Focal Point on Vison Australia Radio

On FOCAL POINT: Dr James Daley, Medical Director Pathology Services from the Redcross Blood Bank, had news on new eye drops developed from donated blood,  AlloSED, with incredible results. Bradley Brider, Australian Blind cricketer, is off to New Zealand with the South Australian team and friends to play and help the game thrive, Erin Mortimer performed on the ABC's show "The Piano".  Erin spoke about the story behind "Lullaby for the Old Man" about Erin's dad, Canterbury Bulldogs  and State of Origen Champion Steve Mortimer, and the very public and personal challenges the family is experiencing living with Steve being diagnosed with dementia, and the research going on with head injuries, Phil Vandeepeer, co-founder and co-presenter for Focal Point, shared Phil's experience of telephone assisted voting at last weekend's state election, and Phil reflected on the election results, AlloSED Information: https://www.lifeblood.com.au/news-and-stories/media-centre/media-releases/australian-blood-donors-deliver-new-hope-those-battling-debilitating  Sports Brain Bank: https://www.brainbank.org.au/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Wednesday 18th March 2026 Peter Greco presented his first lot of Live Radio since the COVID Pandemic.   Peters Guests are:  Stephen Farrawell from Special Olympics South Australia Will Crowe from Stretchy-Tech Mac Bollalla from SA Electoral CommissionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Tony Clark, Mayor of the Hepburn Shire Council, spoke about the challenges; lessons learnt and  achievements to attain this Role as well as a number of portfolio positions Tony holds. Rachel, from marketing at Beyond Blindness, paid tribute to 4 volunteers recently recognised for over 89 years combiner valued service - other volunteer roles available. Mona Hemsley, Head of Audiology at Audika, shared research for World Hearing Day that revealed concerning findings showing too many people are neglecting having a hearing test, tell-tale signs to listen - look out for in family and  friends, John Duncan, Chief Operating Officer for Brake Driver Awareness, spoke about  Australia's first national school-based e-mobility program addressing rising e-scooter accidents, and the positive impact their training may have on pedestrian safety, Resources: Beyond Blindness: http://www.beyondblindness.org.a Audikia: http://www.audika.com.au Brake Driver Awareness: https://www.brake.org.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar,Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India, gave us an insight into how popular the game is in India for athletes and how well it is supported and the opportunities the game enables, a blind cricket version of IPL? Rebecca Young, CEO for Access 2 Arts, with information about  Next Level Creative Mentorships (A $3,000 project funding); "The Chronicles" Audio Described Show  - Part of the 2026 Adelaide Festival; The Mill Disability Access Studio - a 6-month studio opportunity in 2026, and more.  Professor Pete Williams, from the Centre for Eye Research, studying ways to support the cells affected by glaucoma and treatments that support them to say alive - treatments that go beyond lowering eye pressure with drops or stents.  Maureen O'Reilly, from the Vision Australia Library (What do you think of our new intro music?)  with news about i-Access Library catalogue update; a  chance to meet librarians with a strong focus on new release titles - you may choose to get involved; and  free In Conversations with 3 authors from the Melbourne Writers Festival - these will be live streamed,  Resournces: Blind Cricket India: https://blindcricket.in/ Access 2 Arts: http://www.access2arts.org.au The Mill: Email: visualarts@themilladelaide.com or go to: https://www.themilladelaide.com Centre for Eye Research: http://www.cera.org.au Vision Australia Library: www.visionaustraliaorg/librarySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  On FOCAL POINT: Scott Dixon Smith took part in Sydney's Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. Scot was accompanied by his guide dog Pretzel, from Guide Dogs NSW & ACT - Guide with Pride. Eliza Lovell, Community Arts Project Officer from the City of Campbelltown invited all to a free audio-described Fringe Festival Event, Connection a visual art exhibition that looks at how we relate to each other, to the places we live, and to ourselves. Sunday 8th March 2pm, at the Brookside Cellars Community Arts Centre, 17 Moore St, Tranmere SA.  