The Lions Clubs of the Kiama–Shoalhaven region is celebrating a big win for local kids’ eye health, following the successful accreditation of new Lions Eye Health Program (LEHP) screeners and the completion of the first children’s vision screening by Minnamurra Lions.

The screening was delivered with strong support from Kiama Lions, Gerringong Lions Club, Shoalhaven Heads Lions Club, Lions Club of Tahmoor Inc, and Woonona and Canberra Lions Clubs, demonstrating the depth of collaboration across the region.

The activity was proudly conducted in partnership with Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club, strengthening ties between local service organisations.

Training for the new screeners was led by District N2 LEHP Instructor Jenny Barclay, whose expertise has been central to building capability across the zone.

As a result of her program, the Kiama–Shoalhaven region now has more than 24 accredited screeners, significantly expanding local capacity to deliver early‑intervention vision checks for children.

The accreditation also welcomes two new LEHP‑active clubs - Gerringong Lions and Shoalhaven Heads Lions - further strengthening the region’s long‑term commitment to improving children’s eye health.

Planning is already underway to develop at least six trained facilitators, with the potential for one or two new instructors in the near future.

This momentum continues, with Kiama Lions set to conduct the third Lions Eye Health Program – Australia screening on 1 March at the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, delivered in partnership with the Kiama Kingfishers.

The event will provide another important opportunity for local families to access free, early‑detection vision screening for their children.

A Lions spokesperson said the achievement reflects “the best of Lions collaboration - clubs working together, sharing skills, and building a service that will benefit children and families for years to come.”

For the Kiama–Shoalhaven region, these milestones mark the beginning of a stronger, more coordinated approach to children’s eye health, one built on teamwork, training, and a shared commitment to community wellbeing.