Expo presents new options to people with low vision in Warwick
Guide Dogs Queensland (GDQ) will promote the latest technology and training available to local people with little or no vision at its first ever Mobility Expo in Warwick on Wednesday, 26 October.
The expo will give locals the chance to find out what help is available and the surprising range of services provided by the Association best known for its Guide Dogs.
GDQ already works with around 30 people who use a Guide Dog or White Cane in the greater Warwick region and organisers are hopeful the expo will prompt more locals to take advantage of the free services on offer.
Retired veterinarian Syd Miller is a White Cane user who only recently discovered how the Association could help maintain his independence despite losing his vision to Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
“I thought Guide Dogs Queensland trained dogs and that was it!” Mr Miller said.
Diagnosed with AMD more than two years ago, Mr Miller is blind with less than 20 per cent vision in one eye and sought help from GDQ after having two bad falls down stairs.
“I can’t read or drive and while I can make out most things, it’s very blurry, and steps are a major worry,” he said.
Mr Miller has been using the Cane now for six months ago and credits the aid for his ability to explore new places with confidence.
“I thought you just waved a cane in front of you to get people out of the road, but there’s much more to it and the training has been fantastic,” he said.
GDQ Rehabilitation Services Manager Bashir Ebrahim OAM said he had already received numerous calls from people interested in coming along to the expo and was expecting a strong response on the day.
“Our instructors visit the region on a monthly basis to provide support and training but we expect there are many people who are not aware GDQ delivers services directly in Warwick,” Mr Ebrahim said.
“We are known for our Guide Dogs but also offer a counselling service, White Cane training and help with orientation – all of which are stepping stones to a Guide Dog. There’s also strong interest in our electronic travel aids.”
The expo runs from 10am to 1pm is an opportunity for people with low vision, their family and friends to talk to qualified instructors and learn about the options. Visitors can find out how to apply for a Guide Dog, White Cane training and the technology and aids that can make life easier at work and at home.
GDQ receives less than seven per cent in Government funding for some specific rehabilitation services but none for Guide Dogs or the services provided in regional centres such as Warwick.
Media Opportunity:
What: Guide Dogs Queensland Mobility Expo
Who: White Cane User Syd Miller and GDQ Rehabilitation Services Manager Bashir Ebrahim OAM plus expo guests.
When: Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 10am – 1pm
Where: Community Health Centre – Specialist Clinic; cnr Locke and Wallace streets, Warwick
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