Echuca Lions Club has donated $20,000 to a new Cancer and Wellness Centre for the Victorian town.
The $8.3 million centre will deliver a new chemotherapy and haemodialysis unit to the area, as well as provide wellness programs to help improve the health and well-being of cancer patients.
With several members of Echuca Lions Club having been touched by cancer themselves, this project was particularly close to their hearts.
“It means something to all of us,” said Lion Laurie Stewart.
“I had pancreatic cancer, John had prostate cancer, and Graeme had bladder cancer.”
Half the money was raised at the Club’s annual golf day in March, and the Australian Lions Foundation (ALF) provided the rest through a matching grant.
Lion John Hewlett says the Club is grateful for the community getting behind the cause.
“We know it’s been a difficult time for a lot of local businesses after all the lockdowns, so we really appreciate the support,” he said.
Work on Echuca Cancer and Wellness Centre began in August 2021 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/download-_2_.jpg13151600Emily Williamshttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngEmily Williams2022-12-16 09:23:582022-12-16 09:23:58Echuca Lions Club donate to local cancer centre
Over the next two years, The Lions Cord Blood Foundation will provide Monash Children’s Hospital in Victoria with $50,000 for neo-natal cell therapy research.
Announced in August, the grant will go towards improving outcomes for vulnerable babies by utilising the “reparative, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative potential of cell therapies”.
Cord blood is the blood that is found in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. As a rich and diverse source of stem cells, this blood can be used for children and adults requiring bone marrow transplants.
The Lions Cord Blood Foundation was established in 1996 by Laurie Denton, a member of the Lions Club of Waverly in V5 and has raised more than $2.3 million for the Fight Cancer Foundation.
Ron Tregear, Chairman (3rd from left) & Pat Mills, Association Secretary (4th from left), Lions Cord Blood Foundation along with members of Newborn Cell Therapies group
Chairperson of the Foundation, Ron Tregear, says this research is “particularly rewarding”.
“It will involve bringing extremely premature babies into the world potentially in better health than they may have otherwise been,” he said.
Associate Professor Atul Mahlotra says he is grateful to the Foundation.
“This will directly feed into our cell therapies clinical trial pipeline including one study currently recruiting extremely preterm babies to investigate feasibility and safety of autologous cord blood cell therapy,” he said.
In Australia, cord blood has been used to treat over 80 conditions, including cancers, blood disorders, immune disorders and metabolic disorders.
You can learn more about The Lions Cord Blood Foundation here.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Untitled-design-23.png300700Emily Williamshttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngEmily Williams2022-12-15 09:23:222022-12-15 09:23:22Lions Foundation doing a bloody good job
In times of crisis, Lions Clubs do what they can to make a difference and that’s exactly what local volunteers are doing right now to support the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Funds raised by Lions across Sydney have helped establish the new modern modular Warsaw Information Centre and Medical Clinic in front of the Ukraine Consulate in Warsaw.
The project is being led by Hornsby Lions Club with director John Lockyer gearing up for his next visit to Poland and encouraging anyone looking to support Ukrainian refugees to make a donation.
“The conflict in the Ukraine has devastated so many lives. Many Lions volunteers are doing whatever they can to support those impacted and we need your help,” says John.
Lions Clubs across Sydney set a goal of raising $10,000 for Lions Warsaw to set up a Warsaw Information Centre modular in front of the consulate.
Lion John Lockyer in Warsaw with Ukrainian refugees.
“As a result of exceeding our $10,000 by raising $5000 more, Lions Warsaw also secured an additional modular office that is being used as a medical clinic. The central purpose of this medical clinic is to provide health support to Ukrainian children/families at the Lions Information Centre.”
“Now thousands of Ukrainian refugees that are seeking assistance at the consulate can be interviewed by Lions Warsaw Volunteers without any concern of the extreme bitter cold and wet conditions.
The harsh Polish winter will return and we are pleased to support Warsaw Lions volunteers with the provision of secure, warm modern offices so that refugees can be adequately interviewed,” says John.
John Lockyer from the Hornsby Lions Club on site for the build of the new Information Centre and Medical Clinic in Warsaw.
“I am returning to Poland to review progress at the Ukrainian Consulate in Warsaw and then plan to review progress on the plan by Lions Warsaw to establish similar facilities in the Gdansk, Wroclaw, Krakow and Lublin.”
“We’re encouraging anyone who would like to make a difference to consider making a donation. Every dollar counts,” adds John.
Donations can be made to: DG Vin Pang Endorsed Warsaw/Ukraine Lions Appeal
BSB : 032055 A/c: 163233
In addition to local Lions projects and initiatives in Australia, the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has now provided over US$1,735,000 in grants to support Ukrainian refugees who have crossed their borders.
