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.
Lions Help Deliver Groundbreaking Research Equipment to St Vincent’s Institute
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaFrom April 2023 to May 2024, Lions in Victoria embarked on an ambitious project to help fund the purchase of an IncuCyte Live Cell Imaging Platform for St Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research (SVI) in Melbourne.
L to R: PCC David Horne, LADF Trustee Stephen Box (with Lions Hearing Dog Norm), Prof Helen Thomas (dec), PDG Robyn Falloon, PCC Bruce Hudgson (dec), SVI Researcher (and Lion) Martha Blanck, PDG Stan Falloon (dec), SVI Philanthropic Coordinator Josie Verga, Ass.Prof Jon Oakhill.
This cutting-edge equipment will transform medical research by enabling scientists to observe cell behaviour in real-time, providing new insights into how cells respond to treatments for a wide range of diseases including cancer, diabetes, bone disease and many others.
One SVI researcher explained that while traditional methods offered only a “skeleton understanding” of the beginning and end of the story, the IncuCyte would capture the “missing chapters,” allowing for continuous imaging over several days. This means researchers can now gather far more information, more efficiently, to support the discovery of new drugs and treatments.
How Lions Made It Happen
When the cost of the equipment was quoted at $264,000, Lions from District V1-4 launched the project in April 2023, inviting clubs to contribute $1,000 each. Lions clubs rallied strongly – some giving what they could, and others far exceeding the suggested donation. Collectively, the clubs raised $61,000.
L to R: LADF Trustee Stephen Box, PDG Robyn Falloon (Project Coordinator), ALF Victorian Trustee PDG John Houghton, PCC Bruce Hudgson (Project Advisor) and PDG Frankie Tang (LCIF District V1-4 Chairperson).
Additional support came from:
Australian Lions Foundation (ALF): $15,000 matching grant
Tour de Cure and the Bruce Hyans Foundation: $45,000 combined contribution
Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation (LADF): $25,000 partnership donation
To reach the final target, Lions applied to Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) in February 2024. The application was approved in May 2024, with LCIF providing a US$71,948 Matching Grant and a US$5,964 District and Club Community Impact Grant.
This support brought the project to a successful close.
A Shared Achievement
This project showed the power of Lions working together – breaking a lofty quarter-million-dollar goal into achievable steps. Every contribution, large or small, was vital in securing the matching grants that ultimately made the project possible.
A special Thank You Event was hosted by SVI on 26 March 2025, bringing Lions and researchers together to celebrate the installation of the IncuCyte. Lions were also recognised in SVI’s Annual Report and will be acknowledged in future medical publications made possible by this equipment.
Lasting Impact
This achievement reflects Lions’ enduring commitment to advancing medical research and improving outcomes for people living with life-threatening conditions. By supporting projects like this, Lions Australia helps give scientists the tools they need to make groundbreaking discoveries that will benefit countless patients in years to come.
PDG Robyn Falloon and LADF Trustee Stephen Box on the lab tour.
Past District Governor Robyn Falloon (IncuCyte Project Coordinator) and Lions from District V1-4 extend their deepest thanks to all Lions, clubs, foundations, and partners who made this project possible.
With gratitude, we also remember the late Lions Past Council Chair Bruce Hudgson OAM and Past District Governor Stan Falloon, who contributed greatly to this project and whose legacy of dedication continues to inspire us.
Inspiring Young Leader Recognised on International Youth Day
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThis International Youth Day on August 12, Lions Australia was proud to celebrate the inspiring young people in our Leo Clubs and youth programs who are making a real difference in their communities and paving the way for future generations.
One such young leader is Leo Molly Gysberts, whose incredible fundraising efforts have made a lasting impact in support of the Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation and its youth projects.
Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation Director and Lion Maddy Crimston-Smith presenting an award to Leo Molly Gysberts.
Molly completed an ocean swim challenge to raise funds for the Foundation’s work, demonstrating determination, community spirit, and a passion for helping others.
At a recent event, Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation Director and Lion Maddy Crimston-Smith had the honour of presenting Molly with a Dr Harry Jenkins Fellow Award.
This prestigious recognition celebrates Molly’s outstanding contribution to the Foundation’s youth projects and her dedication to improving the wellbeing of young people.
Molly’s efforts are a shining example of the leadership, compassion, and commitment that young people bring to Lions’ mission.
With young leaders like Molly paving the way, the future of Lions’ service is brighter than ever.
Learn more about Molly’s ocean swim challenge here: https://youtu.be/2BEm8jV0Xrc
New Chapter for Capalaba Lions Club Under Young President Sophie
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaMeet Sophie Cufflin, Capalaba Lions’ newly elected 23-year-old president – a powerful example of youth taking the lead in community engagement.
Sophie’s involvement began in high school as a Leo before she seamlessly transitioned into a Lion upon graduating. She has been a passionate advocate for service, leadership, and youth engagement over the past 8 years.
