Diabetes is one of the Lions' key global focus areas and the organization is encouraging those in their community to stay active particularly during COVID-19 outbreaks.

Lions volunteers across the country are putting their walking shoes on for its annual lap the map event where the organisation aims to have a combined distance travelled that will exceed Australia's circumference (25,760 kms) by World Diabetes Day on November 14.

Last year, Lions Australia not only lapped the map once, but reported a combined distance of 199,875 kms, almost 7.75 times the distance of Australia's circumference.

National diabetes co-ordinator Pat Mills said the organisation was aiming to beat last year's incredible result.

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"The 'Lions Lap the Map' family friendly walks and campaigns in the community encourage people to get outside and have a walk to promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the diabetes epidemic in Australia," he said.

"Across Australia 1.3 million people have been diagnosed with Diabetes and 283 people are diagnosed every day.

"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 due to 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."

With over 1.4 million members, Lions is the largest service organisation in the world.

Since the first club was formed in Australia 74 years ago, Lions has grown dramatically in size and impact with over 1200 Lions clubs now in Australia giving back to the community.

For more information, please visit https://lionsclubs.org.au.

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MEANWHILE, the Lions Club of Leeton is also looking forward to a return to "normal" with the continuing easing of restrictions throughout the state.

The club, like many others, has been impacted upon by lockdowns and restrictions that are in place which limit their ability to fundraise and assist the community.

However, with more rules set to be relaxed in the coming weeks, the club is looking forward to getting back together and working on behalf of the community.

If you would like more information on becoming a Lions member in Leeton, contact Mr Strempel.

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