Lions in Ukraine have also received LCIF grants to address the critical needs of people who remain in the country.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Feature-Image-for-Blog.jpg621885Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-12-14 14:54:112022-12-16 09:54:17Sydney Lions are supporting Ukrainian refugees and they need your help
To mark World Diabetes Day this year, Lions Clubs across Australia were on a mission to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with their annual Lap the Map for Diabetes event.
Diabetes is one of the Lions’ key global focus areas with Lions members encouraging those in their community to stay active.
Lions volunteers across the country put on their walking shoes with the aim to have a combined distance travelled that exceeds Australia’s circumference (25,760 kms) by World Diabetes Day.
This year, Lions not only lapped the map once, but reported a combined distance of 261,704 kms, over 10 times the distance of Australia’s circumference.
Maroochy North Shore Lions host their Lap the Map for Diabetes event.
National Diabetes Coordinator Pat Mills says this is an incredible result for Diabetes awareness.
“The ‘Lions Lap the Map’ family friendly walks and campaigns in the community encourage people to get outside and have a walk to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the Diabetes epidemic in Australia.”
“Across Australia 1.3 million people have been diagnosed with Diabetes and 283 people are diagnosed every day,” says Pat.
“The disease can lead to serious health issues affecting the heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves and teeth. In most high-income countries, Diabetes is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. It’s expected to affect 629 million adults by 2045.”
“With more people working from home and more communities living with tighter social restrictions since COVID-19, it’s more important than ever for Australians to stay active and healthy so we encourage people to get involved in our Lap the Map activities,” she adds.
See all the photos from Lap the Map for Diabetes 2022 on Facebook here.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/DIABETES-C19.jpg10021500adminhttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngadmin2022-12-13 02:07:532022-12-16 10:00:39Australia’s largest service organisation is on a mission to reduce prevalence of Diabetes
The festive season is just around the corner and Australia’s favourite Christmas treat will not only be on the menu this year, but also on the Christmas playlist.
Sold by volunteers in their local communities, Lions Australia’s Christmas cakes are renowned not only for exceptional flavour and quality, but also for warming the heart.
The cake that has become a tradition in thousands of Australian homes has now also inspired a song.
Twin brothers, John and Graeme, are one of Australia’s leading country music/easy listening acts. The Howie Brothers have written and recorded a song celebrating the much loved and important tradition of Lions Christmas cakes.
The Howie Brothers have written a song about the Lions Christmas Cake.
“John and myself are not members of a Lions club but we have had and still do have many connections with Lions club members. We think very highly of Lions people and the Lions organisation and support it wherever possible,” says Graeme Howie.
Perfected over the years, the traditional Lions Australia Christmas cake recipe is packed with high quality ingredients and 50% fruit, but there’s one magic ingredient in this cake that sets it apart from the rest.
The Lions Christmas Cake makes a difference. With all proceeds going back to Lions Clubs and initiatives across the country, the cakes help fund a range of vital projects in the community.
Christmas cakes and puddings are Lions Australia’s largest annual fundraiser. Since the first 1-pound cake was introduced in 1965 the fundraiser has raised over $60 million to help drive community programs and projects across Australia. Australia’s appetite for the Christmas sweet is still strong with over 600,000 Christmas cakes and puddings sold last year. Sales are already up by 6000 sales this year.
“Lions Christmas Cakes have become a tradition in Australian households. This isn’t just because they are renowned for quality and taste but because when buying a Lions cake you know you are supporting a good cause and making a difference. Each club that takes part in the program makes a profit that they can either use on a Lions project or donate back into their local communities,” says Lions Australia CEO Rob Oerlemans.
The Lions Christmas cake sales help fund the incredible work of the organisation in communities across Australia. In addition to disaster relief Lions Clubs drive a range of community service projects and initiatives ranging from youth programs, medical research, aid to people with disability and environmental work.
To purchase a Lions Christmas cake or pudding, click here.
