Opinion pieces

Do you, or someone you know, have an artistic streak? Why not share it with the community and help to raise funds for Vision Australia? People who are blind or have low vision who love to paint, draw or sculpt are invited to contribute artworks for our 2016 fundraising large print calendar and diary.

A new computer system, that allows voters who are blind or have low vision to vote independently and in secret, is being used as part of an accessible voting trial by the Electoral Commission Queensland for the first time at the 2015 Queensland state election.

Volunteers are the lifeblood at 5RPH Adelaide, a radio reading and information service for the print-handicapped delivered through the 1197AM frequency, and thanks to four dedicated retirees, South Australians get to hear about life on the land through a weekly reading of the Stock Journal.

In this program, a lady who is blind explains the joy of ballet as we hear about the welcoming approach of the Elancé Adult Ballet School in Melbourne. Also, we find out about the experience of Australia’s blind cricketers at the recent 40 overs per side World Cup event in South Africa.

Distinguished blind Australian, Emeritus Professor Ron McCallum AM, has recently completed six years of service with the United Nations Committee monitoring the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In the program for the week of January 5, Stephen Jolley marks this significant milestone through an extended chat with him.

Vision Australia was saddened to learn of the passing of Gordon Merry - one of the founders of VA Radio

Maryanne Diamond, General Manager Advocacy and Engagement, Vision Australia presented ‘An Information Revolution for the Blind’ at TEDxPlaceDesNations in Geneva, Switzerland last month.

Queensland state election has been called for the 31 January. For the first time voters who are blind or have low vision can vote electronically in the election using e-Assist.

Seeing Eye Dogs play a vital role in helping those who are blind stay mobile and active in the community, but a faithful Labrador can help people in so many ways – as the children of Diamond Valley Special Developmental School have recently discovered.

In the program for the week of December 29, we take the time to enjoy again the fun and fellowship of a program first broadcast in July last year. Do tune in to the joy of braille and music with the 2014 National Braille Music Camp.