About Us

Being a Lion…Changing the World

We serve our community at the local level, but never forget that we are part of an incredible network of dedicated volunteers who are united in our mission of service. Together, we are changing peoples lives for the better, every day, all around the world. We meet the needs of our local communities and the world.

Such is the story of Lion Sari-Elle and the ALF Compassionate grant. What Sari-Elle achieved is just outstanding, a lion at heart a lion for life. The ALF Compassionate grants assists many of our clubs to support people with special needs, public relief and community welfare and will continue to need our support. Sari-Elle with lion clubs support raised $125,600 for our ALF Compassionate grant by running a 423.195K marathon at Mt Everest and came home safe and sound … just amazing. 

Please read Sari-Elles’ story:

As many of you know I recently completed the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon in Nepal as a fundraiser for Lions. I wanted to say a very big thank you to all Lions and Leos who have supported this project over the past 12 months.

When I signed up for the world’s highest marathon, deep down, I wasn’t sure if I could do it.

I’d never done anything like this before-I had just started running and had never even attempted a trail run let alone at high altitude. But I wanted to do something meaningful to raise awareness and funds for this incredible organisation.

So, I decided to set myself a challenge, not only to trek 5300 metres above sea level to Everest Base Camp but then to attempt to run a full marathon (42.195 kms) in the Himalayas. In the lead up to this epic challenge, I was on a mission to raise $120,000 for Australian Lions Foundation and raise awareness of  Lions in the Community

I’ve trained hard over the last 12 months, running 70-100 kms a week.  When  I haven’t been at work or volunteering with Lions, I’ve been out pounding the pavements or training on trails. I’ve seized every opportunity to get out in the community speaking to Lions Clubs as well as other community organisations and with the media. I’ve also competed in many races and running events to train and help raise awareness of  the life changing work of Australian Lions Foundation’s Compassionate grants.

Raising $120,000 is a massive team effort and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every Lions Club and member who helped make this happen whether it was through making donations or helping to spread the word. As I was trekking to Base Camp and started feeling the effects of altitude-shortness of breath, cough, headache and nausea – I often thought about how many Lions who had supported the ALF Fundraiser and also helped cover my personal costs.

I was deeply moved when PDG Elvio Munzone sent a letter to the Lions network asking for donations to support my Everest Marathon journey. Your willingness to contribute touched my heart in ways words cannot fully express. I made it to 5300 meters above sea level to Everest Base Camp and as I was navigating the high sherpa trails during the World’s Highest Marathon I felt the incredible support of the Lions network with every step.

I am thrilled to share that we not only met but exceeded the $120,000 fundraising goal, raising over $126,500 for the life-changing work of the Australian Lions Foundation’s Compassionate Grants. These grants are provided to individuals and families in urgent situations. They truly do create miracles every day and change and save lives. Together we can be so proud of the difference this fundraising will make to people in need.

So, how did I end up going in the marathon? I not only completed the Everest Marathon for Lions but also placed 3rd foreign female and 7th overall. I was so proud to wave the Lions flag at the finish line.

Thank you so much again for all of your support on the journey.

I am so incredibly  proud to be a Lion.

Warm regards

Sari-Elle Kraemer

Coogee Lions Club President