“THE LIONS CHRISTMAS CAKE” – Words & Music: Graeme Howie
1. Buy A Lions Christmas Cake, They Taste Really Yum Leave Some Out For Santa, And He Will Rub His Tum They’ll Ask On Christmas Day, “Did It Take You Long To Bake?” And You’ll Say, “No, Not Long, It’s A Lions Christmas Cake”
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate! In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
2. The Lions Clubs Around Australia, They Work Hard All Year With Sausage Sizzles, Car Boot Sales, They Work To Bring Good Cheer And As We Head For Christmas, They Mix Raisin, Flour & Date For We All Love, What They Bake, The Lions Christmas Cake
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate! In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
3. So When You’re Out There Shopping, Stop & Have A Chat And If You See Those Lions Cakes, Say, “I’ll Have One Of That!” Then ‘Round The Christmas Table, Your Loved Ones All Will Say, “It’s So Wonderful At Christmastime With A Lions Christmas Cake”
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate! In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
TAG: Yes It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/The-Howie-Brothers-Facebook-Post.jpg788940Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-11-29 10:29:042022-12-16 10:17:33Australia’s favourite Christmas cake has inspired a song
If you would like to help our community-spirited and trustworthy organisation through either a donation, membership or in a corporate capacity, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.png00Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-11-22 16:46:322023-01-17 12:39:08Lions Awareness Day Quick Links – help us make us a difference
It was a great day for the Narooma & District Lions Club on the 23rd of October 2022 as they saw the culmination of 2 years’ work by their Club President, Ricci Bishop, in bringing to completion their replacement BBQ Trailer and the erection of a new shed in which to garage it.
This was a doubly auspicious day as it was also the Club’s Charter Anniversary (1976).
Narooma & District Lions Club President with the new BBQ Trailer
Ricci was successful in securing two grants following the Black Summer Bushfires – the first being from St Vincent de Paul Conference and the second a Federal Grant, the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund (BCRRF).
From the adverse situation of the Black Summer bush fires at Narooma, it was realized that there was a need to have a completely independent food supply BBQ trailer that had the capability to provide it’s own refrigeration, lighting, hot & cold food and water, as well as be a source of power for other needs.
The trailer can now act as an adjunct to the needs of front line emergency respondents as well as being used at evacuation centres.
The shed is also a great asset with enough space to house all the Club’s Lions gear in one place – for many Clubs, it is the stuff dreams are made of!
Celebration ceremony: Smoking the shed and trailer
The Club’s celebrations included a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by First Nations’ Muladha Gamara, and a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Hon. Dr. Michael Holland MP and St Vincent de Paul Conference representative Mrs. Marea Clark at Easts Caravan Park.
This was followed by a Luncheon at the Narooma Sports & Leisure Centre (Narooma’s designated Evacuation Centre at the time) where a small display of photos were on view.
Image display of the Bush Fire Evacuation Centre from the 1.1.2020
The Club sincerely thanked and acknowledged the contribution from the Australian BCRRF and St Vincent de Paul Conference.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/front-right-BBQs-pulled-out-tow-bar-area-enlarged-1.jpg9601280Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-11-11 11:07:212022-11-11 15:09:36Narooma Lions upgrade BBQ trailer to assist in disaster relief
Australia has experienced major flooding for the fifth time in 19 months due to record-breaking wet weather. The wet conditions are expected to last until 2023.
As the effects of climate change induced disasters continue to devastate communities, we need volunteers now more than ever.
When disaster strikes, Lions volunteers are the first to offer support and that’s exactly what is happening as communities across Australia face flooding yet again.
Members of the Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn have been cooking meals for those who have been displaced due to the emergency while other Lions have been assisting with the flood clean up or raising money for the Australian Lions Foundation National Flood Appeal.
“October has been another month of heavy rainfall with flood warnings for communities across QLD, NSW, Victoria and Tasmania. The Australian Lions Foundation has launched a national appeal to help support those affected communities,” says Australian Lions Foundation Chairperson Tony Benbow OAM.
“Every dollar raised will be sent directly to Lions Clubs on the ground in affected communities to provide emergency support to those impacted.”
“This is why Lions is so effective in times of need. Every dollar donated goes directly to the cause and through Lions’ large network of clubs we are able to quickly identify those who require assistance and find the best and most efficient ways of supporting those people and communities.”
Lions based in Seymour, Shepparton, and Mooroopna loan high-pressure water blasters, hoses, power leads, brooms, and squeegees to the community to assist in the flood clean-up.
“A key focus for our clubs in recent months has been supporting flood affected communities particularly in Northern NSW. Lismore was actually the birthplace of Lions in Australia with Lismore Lions Club founded in September 1947,” adds Tony.
“We know the road to recovery is a long one after a disaster. Our volunteers are still going above and beyond to help communities rebuild after the devastating bushfires of 2019/2020 and we will see the same with flood affected communities.”
Lions have been providing emergency support to Australian communities for decades. Over $4.6 million was raised and distributed in the recent Australian Lions Foundation National Bushfire Appeal and $1.9 million was raised and distributed to Flood Support last year.
Anyone looking to make a donation and support those affected by the floods can do so through their local Lions Club or through donating directly to Australian Lions Foundation.
The Australian Lions Foundation has been providing grants for disaster relief, compassionate support and community initiatives since the 1980’s. Every year the Foundation distributes more than $1 million for projects through local Lions Clubs.
