CEO UPDATE
As Lions Assistance Dogs moves through an exciting period, I want to take a moment to reflect on several important milestones. Last month, we proudly celebrated National Hearing Dog Day on the 19th of April. A day to raise awareness for our longest running program, our Hearing Assistance Dog Program, while also recognising more than 40 years of Lions Assistance Dogs history and service. We also welcomed supporters, puppy carers, recipients and future Assistance Dogs to our annual Pups in the Park event in Mount Barker. The day was a wonderful celebration of community connection and an opportunity for people to learn more about our organisation.
Another major milestone was our Sod Turning Ceremony which took place on the 21st of May alongside the 2026 Lions Multiple District Convention in Adelaide. This event officially marked the beginning of the redevelopment of our National Training Centre in Verdun. As part of this next chapter, our staff and dogs will begin relocating from the National Training Centre from early June before construction commences. While this brings change, it also marks an exciting step forward for the future of Lions Assistance Dogs and the people we support.
We had a great time connecting with Lions from across Australia during the Lions MD Convention, held locally in Adelaide. Lions Clubs have been at the heart of our organisation since the beginning, and we remain incredibly grateful for the ongoing support, advocacy and generosity of Lions communities nationwide.
None of this progress would be possible without our dedicated staff, volunteers, puppy carers, donors, Lions Clubs and supporters. Thank you for continuing to walk alongside us as we shape the future of Lions Assistance Dogs together.
Yours in service,
PCC David Horne
Chief Executive Officer
