The Board of Blind Citizens Australia regretfully announces the resignation of our President, Vaughn Bennison. Vaughn has made the decision to step down due to his increasing professional, advocacy and family commitments. Please see his message to BCA members below.
Vaughn’s contribution as President of BCA has been significant. Since commencing the role at the end of 2024, Vaughn oversaw the successful delivery of BCA’s 50th Anniversary Convention and celebration. He has further supported the Board, CEO, and staff with his governance expertise and contributed to the renewed approach for New Horizons. However, his impact extends much further than his term as President. Many members will know Vaughn through his years of dedicated production for New Horizons and his generosity in sharing his interviewing and recording skills for BCA events. We thank him for his service.
Following Vaughn’s resignation, the Board has appointed me to the role of Acting President and Neale Huth as Acting Vice President. We will serve in these capacities for an interim period while the Board moves to permanently fill this vacancy.
I look forward to serving the BCA membership during this time and ensuring the continued progress of our organisation.
Should you wish to contact me, you can do so via president@bca.org.au
Helen Freris,
Acting President.
Message from Vaughn Bennison
It is with great regret that I announce my resignation as President of Blind Citizens Australia – effective last Friday.
Although it has given me great joy, challenge and opportunity to serve as President over the last year or so, my full-time work and other significant commitments mean that I cannot give this key role the attention, time and commitment it so richly deserves.
As the peak, united voice of Australians who are blind or vision impaired, BCA must maintain momentum in its policy and advocacy work, peer support and networking, strong and sound governance and speak for members and the wider vision impaired community. I am proud of what BCA has achieved since I became President and I know that momentum will be maintained because of the hard and dedicated work of our CEO, Deb, and her team, as well as Helen and the rest of the Board. I will continue to work in the background as a BCA member to do what I can to see BCA achieve its goals and maintain pressure on government, the private sector and on disability service providers and other community sector organisations to ensure equality and equity for blind and vision impaired people across Australia. I encourage you to support the positive work BCA is doing by attending events, communicating with BCA staff and Board members and ensuring the voices of Australians who are blind or vision impaired are heard loud and clear.
Vaughn Bennison.
CEO Update
On behalf of the staff, I would like to acknowledge Vaughn’s resignation as President of BCA. Having worked closely with Vaughn over the past year, I have seen firsthand his commitment to our mission. While we regretfully see him step down, we fully support his decision to prioritise his professional and family commitments. I am personally grateful for the sound governance expertise and support Vaughn provided me as CEO. I especially valued his faith in my leadership and his ability to empower me to move the organisation’s operations forward.
As we move into this next chapter, I am pleased to be working alongside Helen Freris in her capacity as Acting President to ensure a smooth transition and continued energy for our work.
In other news, I would also like to extend my congratulations to BCA member Ernest Drew, who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division. Ernest has made a significant contribution to BCA over many years, including serving as President of the Geelong Branch in 2012, as a Committee Member from 2008, and as the initiator of the White Cane Walk in 2014, in collaboration with Guide Dogs Victoria. This well-deserved recognition reflects Ernest’s long-standing commitment to advocacy and community engagement, and we congratulate him on this achievement.
As 2026 gets off to a busy start, leaders of BCA’s Branches around the nation are gearing up activities that bring members together and strengthen local connections. You are invited to support your local Branch by donating to help ensure these activities can continue, and that Branches have the resources they need to engage meaningfully within their communities.
For those new to BCA, our Branches include: Sydney Branch, Casino/Richmond Valley Branch, Central West NSW Branch, Newcastle-Hunter Branch, Tweed Valley Branch, ACT Branch, Queensland Branch, South Australia Branch, Tasmania Branch, Western Australia Branch, and our special interest Branch, the National Women’s Branch.
To get involved in Branch activities or to make a donation, please contact your local Branch. If you are a BCA Backer, you may also nominate an amount to be directed to your chosen Branch. Further information about BCA Branches is available on the BCA website.