The Foundation Directors are all Lion volunteers who do not receive any income for their efforts.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Seymour-Goulburn-Lions-Cook-Meals-for-Displaced-flood-victims.jpg15362048Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-11-11 10:30:202022-11-11 14:49:50Lions volunteers mobilise to support flood affected communities
The countdown is on for World Diabetes Day on Monday the 14th of November and the life of 30-year-old diabetic Eliza has been changed thanks to her new special four-legged companion.
18 month old, Labradoodle ‘Sal’, is the first Diabetic Alert Dog to be trained and placed in the new Australian Lions Medical Alert Dog program.
Sal has undertaken over 12 months of training and was delivered to her new home last week.
Since the 1980s Lions has provided over 650 Assistance Dogs to deaf or hard of hearing Australians. The new Lions Diabetic Alert Dogs are being trained to alert to low blood sugar levels in asymptomatic type 1 diabetics.
“This year marks 40 years since we delivered our first Hearing Assistance Dog. We’re delighted to be celebrating another milestone with the placement of our first Australian Lions Diabetic Alert Dog,” says Australian Lions Hearing Dogs CEO David Horne.
“Over 120,000 Australians currently suffer from type 1 diabetes, and each year 580 Australians die from the disease, many under the age of 18. Diabetic Alert Dogs have the potential to save the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, and drastically improve their quality of life,” adds David Horne.
Lions Diabetic Alert Dogs are trained to indicate by touching one paw to their owner’s leg when they are experiencing a Hypoglycaemic event (low blood sugar).
Additionally, these intelligent dogs are trained to perform helpful tasks such as retrieving a Hypokit to help treat a low or high blood glucose event, seeking assistance from another member in the household on command, and pressing an alert button to call emergency services if their owner falls unconscious when they are home alone.
“Technology has come a long way in the management of type 1 diabetes, but it doesn’t often give you the peace of mind you need. Having Sal as my Diabetic Alert Dog removes the anxiety and fear of the dangers of hypoglycaemia (or low blood sugars) and will help me sleep easier at night,” says Eliza.
Lions’ first Diabetic Alert Dog, Sal. Image Credit: ABC News.
“It’s been an amazing week, both Sal and I getting to know each other and working together. Sal is already alerting to a low blood sugar event, and able to bring me treatment (glucose source) on command which is really exciting,” she adds.
Each year Australian Lions Hearing Dogs train and provide anywhere from 25-30 Assistance Dogs around the country. It’s the only Australian organisation accredited by Assistance Dogs International to carry out such work, each dog free of charge.
The organisation is expanding to ensure it can provide much needed assistance to more Australians.
“We’re very excited to be redeveloping our National Training Centre in Adelaide and will soon have capacity to train up to 120 Assistance Dogs per year,” says CEO David Horne.
Each Assistance Dog costs upward of $37,000 to train and provide to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, or living with type 1 diabetes, and with support of Lions Clubs and donations from members of the public, the dogs are gifted to recipients free of charge.
The placement of the first Lions Diabetic Alert Dog also coincides with Lions Australia’s Lap the Map campaign where volunteers across the country are putting on their walking shoes with an aim of walking a combined distance that will exceed Australia’s circumference (25,760 kms) by World Diabetes Day on the 14th of November.
For more information on the Australian Lions Medical Alert Dog Program, click here.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screenshot-197.png786786Jemmahttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngJemma2022-11-09 15:39:092024-01-10 16:51:32A special dog to assist Australians with Diabetes
The Lions Club of Quilters Victoria in District V1-4 have undertaken their most ambitious project yet, the International Quilt Challenge.
As part of their principle project, the Australian Quilt & Textile Collection (AQTC), the Club is requesting quilters of all skill levels from across the world to get involved.
The ‘Our World – Coming Together’ International Quilt challenge is a celebration of the global community, with 40cm x 40cm entries to be based on aspects of its creator’s home country.
An entry by Brenda Gael Smith, representing a Norfolk Pine. Image: Supplied
The final product, which the Club expects to feature several-hundred entries, will be on exhibition at the Lions Clubs International Convention held in Melbourne in 2024.
The quilts will also be exhibited at Pour l’Amour du Fil in Nantes, France, in April 2025.
Australian quilt artist, Gloria Loughman, recognised across the world for her landscape quilts, has taken on the role of Ambassador for the International Quilt Challenge.
“There has never been a better time to come together, as one, through quilting,” she said.
After exhibition, the quilts will be permanently acquired by the Lions Club of Quilters Victoria’s AQTC which aims to preserve the diversity of quilts and their stories.
Final quilt entries are due by November 2023.
