Since 1965, Lions Traditional Christmas Cakes have become a beloved festive staple for many Australians. However, did you know they symbolise much more than holiday cheer?
Lions Christmas cakes and puddings are a vital source of funding for Lions community projects locally, nationally and internationally. Each year, Lions Clubs across Australia sell nearly 500,000 cakes, generating over $5 million.
Locally, Lions Club of Brisbane Inner North member Frances Knott said they had been able to donate to organisations like Coffee Brigade, who provide meals for the homeless and Share the Dignity, who supply essential items to women in need.
“More recently, we supported Northwest Community Group who provide tents, bedding, clothing and pantry items for the homeless, Compassion for Community Nundah who make nearly 800 meals a week for those in need and Bright Bags who provide bags of clothing, activities and hygiene items to children experiencing homelessness, who have left a DV situation, in foster care, or are ill,” Fran said.
Empowering Youth and Supporting Broader Causes
The club also supports local schools by hosting the annual Lions Youth of the Year competition, designed to help young people develop confidence in public speaking and interview skills.
One of the recent winners, Eliza, said it was a great opportunity to experience a proper interview for the first time.
“Having to respond to impromptu questions gave me an opportunity to practise thinking on my feet and communicating a clear response,” Eliza said.
On a broader scale, funds raised from Lions Christmas cakes and puddings contribute to projects such as the Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club magic show for children with disabilities, the Lions Club International Foundation earthquake appeal, the Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation and other initiatives aimed at bushfire relief and childhood cancer research.
Fran said the best part about selling the cakes was connecting with the community.
“We meet people from all walks of life,” she said. “It’s lovely to hear their family story about why a Lions cake is so important, perhaps a tradition started by a family member.”
Lions cakes, produced by Traditional Foods in Victoria, contain 50% fruit and are available in several sizes. Traditional Christmas Cakes come in 1.5kg ($20) and 1kg ($16), while puddings are available in 900 grams ($16) or 400 grams ($10).
Lions Club of Brisbane Inner North are currently selling cakes at Geebung RSL and from mid-month will have stalls at Aspley Hypermarket, Westfield Chermside, Aspley Lions Park and Grinstead Park in Alderley.
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
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- Local Initiative Empowers Veterans with Affordable Technology
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- A Seriously Funny Night with Stephen K Amos
- A Win For Native Wildlife
- Local Retirement Village Wins Top Catering Award
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- Jingle Bells Rock at Aspley Christmas Carols
