Wednesday 20th November
Stay informed and up to date with the latest changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Our dedicated webpage is your go-to hub for all things NDIS, providing easy access to the most recent updates and essential information. Whether you’re looking for the latest news or need to refer back to important details, you’ll find everything you need on BCA’s website.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
What’s Coming Up at BCA?
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for November is available on our website, or you can access the calendar via audio by phoning 1800 033 660 and following the prompts.
If you have any questions, or would like more information, please feel free to contact us on events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.
Trivia
Saturday, 23rd November at 8:00pm AEDT.
Are you interested in expanding your general knowledge in an easy going and fun atmosphere? If so, join this week’s trivia presented by Debra Simons for an enjoyable night of team competition.
Please be aware that, to ensure the smooth operation of the game, Trivia will be limited to 25 players. To give everyone an opportunity, the Zoom waiting room will open to admit people who sign in from 7:45pm Sydney time and closes at 8:00pm.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile (via non-iOS)
- Join with one tap mobile using the number below (via iOS):
+61370182005,,87032845474#,,,,*422844# - Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 870 3284 5474
- Passcode: 422844
BCA Inform – AI and Digital Accessibility
Tuesday, 3rd December from 7:30pm to 9:00pm AEDT.
Join us for an insightful session exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital accessibility and how innovation is impacting the lives of people who are blind or vision impaired in areas such as self-service and online banking.
The session will also examine cyber security and app development including the limitations and frustrations that arise when software updates impact accessibility. We’ll discuss the opportunities and challenges posed by technological advancements and what needs to be done to improve access to information and ensure more inclusive digital experiences.
To register for the event please visit the Humanitix website.
If you have any questions or if you require assistance registering, please feel free to contact us at events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.
BCA Annual General Meeting
Thursday, 5th December 2024 at 7:30pm AEDT.
You are invited to the 49th Annual General Meeting of BCA. The meeting will take place via Zoom. The agenda and further information are available on the BCA Website.
To register for the AGM please visit the Humanitix website.
If you have any questions, or if you require additional information, please email companysecretary@bca.org.au.
Peer Connect Groups
The Peer Connect groups meeting in the next week are listed below. You can also find out more about all our peer connect groups, including session times and other details on the BCA Website.
Acquired Sight Loss Group
Monday, 25th November at 7:30pm AEDT.
Hosted by BCA’s National Advocacy Officer, Martin Stewart, this welcoming and friendly group is a forum for members to meet and talk with others with acquired sight loss.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 858 9870 3533
- Passcode: 850765
Seniors Group
Tuesday, 26th November at 2:30pm AEDT.
Whether you’re seeking friendship, support, or simply a listening ear, our seniors group offers a welcoming and inclusive space. Join Brenda and be part of a vibrant community, where we share unique experiences and challenges faced by seniors who are blind or vision impaired.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 828 0608 8132
- Passcode: 836724
Gardening Group
Wednesday, 27th November at 7:30pm AEDT.
Gardening can be therapeutic and bring joy when plants are growing and thriving. Join Silvana and other gardening enthusiasts and share your knowledge, tips, and techniques for a flourishing home garden. All are welcome!
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 885 7005 1120
- Passcode: 526175
Music Group
Wednesday, 27th November at 7:30pm AEDT.
Are you passionate about music? Look no further and join the Music Group! Hosted by Jennifer Parry and open to musicians who are blind or vision impaired, of all skill levels, the group provides a welcoming space to discuss tunes, share your experiences and collaborate on creative pieces. Whether you’re an experienced performer, singer or have just recently picked up an instrument, you’re welcome to join this supportive and inspiring group.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 816 6764 3910
- Passcode: 795049
BCA Updates
Update from the CEO
Dear members,
I would like to congratulate BCA member Karen Knight, who has been appointed as Chief Services Officer at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. Karen brings a wealth of experience in leadership, service delivery and strategic governance – particularly within the disability and community services sectors. Her roles have included leading large teams, such as her tenure as General Manager of Client Services at Vision Australia. She has been a strong advocate for people with disabilities, representing their voice at the board level in organisations like Life Without Barriers. I wish Karen the very best in her new role and look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in the sector.
In more news, four BCA members have been announced as finalists for this year’s National Awards for Disability Leadership. We congratulate Emma Bennison, Katie Butler, Llewellyn Prain and Annette Holden for being recognised for contributions to the disability sector. The National Awards for Disability Leadership, organised by the Disability Leadership Institute, honour and celebrate the contributions and leadership of individuals with disability and disability organisations in Australia. With seven categories, these awards highlight the significant impact people with disability and their advocates have made in driving change and advancing equality for the community. To find out more about the awards and finalists, visit the Disability Leadership Institute website.
As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping you informed, we encourage you to visit our website for the latest updates from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), including new legislative changes and system updates that may impact you. For more information, explore the details available on our NDIS Updates page.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge World Diabetes Day, which took place on Thursday, 14th November. This day serves as an important reminder of the global impact of diabetes and the need for continued awareness, education, and action in the fight against this chronic condition. Let us take this opportunity to support those living with diabetes and work towards better care and resources for everyone affected.
Vale Mary Lovett
It is with deep sadness that we share that Mary Lovett OAM passed away on Tuesday, 29th October 2024.
Mary was legally blind and throughout her adult life worked extensively with the blind and low vision community in the Mudgee area, having worked for the Royal Blind Society of NSW in the 1970s. She was actively involved in the Mudgee Black & White Committee as a committee member, volunteer and ultimately the Patron.