You can learn more about the International Quilt Challenge, including how to get involved, here.
https://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/299013685_3344931965786983_5726657250984793804_n-e1667866727937.jpg8521438Emily Williamshttps://lionsclubs.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/lions-menu-logo.pngEmily Williams2022-11-09 13:27:052022-11-09 13:27:05Lions Club of Quilters Victoria stitches the world together
Echuca Lions Club donate to local cancer centre
/in DONATIONS, HEALTH, OUR STORIES /by Emily WilliamsBY EMILY WILLIAMS
Echuca Lions Club has donated $20,000 to a new Cancer and Wellness Centre for the Victorian town.
The $8.3 million centre will deliver a new chemotherapy and haemodialysis unit to the area, as well as provide wellness programs to help improve the health and well-being of cancer patients.
With several members of Echuca Lions Club having been touched by cancer themselves, this project was particularly close to their hearts.
“It means something to all of us,” said Lion Laurie Stewart.
“I had pancreatic cancer, John had prostate cancer, and Graeme had bladder cancer.”
Half the money was raised at the Club’s annual golf day in March, and the Australian Lions Foundation (ALF) provided the rest through a matching grant.
Lion John Hewlett says the Club is grateful for the community getting behind the cause.
“We know it’s been a difficult time for a lot of local businesses after all the lockdowns, so we really appreciate the support,” he said.
Work on Echuca Cancer and Wellness Centre began in August 2021 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Original Story from the Riverine Herald, here.
Lions Foundation doing a bloody good job
/in DONATIONS, HEALTH, OUR STORIES, RESEARCH & INNOVATION /by Emily WilliamsBY EMILY WILLIAMS
Over the next two years, The Lions Cord Blood Foundation will provide Monash Children’s Hospital in Victoria with $50,000 for neo-natal cell therapy research.
Announced in August, the grant will go towards improving outcomes for vulnerable babies by utilising the “reparative, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative potential of cell therapies”.
Cord blood is the blood that is found in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. As a rich and diverse source of stem cells, this blood can be used for children and adults requiring bone marrow transplants.
The Lions Cord Blood Foundation was established in 1996 by Laurie Denton, a member of the Lions Club of Waverly in V5 and has raised more than $2.3 million for the Fight Cancer Foundation.
Ron Tregear, Chairman (3rd from left) & Pat Mills, Association Secretary (4th from left), Lions Cord Blood Foundation along with members of Newborn Cell Therapies group
Chairperson of the Foundation, Ron Tregear, says this research is “particularly rewarding”.
“It will involve bringing extremely premature babies into the world potentially in better health than they may have otherwise been,” he said.
Associate Professor Atul Mahlotra says he is grateful to the Foundation.
“This will directly feed into our cell therapies clinical trial pipeline including one study currently recruiting extremely preterm babies to investigate feasibility and safety of autologous cord blood cell therapy,” he said.
In Australia, cord blood has been used to treat over 80 conditions, including cancers, blood disorders, immune disorders and metabolic disorders.
You can learn more about The Lions Cord Blood Foundation here.
Sydney Lions are supporting Ukrainian refugees and they need your help
/in HUMANITARIAN, OUR STORIES /by JemmaIn times of crisis, Lions Clubs do what they can to make a difference and that’s exactly what local volunteers are doing right now to support the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Funds raised by Lions across Sydney have helped establish the new modern modular Warsaw Information Centre and Medical Clinic in front of the Ukraine Consulate in Warsaw.
The project is being led by Hornsby Lions Club with director John Lockyer gearing up for his next visit to Poland and encouraging anyone looking to support Ukrainian refugees to make a donation.
“The conflict in the Ukraine has devastated so many lives. Many Lions volunteers are doing whatever they can to support those impacted and we need your help,” says John.
Lions Clubs across Sydney set a goal of raising $10,000 for Lions Warsaw to set up a Warsaw Information Centre modular in front of the consulate.
Lion John Lockyer in Warsaw with Ukrainian refugees.
“As a result of exceeding our $10,000 by raising $5000 more, Lions Warsaw also secured an additional modular office that is being used as a medical clinic. The central purpose of this medical clinic is to provide health support to Ukrainian children/families at the Lions Information Centre.”
“Now thousands of Ukrainian refugees that are seeking assistance at the consulate can be interviewed by Lions Warsaw Volunteers without any concern of the extreme bitter cold and wet conditions.
The harsh Polish winter will return and we are pleased to support Warsaw Lions volunteers with the provision of secure, warm modern offices so that refugees can be adequately interviewed,” says John.
John Lockyer from the Hornsby Lions Club on site for the build of the new Information Centre and Medical Clinic in Warsaw.
“I am returning to Poland to review progress at the Ukrainian Consulate in Warsaw and then plan to review progress on the plan by Lions Warsaw to establish similar facilities in the Gdansk, Wroclaw, Krakow and Lublin.”
“We’re encouraging anyone who would like to make a difference to consider making a donation. Every dollar counts,” adds John.