More information email: elovell@campbelltown.sa.gov.au Kathryn O'Toole, a client of Seeing Eye Dogs and Katie Farrell, SED Mobility Instructor, encouraged all to take part in the Trek for Vision Great Ocean walk, in May Mia Gardiner, from Crime Stoppers Victoria, spoke about financial abuse; signs to look out for; and ways to keep you and your loved ones safer. Resources: Trek for Vision: https://hs.inspiredadventures.com.au/visionaustralia-greatoceanwalk-2026-reg  Crimestoppers: https://crimestoppers.com.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Nicola Ettridge is a highly respected and accomplished advocate. Nicola talked about losing her hearing at 21 and then becoming the advocate; support; role model and leader. Nicole also reflected on International Women's Day, and work finding employment opportunities for people of all abilities, especially in non metropolitan Australia. Dr Frances Gentle, chatted about the joint ICEVI and WBU global braille literacy campaign launched on World Braille Day 4th January 2026. Carlie Towns is days away from leaving for Base Camp Everest. Carlie is also fundraising for the Look for Life Foundation. Phil Vandepeer, co-founder and co-presenter for Focal Point, encouraging people who are blind or have low vision to use telephone voting at the 21st March SA State Election. Phil also offered his thoughts about the election campaign and more.  Resources: Inclusive Employment Australia: https://www.dss.gov.au/inclusive-employment-australia  ICEVI-WBU Global Braille Literacy Campaign: https://icevi.org/icevi-wbu-global-braille-literacy-campaign/  Carlie Townes: https://www.instagram.com/true_vision_towns/  South Australian State Elections 2026: https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 On FOCAL POINT: Dr Kari Seeley is a researcher from Curtin University who  invited all Audio Description users & creators in Australia to share their experiences and thoughts about AD -  in March, in person and also online if you choose. (Details under Resources in the Podcast Notes) Rachel from Marketing, at Beyond Blindness, had news on a Wills and Estates information session; the travel club; news from their newsletter - including a story about Jobie (winner of the Trevor Frost Scholarship) and more. David Woodbridge, Blindness Product Specialist from Humanware, has been test-driving the Braille Note Evolve - a soon to be released 32 braille cell; fully functioning Windows laptop, based computer. Other versions coming out soon.  Kelly Schultz, Chief Curiosity Officer at Knowable Me, sharing research that 70& of the ASX top 200 listed companies, and how they make no public reference to disability, raising questions about productivity, workforce participation and organisational risk.  Resources: Audio Descritpio Sessions in Adelaide. In-person on Saturday 14th March, 2-3:30pm, in StepneyOnline on Tuesday 17th March, 6-8:30pmIn-person on Wednesday 18th March, 10-11:30am, in StepneyContact: AudioDescription@curtin.edu Beyond Blindness: http://www.beyondblindness.org.au Braille Note Evolve Information: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Fe4NoiICWUy1IPoiD9brFNqOyd2kKmBLnucxKK0Xv6lUM1RBWFhIRkc5NTJGR0JETVUyV042SEpNUS4u&route=shorturl  Knowable Me Insights: https://www.knowable.me/insights See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 On FOCAL POINT: Bill Stavreski, Head of Research at the Leukaemia Foundation, released research for World Cancer Day. This Research showing the grim news that First Nations Australians are dying at far higher rates from blood cancer, and challenged all to take part in the world's greatest Shave. Skye Bee, Operations Manager for Access 2 Arts, invited all to Celebrate the Opening of Fringe 2026 with an Intimate Aboriginal Cultural Tour this Sunday. Skye also shared news of grant writing workshops; audio describing courses; Unmothered (taking place at Murray Bridge and Goodwood), and so much more Tony Doyle, winner of the 2025 Mary Walker Fringe Award, strongly encouraged all to get along to "Turn a Blind Eye", Tony's new Fringe Show, Saturday 7th March 7th - cabaret-style setting, licensed bar open from 5:30 pm, show goes ntil 7:10pm at the Nexus Arts Venue, Lion Arts Courtyard, fully accessible and captioned. Book on the access line 8100 2089 Mac Bollella, from the Electoral Commission of South Australia, had key dates and phone numbers for telephone voting and other inclusive and accessible initiatives for the state election 21st March.  