In addition to her new role as Club President, Sophie also serves as the District’s Public Relations/Social Media Officer, where her digital savvy and fresh perspective have brought a new level of energy to the organisation’s communications.
“I’m incredibly honoured and excited to step into this role,” Sophie said. “Lions have provided me with so many opportunities to grow as a leader, and now I’m proud to give back and support others in the same way.”
Sophie has embraced every opportunity for growth during her time with Lions. Over the past few years, she has taken part in a wide range of Lions training programs and leadership workshops, which has helped her develop the skills she now applies in both her role as president and in her career.
In April, Sophie participated in the Lions Faculty Development Institute (FDI) in Brisbane, joining fellow Lions from across Australia and New Zealand. More recently, she also took part in the Regional Lions Leadership Institute held in Brisbane.
As District Cabinet Social Media Chairperson, Sophie collaborated with Global Leadership Team (GLT) Coordinator Libby Salles to deliver a workshop on social media at the District Convention.
“Sophie embodies what Lions is all about: proactive service, future-focused thinking, and passionately putting her hand up to make a profound difference in our district,” Libby Salles said.
“At just 23, Sophie is a truly remarkable Lion who leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets,” she commented. “She’s not just holding roles but actively seeking opportunities to grow as a Lion – she is unequivocally a Lion to be watched!”
Causes close to Sophie’s heart include the environment and mental health, alongside modernising the club’s image with creative messaging and engaging stories. With her leadership, the club is looking forward to a vibrant year of service and connection.
Sophie is not only breaking new ground, but also showing what the next generation of Lions can do!
Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation Making a Real Difference
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaFor 24 years, the Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation has been making a massive impact in the Hunter New England region’s fight against diabetes.
To date, the foundation has donated around $680,000 to Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), helping tackle a disease that affects one in eight people in the region.
The foundation is made up of Lions volunteers who donate their time, money and effort to make a difference.
Foundation trustee Geoff Boyton knows firsthand why this work matters. Back in 2004, he faced his own health battle with prostate cancer.
“Medical research is certainly important to me as a cancer survivor,” Geoff explains.
“Without the research that’s gone into prostate cancer treatment, I probably wouldn’t be here today.”
For Secretary Stephen Box, the fight against diabetes hits even closer to home.
He carries the memory of losing his cousin who died on his 12th birthday from diabetes back in the early 1950s, when treatment options were virtually non-existent.
“There just wasn’t anything they could really do back then,” Stephen recalls.
“Hopefully one day we’ll be able to work out a way to stop people getting diabetes in the first place.”
So why did the Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation decide to support HMRI? For Stephen, the reason was simple:
“We wanted to support a local research organisation because without research diabetes wouldn’t be able to be cured.”
The foundation itself has an interesting origin story. It was born in 1992 from leftover funds from the 1989 Newcastle Earthquake Appeal – a perfect example of how communities can turn tragedy into hope.
Over three decades, they’ve donated more than $1 million to programmes focused on diabetes research, education, and awareness.
“Research is the main thing we focus on because research helps everybody,” says foundation chairman Jim Cowburn, who’s been with the organisation since day one.
Jim has diabetes himself and has witnessed incredible changes in treatment over the years. “I’ve got a little sensor that tells me whether my levels are high or low,” he says.
“That sort of thing wasn’t heard of 30 years ago.”
The foundation’s focus over the last few years has been supporting the Diabetes Alliance Plus Programme (DAP+), receiving over $100,000 in grants.
The programme brings diabetes specialists directly to rural and remote communities throughout the Hunter New England region.
Instead of expecting country patients to travel hours for specialist care, the experts come to them.
The Lions’ funding has been crucial in making this happen, with their grants helping to fund a PhD scholarship that delivers nutrition and exercise components of the programme.
The foundation recently awarded a new grant to expand the DAP+ team’s work, enabling them to address kidney disease associated with diabetes throughout the Hunter New England region.
This isn’t just about money – it’s about bridging the gap between city and country healthcare, giving people living in remote areas access to the same quality of diabetes care as those in metropolitan areas, which means better health outcomes and improved quality of life.
What started as earthquake relief funds has evolved into a powerful force for change, proving that when ordinary people come together with a shared purpose, extraordinary things can happen.
Lions make vital donation for young Lawson
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaA young Tasmanian family has had their lives transformed thanks to the Lions Club of Penguin.
Six-year-old Lawson was born with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy and is wheelchair-bound, making everyday errands a challenge for both him and his parents.
With the support of the Penguin Lions Club and the local community, the family raised around $70,000 to purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, officially handed over to them on 24 July 2025.
Penguin Lions President Dee Dawkins said the club takes great pride in supporting the community through initiatives like this.
Congratulations to everyone involved – and our best wishes to Lawson and his family as they enjoy this life-changing gift.
Lions provide vital support to Queensland families recovering from floods
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaLions Clubs in Queensland are delivering critical support to families and farmers still reeling from the recent devastating floods, with over $100,000 in funding mobilised through the Australian Lions Foundation’s National Disaster Appeal.