Donations can be made to: DG Vin Pang Endorsed Warsaw/Ukraine Lions Appeal
BSB : 032055 A/c: 163233
In addition to local Lions projects and initiatives in Australia, the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has now provided over US$1,735,000 in grants to support Ukrainian refugees who have crossed their borders.
Lions in Ukraine have also received LCIF grants to address the critical needs of people who remain in the country.
Australia’s largest service organisation is on a mission to reduce prevalence of Diabetes
/in HEALTH, NEWS /by adminTo mark World Diabetes Day this year, Lions Clubs across Australia were on a mission to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with their annual Lap the Map for Diabetes event.
Diabetes is one of the Lions’ key global focus areas with Lions members encouraging those in their community to stay active.
Lions volunteers across the country put on their walking shoes with the aim to have a combined distance travelled that exceeds Australia’s circumference (25,760 kms) by World Diabetes Day.
This year, Lions not only lapped the map once, but reported a combined distance of 261,704 kms, over 10 times the distance of Australia’s circumference.
Maroochy North Shore Lions host their Lap the Map for Diabetes event.
National Diabetes Coordinator Pat Mills says this is an incredible result for Diabetes awareness.
“The ‘Lions Lap the Map’ family friendly walks and campaigns in the community encourage people to get outside and have a walk to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the Diabetes epidemic in Australia.”
“Across Australia 1.3 million people have been diagnosed with Diabetes and 283 people are diagnosed every day,” says Pat.
“The disease can lead to serious health issues affecting the heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves and teeth. In most high-income countries, Diabetes is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. It’s expected to affect 629 million adults by 2045.”
“With more people working from home and more communities living with tighter social restrictions since COVID-19, it’s more important than ever for Australians to stay active and healthy so we encourage people to get involved in our Lap the Map activities,” she adds.
See all the photos from Lap the Map for Diabetes 2022 on Facebook here.
Australia’s favourite Christmas cake has inspired a song
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe festive season is just around the corner and Australia’s favourite Christmas treat will not only be on the menu this year, but also on the Christmas playlist.
Sold by volunteers in their local communities, Lions Australia’s Christmas cakes are renowned not only for exceptional flavour and quality, but also for warming the heart.
The cake that has become a tradition in thousands of Australian homes has now also inspired a song.
Twin brothers, John and Graeme, are one of Australia’s leading country music/easy listening acts. The Howie Brothers have written and recorded a song celebrating the much loved and important tradition of Lions Christmas cakes.
The Howie Brothers have written a song about the Lions Christmas Cake.
“John and myself are not members of a Lions club but we have had and still do have many connections with Lions club members. We think very highly of Lions people and the Lions organisation and support it wherever possible,” says Graeme Howie.
Perfected over the years, the traditional Lions Australia Christmas cake recipe is packed with high quality ingredients and 50% fruit, but there’s one magic ingredient in this cake that sets it apart from the rest.
The Lions Christmas Cake makes a difference. With all proceeds going back to Lions Clubs and initiatives across the country, the cakes help fund a range of vital projects in the community.
Christmas cakes and puddings are Lions Australia’s largest annual fundraiser. Since the first 1-pound cake was introduced in 1965 the fundraiser has raised over $60 million to help drive community programs and projects across Australia. Australia’s appetite for the Christmas sweet is still strong with over 600,000 Christmas cakes and puddings sold last year. Sales are already up by 6000 sales this year.
“Lions Christmas Cakes have become a tradition in Australian households. This isn’t just because they are renowned for quality and taste but because when buying a Lions cake you know you are supporting a good cause and making a difference. Each club that takes part in the program makes a profit that they can either use on a Lions project or donate back into their local communities,” says Lions Australia CEO Rob Oerlemans.
The Lions Christmas cake sales help fund the incredible work of the organisation in communities across Australia. In addition to disaster relief Lions Clubs drive a range of community service projects and initiatives ranging from youth programs, medical research, aid to people with disability and environmental work.
To purchase a Lions Christmas cake or pudding, click here.
“THE LIONS CHRISTMAS CAKE” – Words & Music: Graeme Howie
1. Buy A Lions Christmas Cake, They Taste Really Yum
Leave Some Out For Santa, And He Will Rub His Tum
They’ll Ask On Christmas Day, “Did It Take You Long To Bake?”
And You’ll Say, “No, Not Long, It’s A Lions Christmas Cake”
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate!
In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate
So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four
It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
2. The Lions Clubs Around Australia, They Work Hard All Year
With Sausage Sizzles, Car Boot Sales, They Work To Bring Good Cheer
And As We Head For Christmas, They Mix Raisin, Flour & Date
For We All Love, What They Bake, The Lions Christmas Cake
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate!