World's Greatest Shave: https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/ Leukaemia Foundation: http://www.leukaemia.org.au Access 2 Arts: http://www.access2arts.org.au SA Electoral Commisson: https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/telephoneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: David Rice OAM, recognised in this year's Australia Day Honours for his  roles as  voluntary Treasurer for ICEVI Pacific, SPEVI; and Round Table On Information Access For People With Print Disabilities. Mia Gardiner, from Crime Stoppers Victoria, shared information to help children be safe  -especially as they return to school. Jeremy Moses, comedian, invited all to his season during the Adelaide Fringe of "Jeremy Moses is Hard to Work With" 5th, 6th March and a matinee on holiday Monday 9th March, at Plant 4 Bowden.  David Tredinnick is finishing his time as Co-ordinator for audio production at Vision Australia. David reflected on his time and how technology has changed how clients can receive their material in their preferred format.  SPEVI - South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment: https://www.spevi.net/ Round Table On Information Access for People with Print Disabilities Inc.: https://printdisability.org/ ICEVI: https://icevi.org/ Crime Stopeeers Australia: https://crimestoppers.com.au/  Jeremy Moses is Hard to Work With: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/jeremy-moses-is-hard-to-work-with-af2026 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Abey Finklea is the  Captain of the United States Women's Blind Cricket Team. The Team played in the first ever Women's World Cup - from no players knowing about the game to World Cup appearances in less than 5 months! Dylan Haar, Artistic Director for On The Fly Impro Theatre, with an invitation to "The Bat"  This format is unique because it is both completely improvised, and performed indarkness - a purely audio experience. They also have a season of their improvised show,"Maestro" and a come n try event/workshops Peter McDougall, CEO for Australian Camps Association, wrapping up a very successful, inclusive event in Victoria last week for people with disabilities, and an opportunity for camps in the future. Phil Vandepeer, co-founder and co-presenter for Focal Point, reflected on the Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight and the Australian of the year awards.  Blind Cricket USA: https://samarthanamusa.org/cricket-for-the-blind-in-usa/ Book Tickets to "The Bat": https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1519359  Australian Camps Association: http://www.peopleoutdoors.org.au www.auscamps.asn.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

   On Focal Point: Venkatesh Chari, President and CEO Orbit Research and co-Founder for Access Mind, updated us on the progress of the Optima - a modular Windows 11 computer with 40 cell braille display and so many other features.  Reuben Fairbank, Australian Blind Cricketer, spoke about South Australia's making the final at the National Cricket Inclusion Championships for Athletes who are Blind or have Low Vision. Reuben scored centuries in the semi and grand final. Jason Stubbs, coach of the NSW blind Cricket, chatted about the team taking out their 7th national championships in succession,  Maureen O'Reilly, from the Vision Australia Library, shared up coming events including hearing from authors; narrators; writing workshops; and VCE students can access English Literature books from the library, as well as the 360 print pages you can have put into your preferred format.  Resources: Access Mind LLC: https://www.accessmind.io/  Orbit Research: https://www.orbitresearch.com/  Blind Cricket Australia: http://www.blindcricket.com Vision Australia Library: https://www.visionaustralia.org/services/library See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Alan Taylor, a member of the choir performing for Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight, shared Alan's experiences being part of the time honoured event for over 30 years, and time  in music so far.  Rachel from marketing at Beyond Blindness with events and activities coming up in January - the office closing and reopening times for the holiday season.  Mac Bollella, from the Electoral Commission of South Australia, had news on what's available for telephone assisted voting at the 2026 state election. Phil Vandepeer, co-founder and co-presenter for Focal Point, shared Phil's highlights and low-lights for 2025. Phil also polished his crystal ball, made a prediction or two for 2026, Resources:  Beyond Blindness: http://www.beyondblindness.org.au SA Electoral Commission: https://www.ecsa.sa.gov.au/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  On FOCAL POINT: Dr. Daniel Fielding, CEO and Co-Founder for Audeara - helping to hear better with hearing tests; head phones and other products and initiatives. Audeara is an Australian company that is recognised internationally, Rebecca Young, CEO for Access 2 Arts, with some audio described events at the Art Gallery, workshops for digital design, using A.I. to promote artists and their work. Bec also shares some of her highlights for this year. Steven Johnson has developed the "Black Lens app on IOS, enabling people who are blind or have low vision independently take photos, including selfies.  