australia’s commitment to helping people in need.
“As the cost-of-living crisis continues, we’re seeing more and more people really struggling in our community. Lions Australia is committed to stepping in where help is most needed. Free Trade Day is a perfect example of how our volunteers are working together and bringing the community together to help those in need.”
“A the heart of every community is a Lions Club and in times like these, our volunteers are more committed than ever to help.”
Some Lions are on a mission to cure childhood cancer and diabetes, others are committed to assisting those impacted by drought and floods and many are simply working together to help people in need in their local community.
One thing all Lions have in common is together they are making an incredible difference.
For more information on how to get involved in the next Free Trade Day, visit their official website here.