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
Ballarat Lions Spread Joy for Childhood Cancer Research
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaFor 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.
Kyogle Lions Food Pantry a Lifeline for Rural Families Doing It Tough
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaFor World Hunger Day on May 28, the Kyogle Lions Club was proud to spotlight the incredible community collaboration behind their local food initiative that now supports nearly 900 families across the Kyogle region.
The project is powered by local kindness – with farmers donating fresh vegetables, community members contributing funds, and local businesses like the chemist and Vinnies providing vouchers.
Together, they turn compassion into action with the Kyogle Lions Community Food Pantry.
L–R: Food Pantry Assistant Manager Emma (Lions member), Kyogle Librarian Sheryl, and Food Pantry Manager Roz (Lions member) accepting a donation from the library.
Kyogle Lion and Pantry Project Coordinator Roz Knights OAM says the project was born when the Club was asked to take over a small 50-square-metre church-run pantry.
“Recognising the growing need in our rural region, the Lions sought out a larger space and thanks to the generosity of a philanthropic landlord, we were able to relocate to a new 220-square-metre site to expand operations,” says Roz Knights OAM.
Since then, the project has grown exponentially. What started with a few helping hands now involves 41 local staff including 11 Lions volunteers, contributing more than 220 hours of service each week to ensure that vulnerable families can access affordable food.
L-R: Food Pantry Assistant Manager and Lion Emma Slaney and staff member Lion Elaine McLean in front of the fruit and vegetable stand.
Each week, the Pantry distributes around 3 tonnes of food, thanks in part to its partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT Limited. Families purchase groceries at dramatically reduced prices – with the food pantry often giving away $300 worth of food for what would otherwise cost over $900 at a major supermarket.
Every client also leaves with free bread and approximately $25 worth of fresh fruit and vegetables, much of it donated by local farmers, home growers, and businesses.
“We’ve grown from a small act of service to a region-wide food network,” adds Roz Knights OAM. “We’re proud to provide a local solution to a growing problem and proud to prove that community spirit is alive and well in Kyogle.”
Some of the Kyogle Food Pantry’s staff members who volunteer some 220 hours per week.
The project is also supported by the Kyogle chemist, Vinnies, local medical centres, schools, and churches, who refer families and offer voucher programs. Donations flow in from the cinema, library, op shops, schools, and individuals supporting this important Lions project.
Hunger is one of Lions Club’s key global focus areas.
Well done to all involved in this incredible and life-changing project, helping those who need it most.
Helping Kids One Lunch at a Time
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaFood insecurity is a very real issue in the Hunter region, with 1 in 4 school children going to school without lunch.
That’s where Eat Up Australia steps in – and thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers from local Lions and Rotary clubs, the “Eat Up Lunches” project is making a real difference.
Members from the Lions Clubs of Toronto, Morisset Incorporated, East Maitland, Warners Bay, Cessnock, Maitland, and Jesmond, along with the Rotary Club of Newcastle Enterprise, recently joined forces to prepare and pack an incredible 1,860 sandwiches.
These were delivered to 34 local schools, helping ensure students have something to eat during the school day.
This impressive effort happens 12 times a year, with volunteers giving their time to help reduce food insecurity in their community.
The Jesmond Lions Club has also been busy. Members recently visited Jesmond Public School and met with Principal Holly Foot to discuss additional support.
The club has pledged $10,000 to fund new shade sails, giving students a comfortable space to learn outdoors.
They also introduced the Lions Eye Health Program and its children’s visions screening program, and shared more about the Eat Up initiative. The school has now booked a visit from the Eye Health team and applied to officially join the Eat Up program.
The Club welcomed Principal Foot as the guest speaker at their Club Dinner Meeting, where she shared more about the school’s involvement and the positive impact of these programs.
Well done to all for their continued dedication to supporting local families and children.
Tiny Cells, Big Hope: How Lions Are Powering Lifesaving Cord Blood Research
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaEvery year, thousands of Australian families face the unthinkable: a child diagnosed with a life-threatening illness like leukemia or a rare genetic disorder. For many, the best chance at a cure comes from a stem cell transplant. That’s where cord blood – rich in stem cells collected at birth – can be the difference between life and death.
Thanks to the Lions Cord Blood Foundation, lifesaving treatments and world-leading research are being made possible.
Members of the Lions Cord Blood Foundation attend Monash Children’s Hospital.
In 2024 alone, the Foundation helped fund the collection and storage of donated cord blood, ensuring that more families have access to transplants when they need them most.
But the impact doesn’t stop there.
The Foundation also supports the next generation of medical leaders – like Dr Abdul Razak, whose PhD scholarship was funded by the Lions Cord Blood Foundation.
Dr Razak recently completed his research at Monash University, exploring how to improve recovery after cord blood transplants in children. His findings, now published in international journals, could dramatically enhance outcomes for children facing cancer and other life-threatening conditions.