In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate
So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four
It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
3. So When You’re Out There Shopping, Stop & Have A Chat
And If You See Those Lions Cakes, Say, “I’ll Have One Of That!”
Then ‘Round The Christmas Table, Your Loved Ones All Will Say,
“It’s So Wonderful At Christmastime With A Lions Christmas Cake”
CH. The Lions Christmas Cake, It’s An Institution Mate!
In Ev’ry Home Across Australia, On Ev’ry Christmas Plate
So Don’t Just Buy One, Buy Two Or Three Or Four
It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
TAG: Yes It Helps Out In So Many Ways, The Lions Christmas Cake
Lions Awareness Day Quick Links – help us make us a difference
/in Uncategorized /by JemmaIf you would like to help our community-spirited and trustworthy organisation through either a donation, membership or in a corporate capacity, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Narooma Lions upgrade BBQ trailer to assist in disaster relief
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaIt was a great day for the Narooma & District Lions Club on the 23rd of October 2022 as they saw the culmination of 2 years’ work by their Club President, Ricci Bishop, in bringing to completion their replacement BBQ Trailer and the erection of a new shed in which to garage it.
This was a doubly auspicious day as it was also the Club’s Charter Anniversary (1976).
Narooma & District Lions Club President with the new BBQ Trailer
Ricci was successful in securing two grants following the Black Summer Bushfires – the first being from St Vincent de Paul Conference and the second a Federal Grant, the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund (BCRRF).
From the adverse situation of the Black Summer bush fires at Narooma, it was realized that there was a need to have a completely independent food supply BBQ trailer that had the capability to provide it’s own refrigeration, lighting, hot & cold food and water, as well as be a source of power for other needs.
The trailer can now act as an adjunct to the needs of front line emergency respondents as well as being used at evacuation centres.
The shed is also a great asset with enough space to house all the Club’s Lions gear in one place – for many Clubs, it is the stuff dreams are made of!
Celebration ceremony: Smoking the shed and trailer
The Club’s celebrations included a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony by First Nations’ Muladha Gamara, and a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Hon. Dr. Michael Holland MP and St Vincent de Paul Conference representative Mrs. Marea Clark at Easts Caravan Park.
This was followed by a Luncheon at the Narooma Sports & Leisure Centre (Narooma’s designated Evacuation Centre at the time) where a small display of photos were on view.
Image display of the Bush Fire Evacuation Centre from the 1.1.2020
The Club sincerely thanked and acknowledged the contribution from the Australian BCRRF and St Vincent de Paul Conference.
Lions volunteers mobilise to support flood affected communities
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaAustralia has experienced major flooding for the fifth time in 19 months due to record-breaking wet weather. The wet conditions are expected to last until 2023.
As the effects of climate change induced disasters continue to devastate communities, we need volunteers now more than ever.
When disaster strikes, Lions volunteers are the first to offer support and that’s exactly what is happening as communities across Australia face flooding yet again.
Members of the Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn have been cooking meals for those who have been displaced due to the emergency while other Lions have been assisting with the flood clean up or raising money for the Australian Lions Foundation National Flood Appeal.
“October has been another month of heavy rainfall with flood warnings for communities across QLD, NSW, Victoria and Tasmania. The Australian Lions Foundation has launched a national appeal to help support those affected communities,” says Australian Lions Foundation Chairperson Tony Benbow OAM.
“Every dollar raised will be sent directly to Lions Clubs on the ground in affected communities to provide emergency support to those impacted.”
“This is why Lions is so effective in times of need. Every dollar donated goes directly to the cause and through Lions’ large network of clubs we are able to quickly identify those who require assistance and find the best and most efficient ways of supporting those people and communities.”
Lions based in Seymour, Shepparton, and Mooroopna loan high-pressure water blasters, hoses, power leads, brooms, and squeegees to the community to assist in the flood clean-up.
“A key focus for our clubs in recent months has been supporting flood affected communities particularly in Northern NSW. Lismore was actually the birthplace of Lions in Australia with Lismore Lions Club founded in September 1947,” adds Tony.
“We know the road to recovery is a long one after a disaster. Our volunteers are still going above and beyond to help communities rebuild after the devastating bushfires of 2019/2020 and we will see the same with flood affected communities.”
Lions have been providing emergency support to Australian communities for decades. Over $4.6 million was raised and distributed in the recent Australian Lions Foundation National Bushfire Appeal and $1.9 million was raised and distributed to Flood Support last year.
Anyone looking to make a donation and support those affected by the floods can do so through their local Lions Club or through donating directly to Australian Lions Foundation.