Jack Crispin, Tennis Development Lead - Schools, invited all to the All Abilities Activation at Adelaide International - an inclusive tennis experience in January. Jack also previewed an event in Adelaide this weekend for athletes who are blind or have low vision.    Resources:  Audeara: http://www.audeara.com Access 2 Arts: http://www.access2arts.org.au Black Lens App: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/black-lens/id6754779190  Jack Crispin Email Address: jack.crispin@tennis.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Lisa Weil,  Guide Dog Mobility and Assistance Dog InstructorGuide Dogs SA/NT, spoke about the first Facility Dog, Bonnie, who has been sworn in to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia in Adelaide. Mia Gardiner, from Crime Stoppers Victoria, had tips to keep your parcels safe; action you can take to minimise your chances of being scammed; and ways you may be able to help yourself, family and neighbourhood. Aaron Chia, CEO for Guide Dogs SA & NT, has decided - after 9 years - to retire as CEO. Aaron chatted about the role and shared highlights and achievements from his time with GDSA/NT. Dr Sandra Thom-Jones is the winner of “Sisters in Crime" 32nd Scarlet StilettoSandra was told that Sandra didn't have the creativity or imagination to write fiction. Resources: Crimestoppers: https://crimestoppers.com.au/ Scarlet Stiletto Award Stories: https://www.clandestinepress.net/collections/anthologies/products/scarlet-stiletto-every-cutSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Brigid Maroun is completing her year 12 Major Design Project, for Design and Technology, focusing on shopping difficulties faced by people with vision impairment. You will find the link to her survey in the podcast notes under "Resources" Keshia Arbour spoke about Perinatal Mental Health Week awareness, and shared some of her experiences living with ADHD; gestational diabetes; and the incredible difference that happened when Keshia found connection through her mental health care team - including the Gidget Foundation.  Keshia is now a Gidget Angel. Emma Hamilton, Marketing Manager, and Brooke Carter, Relationship Manager from the Australian Disability Network, spoke about their "Building Belonging" campaign for International Day for People With Disability. They gave tips; ideas and information for making the world a more inclusive place. Phil Vandepeer, co-founder and co-presenter for Focal Point, spoke about the outstanding audio description of the Christmas Pageant on Vision Australia Radio by Access 2 Arts; the importance of radio for those living in the country; and a brief chat about the changes in leadership roles in the Liberal Party in some state and territories. Resources:  Shopping Accessibility for People with Visual Impairments: https://form.jotform.com/253158330740048  Gidget Foundation: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/ Australian Disability Network: https://australiandisabilitynetwork.org.au/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Alan Davis is the President, and Eva Overton the Assistant Manager for the Denmark Riverside Club. There are a number of activities planned for International Day for People With Disabilities – this includes lawn bowls with the Australian blind bowlers; a photo competition; dragon boats relaxed sessions; a dinner; and more, Rachel, from Marketing at Beyond Blindness, spoke about opportunities for fruit picking; crafts for Christmas; gatherings and other Christmas functions Michelle Lensink, SA Shadow Minister for Human Services, shared some news of her treatment after being diagnosed with cancer; responded to the announcements about Bedfords; and the frustrating experiences with Access Cabs. Nicole Cogan, Senior Property Manager at SDA, spoke about her role and specialist disability accommodation. Nicole also invited all to the Melbourne Disability Expo, this Friday and Saturday. Resources: Denmark Riverside Club: https://denmarkriversideclub.org.au/ (Call 08  9848 1517) Beyond Blindness: http://www.beyondblindness.org.au Michelle Lensink: https://saliberal.org.au/team/michelle-lensink Melbourne Disability Expo: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://melbournedisabilityexpo.com.au/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Amanda Heal, Technologist; author; advocate; and life-coach, sharing her experiences using "Innosearch" a website and app for shopping; booking tickets and more.  