Access to support services for Eurobodalla residents living with blindness or low vision has been made easier after Vision Australia expanded its reach in the region.
The not-for-profit organisation has recently partnered with Batemans Bay’s Tony Ireland EyeQ Optometrists, who will now support residents through low vision assessments and service referrals.
Beth Sywulsky, Vision Australia Regional Manager South Coast, ACT and Central West, said the partnership means the region’s blind and low vision community will have more access than ever before to support services.
“Rather than having to wait for a mobile Vision Australia orthoptist to visit the area, the partnership means that our clients can book in for a low vision assessment when it is convenient for them,” Ms Sywulsky said.
“If the assessment reveals something that needs further attention, the client will be referred back to Vision Australia for further support. Depending on the situation the client will either visit our Canberra office or a member of our staff will visit them.” 
Vision Australia is the leading national provider of blindness and low vision services, supporting clients to gain an education, enjoy a meaningful career, be involved in their communities and live independently.
Prior to the partnership, a Vision Australia orthoptist would visit the region every four to six weeks. While that was effective, Ms Sywulsky said it did have some drawbacks.
“With a system like that you only have a limited number of spots for appointments and it could be difficult for clients to arrange things that far into the future.
“We’ve used a similar partnership arrangement with an optometrist in Canberra for some time now and it’s proved to be very effective. We’re confident it will have the same impact in Batemans Bay and we’re also looking at the possibility of expanding it into areas such as Merimbula and Bega.”
Optometrist Tony Ireland said he is looking forward to ensuring the region’s blind and low vision community have access to the support they need.
“When I heard that people were having to wait for Vision Australia staff to visit Batemans Bay or have to travel to Canberra themselves I thought that was a situation where could help and I’m looking forward to doing that,” Mr Ireland said.
“Selfishly, I also think it’s something that will help me develop my skills. Most optometrists only deal with people who living with low vision sporadically, through the partnership I’ll likely being doing that more often now and that will help me develop professionally,” he said.