In 2013, Mary received the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia – the award recognising her dedication to fundraising for Vision Australia, co-founding with her husband the Mudgee branch of the Friends of Vision Australia fundraising group. Mary was also the Chairperson of the Central West NSW branch of Blind Citizens Australia (BCA).
In 1997, she founded the Mudgee VIP Group (Vision Impaired Persons support group) and assisted the Mudgee library when they introduced talking books and adaptive technology.
Mary was an enthusiastic advocate for the blind and low vision community, her tireless advocacy and selfless contribution will be sadly missed.
New Horizons
This week, Graeme Innes speaks with long-time host of New Horizons, Vaughn Bennison. Vaughn is set to become the next President of Blind Citizens Australia following its Annual General Meeting in December. Hear about Vaughn’s background and work, and his hopes for the future of Blind Citizens Australia and the New Horizons programme. Thanks to Graeme for bringing us this interview.
Take a listen to the New Horizons podcast or find out how to tune in live.
Do you have any ideas for stories, or feedback about the show? Contact us on new.horizons@bca.org.au.
News From Outside BCA
National
Registrations open for National Disability Research Partnership’s first Evidence to Action event
Thursday, 5th December from 1:00pm to 4:00pm AEDT.
Registrations are now open for the National Disability Research Partnership’s first Evidence to Action event: Exploring the Evidence to Enable the Elimination of Restrictive Practices in Australia.
Join us for an online event in collaboration with Inclusion Australia and People with Disability Australia.
The event will discuss important topics related to the research needed to uphold the rights and safety of people with disability, in line with the NDRP Research Agenda. It will also explore the lifelong impacts of restrictive practices, and the evidence gaps that need addressing across all sectors.
Venue: Online Zoom event with Auslan and Captions.
The event is free. You can register by visiting the event on Humanitix.
Reel inclusion: Disability in Film and TV – The Disability Dialogue
Tuesday, 26th November at 7:00pm AEDT.
Disability representation in the media is important and necessary for a more inclusive society – but is it being done right? How can we make it better?
The media is a powerful tool for visibility, changing perceptions, and representing people with disability in an authentic way. But sometimes – more often than we’d like – it reaffirms narratives and falls into the trap of ‘inspiration porn.’
With less than 10% of people on screen with a disability (and only 5.3% behind the camera), people with disability deserve to be represented in a way that’s real and shows who we really are – which is ourselves!
Join us on Tuesday, 26th November at 7:00pm for our next Open Dialogue where we’ll set the stage for another lively discussion about what we like to see when we see ourselves on screen, and what just doesn’t make the cut.
We’ll also have a brief report back from our Disability Discovery project on foundational supports – so be sure to register today!
Access our rules of engagement for our events
Victoria
The Premiere of the new SRS Studios documentary! – Arts Access Victoria
The Other Film Festival, AAV and ACMI presents the screening of three local Deaf and Disabled short films.
Featuring the launch of the new SRS Studios documentary, ‘Home Is Where The Art Is’. A film that takes you inside AAV’s SRS (Supported Residential Services) Studios. Where artists have been creating works for over 30 years.
Screening program includes: ‘Blue’ short film by Irene Holub and ‘Bus Stop’ by Vinh Ngyuen.
There will be a Questions and Answers session and afternoon tea following the screenings.
When: Tuesday, 3rd December from 2:00pm to 4:00pm AEDT.
Where: ACMI (Federation Square), Cinema 2
Cost: Free
Access: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilet, Auslan Interpreted, captioning, quiet space, assistance animals welcome.
Contact: Phone 03 9699 8299 or email info@artsaccess.com.au.
To register visit the Access Arts website.
South Australia
Chihuly in the Botanic Garden Audio Described Tour – Access2Arts
Curated by Access2Arts (A2A) and the Botanic Garden, the route will highlight a selection of stunning large-scale glass artworks across the Garden, with thoughtful description and interpretation of the artwork and botanical surroundings by qualified audio describer guides from Access2Arts.
The length of the tour will be 2 hours, approximately 1.5km, crossing various terrain including bitumen, gravel, sawdust and grass. A short rest stop is included in this time. Places are limited, register now.
For more information, please see the Chihuly in the Botanic Garden Access Guide
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024
Time: 2:00pm to 4:00pm ACDT.
Cost: $5 per person
Location: Visitor Information Booth, Adelaide Botanic Garden
To book visit the Access2Arts website.
Adventures in ‘A eye’ An exciting Multi-Arts Launch – Vistas and Visions of a Blind Man
Saturday, 7th December from 2:30pm to 4:00pm ACDT.
Totally blind Tony Doyle uses AI to put his voice to his book of poems, find out how it’s done and hear examples at the multi-arts project launch which will feature a brief project outline and demo by Tony Doyle and Sonya Corcoran. Poems written by Tony Doyle with AI-simulated voice. Live music by The Orchid Collective. Music that won’t blast your ears off.
Location: The Wassail Wine Bar, 95 Prospect Road, Prospect.
Free event, all welcome. Full bar facility, snacks available. This is an International Day of Disability Event. Accessible venue; assistance available if required.
For further information call Tony on 0417 798 857.
Support our work
By donating to BCA, you contribute to important programs and services that empower our community. Every dollar goes a long way in helping us achieve our purpose and enhancing the lives of those we serve.
Have you got something to contribute?
If you have something you would like included in the Member Update, please send it to memberupdate@bca.org.au or call us on 1800 033 660. Items received by 12:00pm Monday will be considered for publishing in the Wednesday update.
Blind Citizens Australia
Email: bca@bca.org.au
Website: www.bca.org.au
ABN: 90 006 985 226
BCA acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea, and community. We also pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders past, present, and future.