Dr Razak’s journey – from scholarship recipient to contributor of world-class research – is a powerful reminder of the ripple effect Lions can create.
For over two decades, Lions clubs across Victoria and Tasmania have raised millions for this cause. Every fundraising sausage sizzle, trivia night, and donation drive helps give seriously ill children another shot at life.
Together, we’re not just supporting research – we’re delivering futures.
You can learn more about The Lions Cord Blood Foundation here.
To view the 2024 Scholarship Impact Report in full, click here.
Lions Women Set Sights on Everest for Children in Need
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaA courageous team of 18 Lions women from around the globe are preparing to trek to Everest Base Camp from April 18–28 2025, as part of the Kili4Kids initiative – a powerful international Lions Clubs project supporting children in underdeveloped communities.
Among them is Sheryl Keppler, President of the Australian Online and Travellers Lions Club, who will proudly represent Lions Australia and place the Australian flag at Base Camp. Invited by Past International President Barry Palmer, Sheryl has been actively fundraising for the cause in the lead-up to the journey.
Lion Sheryl Keppler is presented with the Australian flag to place at Everest Base Camp.
Kili4Kids is more than just a climb – it’s a mission. Each year, the group raises $100,000 USD to build a school in the country where they climb, supported by the Lions Clubs International Foundation. The women of Kili4Kids are strong, determined, and united by a common goal: to protect and uplift children facing injustice and hardship.
This year’s challenge will fund the rebuild of Shree S.S Sirathauli School in Nepal and may also make history – if the team reaches Everest Base Camp, they’ll be entered into the Guinness Book of Records.
Good luck to Sheryl and all the inspiring Lions women taking part in this incredible adventure for a cause that truly matters. You can find out more about Kili4Kids here.
Lions Support Recycle for Sight with New Partnership
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook has formed an exciting new partnership with a Sydney Recycling Centre based in Thornleigh.
This collaboration will enhance the collection of used spectacles for the Lions Recycle for Sight Australia program.
Members of the West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook Lions Club.
The Thornleigh Recycling Centre will now act as an official collection point, making it even easier for community members to donate their used glasses.
A designated collection bin has been installed at the Centre, located at 29 Sefton Rd, Thornleigh NSW, where members of the public can drop off their old spectacles to give the gift of sight to those in need.
For many years, the Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook has been a strong supporter of the Lions Recycle for Sight initiative, collecting tens of thousands of used spectacles.
These donated glasses are refurbished and distributed to individuals who cannot afford proper eyewear. The impact of this program is far-reaching, with Lions Clubs across Australia responding to requests from humanitarian organisations that deliver glasses to developing countries.
Since its inception 26 years ago, Lions Recycle for Sight Australia has provided over seven million pairs of quality refurbished spectacles to men, women, and children in need across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, East Asia, China, the Pacific Rim, and Southern Asia.
In the past decade, members of the Lions Marine Branch have even used their oceangoing yachts to reach remote villages, where they test eyesight and distribute much-needed spectacles to isolated communities.
This new partnership between the Lions Club of West Pennant Hills & Cherrybrook and the Thornleigh Recycling Centre will ensure even more people can contribute to this life-changing initiative.
If you have used spectacles at home, consider donating them today – your simple act of kindness could change someone’s life.
Find out how to donate your glasses here.
Cronulla Lions Club Delivers Life-Saving Humidicrib to Sutherland Hospital
/in NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Cronulla Lions Club has proudly delivered a state-of-the-art Babyleo TN500 Humidicrib to the Sutherland Hospital Maternity Unit, ensuring the best possible care for premature babies.
Pictured L to R: Dominic Anthony – Nurse Unit Manager, Brian Cowan – Cronulla Lions Vice President, David Gittus – Cronulla Lions Secretary and Simone Payn – Nursing Midwifery and Operations Director.
This vital piece of neonatal equipment, valued at $65,000, was made possible through a collaborative effort with Oatley, Lugano, Kogarah, Blacktown Ponds, and Sydney Host Lions Clubs, along with a generous $15,000 grant from the Australian Lions Foundation.
Simone Payn, Nursing Midwifery and Operations Director at Sutherland Hospital, expressed her gratitude, highlighting the importance of the Humidicrib in providing critical support to premature newborns. It protects premature babies so they can grow, using a combination of three heat sources, while also allowing for quick and comfortable access for medical staff.
Remarkably, this new Humidicrib replaces one that was originally donated by the Cronulla Lions Club a decade ago and had reached the end of its service life. The club’s continued commitment to improving neonatal care ensures that the region’s most vulnerable infants receive the best start in life.
The Cronulla Lions Club remains dedicated to addressing local community needs through various projects, particularly those focused on children’s and babies’ health.
To learn more about the Cronulla Lions Club and how you can support their work, follow them on social media.
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 NEWS, 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!