Office fulfils vision
VISION Australia has opened its first Townsville office, boosting services available in the region to people who are blind or have low vision.
The centre, located in Pimlico’s medical precinct on Fullham Rd, was officially opened last week.
It also has Australia’s first outdoor paediatric orientation and mobility facility.
Vision Australia regional manager Laree Verra said the organisation offered support, services and equipment to help people live independently, travel safely in the local community and further afield, and stay connected with their friends and family through technology.
“We have been supporting people in Townsville and the surrounding regional communities for a number of years through outreach services,” she said.
“Due to increasing demand we have established a permanent presence.
“Our team is very excited about assisting people of all ages to meet the goals they set for themselves throughout life and access funding through the National Disability Insurance Scheme and My Aged Care to meet their specific needs.
“Importantly, we connect people with others who are blind or have low vision.
“Many people tell us that being able to share their experiences and learn from others is invaluable.”
Townsville mum Hailey Brown’s two daughters, aged five and nine months, both have albinism and she said Vision Australia had been critical in supporting the family.
“A range of therapists have worked with Arliyah on her specific needs and we have formed lifelong relationships with the team,” she said.
“Mackenzie, our third child, also has albinism and we were faced with the same fears we had for Arliyah.
“But knowing how Vision Australia has played such a big part in Arliyah’s life and helped her reach her full potential, we felt relieved that Mackenzie would receive the same support.
“The assistance we have received from Vision Australia has been critical in getting Arliyah to where she is today.”
For more information call Vision Australia on 4434 5800.