To make a donation visit https://www.givenow.com.au/australianlionsfoundation
All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
About Australian Lions Foundation
The Australian Lions Foundation has been providing grants for disaster relief, compassionate support and community initiatives since the 1980’s. Every year the Foundation distributes more than $1 million for projects through local Lions Clubs.
The Foundation Directors are all Lion volunteers who do not receive any income for their efforts.
A special dog to assist Australians with Diabetes
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe countdown is on for World Diabetes Day on Monday the 14th of November and the life of 30-year-old diabetic Eliza has been changed thanks to her new special four-legged companion.
18 month old, Labradoodle ‘Sal’, is the first Diabetic Alert Dog to be trained and placed in the new Australian Lions Medical Alert Dog program.
Sal has undertaken over 12 months of training and was delivered to her new home last week.
Since the 1980s Lions has provided over 650 Assistance Dogs to deaf or hard of hearing Australians. The new Lions Diabetic Alert Dogs are being trained to alert to low blood sugar levels in asymptomatic type 1 diabetics.
“This year marks 40 years since we delivered our first Hearing Assistance Dog. We’re delighted to be celebrating another milestone with the placement of our first Australian Lions Diabetic Alert Dog,” says Australian Lions Hearing Dogs CEO David Horne.
“Over 120,000 Australians currently suffer from type 1 diabetes, and each year 580 Australians die from the disease, many under the age of 18. Diabetic Alert Dogs have the potential to save the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, and drastically improve their quality of life,” adds David Horne.
Lions Diabetic Alert Dogs are trained to indicate by touching one paw to their owner’s leg when they are experiencing a Hypoglycaemic event (low blood sugar).
Additionally, these intelligent dogs are trained to perform helpful tasks such as retrieving a Hypokit to help treat a low or high blood glucose event, seeking assistance from another member in the household on command, and pressing an alert button to call emergency services if their owner falls unconscious when they are home alone.
“Technology has come a long way in the management of type 1 diabetes, but it doesn’t often give you the peace of mind you need. Having Sal as my Diabetic Alert Dog removes the anxiety and fear of the dangers of hypoglycaemia (or low blood sugars) and will help me sleep easier at night,” says Eliza.
Lions’ first Diabetic Alert Dog, Sal. Image Credit: ABC News.
“It’s been an amazing week, both Sal and I getting to know each other and working together. Sal is already alerting to a low blood sugar event, and able to bring me treatment (glucose source) on command which is really exciting,” she adds.
Each year Australian Lions Hearing Dogs train and provide anywhere from 25-30 Assistance Dogs around the country. It’s the only Australian organisation accredited by Assistance Dogs International to carry out such work, each dog free of charge.
The organisation is expanding to ensure it can provide much needed assistance to more Australians.
“We’re very excited to be redeveloping our National Training Centre in Adelaide and will soon have capacity to train up to 120 Assistance Dogs per year,” says CEO David Horne.
Each Assistance Dog costs upward of $37,000 to train and provide to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, or living with type 1 diabetes, and with support of Lions Clubs and donations from members of the public, the dogs are gifted to recipients free of charge.
The placement of the first Lions Diabetic Alert Dog also coincides with Lions Australia’s Lap the Map campaign where volunteers across the country are putting on their walking shoes with an aim of walking a combined distance that will exceed Australia’s circumference (25,760 kms) by World Diabetes Day on the 14th of November.
For more information on the Australian Lions Medical Alert Dog Program, click here.
Lions Club of Quilters Victoria stitches the world together
/in OUR STORIES /by Emily WilliamsBY EMILY WILLIAMS
The Lions Club of Quilters Victoria in District V1-4 have undertaken their most ambitious project yet, the International Quilt Challenge.
As part of their principle project, the Australian Quilt & Textile Collection (AQTC), the Club is requesting quilters of all skill levels from across the world to get involved.
The ‘Our World – Coming Together’ International Quilt challenge is a celebration of the global community, with 40cm x 40cm entries to be based on aspects of its creator’s home country.
An entry by Brenda Gael Smith, representing a Norfolk Pine. Image: Supplied
The final product, which the Club expects to feature several-hundred entries, will be on exhibition at the Lions Clubs International Convention held in Melbourne in 2024.
The quilts will also be exhibited at Pour l’Amour du Fil in Nantes, France, in April 2025.
Australian quilt artist, Gloria Loughman, recognised across the world for her landscape quilts, has taken on the role of Ambassador for the International Quilt Challenge.
“There has never been a better time to come together, as one, through quilting,” she said.
Ambassador, Gloria Loughman
Image: Gloria Loughman
After exhibition, the quilts will be permanently acquired by the Lions Club of Quilters Victoria’s AQTC which aims to preserve the diversity of quilts and their stories.
Final quilt entries are due by November 2023.
You can learn more about the International Quilt Challenge, including how to get involved, here.