Soon after the floods, St George Lions ran a successful campaign called Fridge for a Friend to supply whitegoods to needy families, and Charleville Lions have been actively supporting families in Adavale.
‘We love our new fridge. It has made living in our shed bearable.’ – Donna, flood-affected community member supported by Lions.
Since then, thanks to the generous donations from Lions Clubs throughout QLD and NSW, and funding from the Foundation, families in flood-affected regions have already received more than $135,000 in direct support, with up to $2,000 paid to suppliers to assist with essentials such as white goods, furniture, clothing and school supplies.
“This support is helping families get back on their feet after weeks of damage and devastation,” said John Campbell, Lions Q4 District Disaster Chair. “For many, it’s the difference between getting through the week and falling further behind.”
‘With the stove and new saw I can now start on repairing my house and helping my friends and neighbours.’ – Deb, flood-affected community member supported by Lions.
Additional funding will continue to be rolled out to support urgent recovery needs, particularly for farmers and rural families who have suffered extensive losses.
These recovery efforts are made possible through donations to the Australian Lions Foundation National Disaster Appeal, which enables local Lions Clubs to act quickly and directly where support is needed most.
“Queensland communities are still hurting, and Lions are committed to being there for the long haul,” says Lions Australia CEO Rob Oerlemans. “The best way the public can help is by donating to the National Disaster Appeal. 100% of funds go straight to people who need it, via volunteers who know the community inside out.”
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.
Lions Step Up to Support Drought-Stricken Farmers in South Australia
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaWhen 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.
Lions Put Vision-Impaired Australians in the Driver’s Seat
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaMore than 150 vision-impaired Australians took the wheel on Saturday July 6 at Sandown Racecourse, thanks to Lions In the Driver’s Seat event.
Created by the Warrandyte Lions Club 28 years ago, the one-of-a-kind event gives people living with vision impairment the rare chance to drive a car – guided by trained instructors – in a safe and controlled environment.
Participants also enjoyed laps in V8 vehicles and motorcycle rides with the Ulysses Club, all completely free of charge.
“For those with vision impairment, driving is something they’ve often only dreamed about,” said Pat Mills, part of the event’s organising committee. “This day gives them a chance to experience the freedom, excitement and independence that many of us take for granted.”
The event drew a record-breaking 150 bookings this year, with participants travelling from across Australia to be part of the experience.
Several Lions Clubs were involved in this year’s event including Box Hill, Wheelers Hill, Nillumbik, Noble Park-Keysborough, Park Orchards, Vermont, Deaf & Hard of Hearing, Dandenong Supper, Waverley, Melbourne All Abilities, Brighton, Whittlesea and Warrandyte.
Ramona Mandy, a past participant, shared the impact in a thank-you letter: “I am writing this three hours after I stepped out from behind the wheel, and I am still grinning from ear to ear.”
Founded by the late Peter Watts, a vision-impaired Lions member, In the Driver’s Seat is funded entirely by Lions fundraising and community support.
It reflects Lions Australia’s ongoing commitment to supporting sight – one of Lions’ eight global causes.
A Speech by Charlize Chow, Leo of the Year 2024
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThis 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.
Morley Leo Club Wins Leo Club Project of the Year
/in LEO, OUR STORIES /by JemmaYoung volunteers from Morley Leo Club are celebrating success after taking out the national title for Leo Project of the Year at the 2025 National Lions Australia Convention.
Leo Clubs are the youth arm of Lions Australia, encouraging leadership, service and personal development in young people aged 12 to 30.
The Morley Leo Club, based at Morley Senior High School in Western Australia, has received national recognition for its work spreading festive cheer to families in need last holiday season.
The project saw over 70 students and 35 teachers and community members come together to prepare and deliver Christmas gift bags for children in shelters and crisis accommodation across Western Australia.
Bags filled with toys, hygiene products, school supplies, and hand-written notes were donated to families supported by services such as Orana House and Divine You Narrogin.
The initiative not only provided much-needed practical support to those in need, but also reminded recipients they were not forgotten during the holiday season.
The Morley Leo Club’s efforts showcased the powerful impact of young Australians leading with compassion, creativity, and community spirit.
“Receiving the national title for Leo Project of the Year at the 2025 Lions National Convention is an incredible honour for our school and for the Morley Leos”, said Ms Rosalba Butterworth, Principal of Morley Senior High School.
“But more importantly, it highlights the real impact that people can have when they come together to serve their community. This project was driven by compassion, teamwork, and a shared belief that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference to someone’s life.”
Lions Australia CEO Rob Oerlemans also congratulated the Morley Leo Club on their achievement.
“The future of service in this country is in safe hands. Leo Clubs are empowering the next generation of changemakers and this project is an outstanding example of the impact young people can have in their communities,” says Rob Oerlemans.
The Morley Leo Club is supported by the Lions Club of Noranda.