Talking Newspapers are a wonderful service provided by Vision Australia allowing people who would not otherwise be able to do so, keep abreast of events reported in local newspapers across Australia.
Each week dedicated teams of volunteers read local newspapers onto tape. Volunteers then duplicate the tape forward it onto clients.
Larry Langman is a volunteer for Vision Australia in Coffs Harbour helping produce the Talking Coffs Harbour Advocate. Larry, a retired IT Executive has volunteered for 5 Years. He undertakes roles as both a narrator - reading the newspaper onto tape - and as a producer - copying that tape and distributing to Vision Australia clients.
Radio, television and internet services provide access to world, national and state news; however local stories are often only reported in local newspapers. By producing a version of the local papers in audio format, it allows people who are blind or have low vision to keep abreast of their local communities' information. Items such as the results from the local Blind Bowlers Group and the contents of Births, Deaths and Marriages columns is some of the most sought after.
Each week in Coffs Harbour, as in many centres across Australia, Vision Australia Volunteers like Larry distribute the talking newspaper to clients who register for the free service.
Like many people who volunteer, Larry volunteers his time to several organisations including Landcare and CROPO (Coffs Regional Organic Producers Organisation).
Larry says that he Volunteers "To feel part of the community" while "Giving back to the Community".
Asked about what gives him the greatest satisfaction about undertaking his role for Vision Australia, Larry says, "The enjoyment that you get in doing a Job well."
If you are interested in receiving the Talking Newspaper Service, or in volunteering for Vision Australia, please call 1300 847466.
