Lap the Map

Originally created by Lions Australia to raise awareness for diabetes, Lap the Map has entered an exciting new chapter. In 2024, Lions Assistance Dogs proudly took on the project to raise awareness—and much-needed funds—for our Diabetic Alert Dogs.

These professionally trained dogs are true lifesavers. They alert to dangerous highs and lows in blood glucose levels and perform at least three life-saving tasks to help their recipients manage type 1 diabetes.

We currently receive no government funding for our Medical Assistance Dog Program and rely entirely on the generosity of Lions Clubs and the Australian public to provide these life-saving dogs completely free of charge to those who need them.

In our first year, we raised just under $40,000—the cost of delivering one fully trained Assistance Dog! We also almost collectively lapped one entire map of Australia, covering a massive 25,760 kilometres.

This year, we aim to double that goal—raising even more funds and Lapping Australia twice! Can you help us get there?

Whether you’re an individual, part of a Lions Club, a workplace, a school—or even walking with your dog—anyone can get involved. Walk, run, swim, ride—track your kilometres and raise funds in your local community to help us Lap the Map together.

https://lionsassistancedogs.com.au/lap-the-map/

https://fundraise.lionshearingdogs.com.au/event/lap-the-map/home

Crock Place Landcare

A great sucker removal activity last week-end - taking out some of the woody weeds that have established themselves very solidly in the drains that come from the streets to the creek. Attached are pictures of hardy souls who put great effort into the woody weed removal. Of course we can only use hand tools and it would be better if the government looked after the offending suckers with the tools they have available, but the suckers are down now, and, having had poison applied, the growing will stop, hopefully!

 

    As always, a wonderful sight - the Kookaburra in a tree - it had been on the ground hunting for something along a 'desire path'.  The Tawnies are back and have taken up occupancy in a tree not far from their previous residence. What will their nest look like this year!

 

    I have applied for three grants - for First Aid and CPR training, for an Open Day so we can recruit more volunteers, and for Weed Identification training. Fingers crossed.

    There is also an opportunity for a grant of up to $2500 from the Floriade Team - to promote our Floriade display - closing 27 July. Last year we received $1400 and combined the activity with the unveiling of the entry sign. Is there interest in seeking a Floriade grant - please let me know - perhaps we could seek funding for more permanent/professional signage for our Lions Floriade garden for instance?

 

    I'm pleased to say that the annuals and the grasses that have been planted recently appear to be settling in well. This is for most plants the time when the soil is 'asleep' so while the annuals should appreciate the cold, the grasses may wait for warmer times before they show their stuff.

 

    I won't see you on Saturday, but Peter will probably lead you towards more sucker removal - a satisfying task in ridding the place of weeds that have been growing over a long period. Don't forget to take before and after picures!