Rebecca Young, CEO for Access 2 Arts, wrapping up the audio description on Vision Australia Radio Adelaide of the Christmas Pageant, and an opportunity to express your preferences for audio described events coming up at the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Andrew Worrall, inviting all to the Kyd-x Expo this Friday and Saturday, at the Mile End Netball stadium. There is something for any child with a disability; their family; carers and those working in this area.  Maureen O Reilly, from the Vision Australia Library, with events coming up - a chance to send a braille card to your braille loving friends; an "In Conversation"; Author reading and more.   Resources: Innosearch: https://www.innosearch.ai/ 2025 Adelaide Christmas Pageant Podcast: https://omny.fm/shows/interview-highlights/a-look-back-at-the-2025-adelaide-christmas-pageant  Access 2 Arts: http://www.access2arts.org.au Kyd-x Expo: https://kidsyouthdisabilityexpo.com.au Vision Australia Library: https://www.visionaustralia.org/services/librarySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  On FOCAL POINT: Andrew Flatres, Braille Product Manager for Humanware, has news on the Monarch: multi-line braille display device. Tthe Monarch is a joint venture between Humanware and the American Printing House for the Blind, and has been named as one of Time's inventions of 2025 in the accessibility category. Mia Gardiner, from Crime Stoppers Victoria, spoke about how important it is to speak up about sexism.  Isaac McInness is the inaugural Young Blind Australian of the year, excelling at education; sport; advocacy and more.  Tim Dehn is a narrator with Vision Australia's personal support service. Vision Australia clients can have up to 360 print pages put into their preferred format. Tim also spoke about his career in radio Resources: Humanware: http://www.humanware.com American Printing House: http://www.aph.org  Crimestoppers Australia: https://crimestoppers.com.au/  Vison Australia Print Accessibility Services: https://visionaustralia.org/business-consulting/print-accessibility See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 On FOCAL POINT:  Ryan Hotchooten, Youth Support Officer, at VisAbility, went on a guided tour of Optus Stadium - marking International White Cane Day - exploring its accessibility features and more Dr Annmaree Watharow invited all to the "Filling in the gaps and joining the dots" Conference on the 27th and 28th November at Sydney University. This event is for everyone, 6 flavours of ice cream and pop corn after each day! Neal Robertson spoke about losing his sight, and the different services accessed at Vision Australia - including the woodwork group; technology; quality living group and more. Neal also spoke about therole the right attitude can play to get the most out of life Phil Vandepeer, co-funder and co-presenter for Focal Point, spoke about how fundraising has changed for organisations and the impact on their viability. Phil also spoke about the federal political scene and the audio description of the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant on Vision Australia Radio. There are premium spots at the pageant available to attend on the daycontact Access 2 Arts on 8463 1689 (Web site available in the podcast notes under "Resources") Resources: VisAbiloity: http://www.visability.com.au Filling in the Gaps and Joining the Dots - Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/filling-in-the-gaps-and-joining-the-dots-tickets-1459528391709  Access 2 Arts: http://www.access2arts.org.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On FOCAL POINT: Kelly Vincent, Adelaide Airport's Access and Inclusion Specialist, was delighted that on World Sight Day, her employer received the Access Advocate Award from Guide Dogs SA/NT, Ben Hood, SA Shadow Minister for Transport; Infrastructure; Hospitality and Government Accountability, spoke  about Access Cabs; the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, assistance animals being refused by cabs and ride share and Bedfords. Shannon Jones is the  Education Inclusion Coordinator at St Kilda Football Club, as well as the Captain of their AFL Blind team.  This years St Kilda FC was was the Winner of the Employer of Choice award - part of the 2025 Blind Australian of the year, Amanda Trist, Occupational Therapist with Live Big, shared thoughts about "School Can't" or School refusals: especially how it impacts on children with disabilities and some tips to help cope with it.  Find out more here: http://www.livebig.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.