And finally, thank you to those who have already expressed interest in the 2027 Planning Committee. A reminder that Expressions of Interest remain open, so please email ceo@bca.org.au by Sunday, 8th February 2026 with your name, a few sentences on why you’d like to join and any relevant experience.
Clarification regarding BCA’s RISE Program Mentor Expressions of Interest
In our recent call for mentors for the 2026 RISE Program, it was stated that the role would be on a voluntary basis. We wish to clarify that this was a procedural error and does not reflect a final decision on the program’s structure.
BCA has been reviewing its approach to the remuneration of lived expertise and professionalised mentoring to ensure it aligns with evolving sector standards. This program, along with all our previous programs, are enabled by Government funding. While this review is underway, specifically regarding grant compliance and departmental approvals, a final decision on the remuneration model for the RISE program has not yet been finalised.
We apologise for any confusion caused by the previous notice. We value the feedback from our members, as well as the commitment of those who have already expressed an interest in mentoring and look forward to providing a more detailed update as our discussions with funders and stakeholders’ progress.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
BCA Events
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for February 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.
2026 BCA Hugh Jeffrey Scholarship - Applications now open
Applications for the 2026 BCA Hugh Jeffrey Scholarship are now open!
If you would like to receive an application form, please email bca@bca.org.au to confirm your eligibility.
This scholarship is open to anyone currently enrolled in or planning on enrolling in a post-secondary study program. Scholarship amounts of up to $5,000 are awarded to support students in their studies.
To learn more about the application process, visit our website.
Applications close on Wednesday, 4th February 2026 at 11:59pm AEDT.
For more information, please contact Layal Hage via email at layal.hage@bca.org.au
BCA Inform – My Aged Care Reform
Tuesday, 3rd February from 7:30pm to 9:00pm AEDT.
Join us for a BCA Inform session exploring the latest Australian aged care reforms, with a particular focus on what they mean for older Australians who are blind or vision impaired. The session will include an update on the new Aged Care Act and the Support at Home Program, and what these changes may mean in practice.
To register for the event please visit the Humanitix website.
In preparation for upcoming Inform sessions, we would like to understand what percentage of our members are on the NDIS and what percentage are using My Aged Care. We have created a short anonymous survey to capture this information and we’d appreciate your response. To complete the survey visit: https://form.jotform.com/260107572129857
Trivia
Saturday, 31st January 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 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.
Note the Zoom joining information has been refreshed for this year, so please see below for the new details.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile (via non-iOS)
- Join with one tap mobile using the number below (via iOS):
+61280156011,,84491693225#,,,,*424050# - Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 844 9169 3225
- Passcode: 424050
Peer Connect Groups
Employment Group
Monday, 2nd February at 7:30pm AEDT.
Are you actively seeking employment or looking to navigate the job market? Join our Employment Peer Connect Group – a supportive space where job seekers can come together to share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange valuable tips and resources. Whether you’re job hunting, navigating interviews, or exploring career opportunities, this group offers a chance to connect with others on a similar journey.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 864 4868 5967
- Passcode: 337783
Book Club
Wednesday, 4th February at 7:00pm AEDT.
In this meeting, the group will discuss “The Sam Gunn Omnibus” by Ben Bova and “The Glassmaker” by Tracy Chevalier available from the Vision Australia library. This group is open to all readers, whether you’ve just embarked on your reading journey or have been immersed in books for many years you are welcome to come along. You will have the chance to discuss books, exchange ideas, and broaden your horizons through the magic of storytelling.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 850 6354 6612
- Passcode: 934727
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Policy Update – Melanie Chatfield
The NDIA has announced that it is working with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to improve how service agreements are used under the Scheme. This project seeks to make service agreements clearer, fairer and easier to use. The Agency wants to hear from participants, families, carers, people who have used service agreements before, and people who have not used service agreements.
The NDIA will close the consultation on Friday, 27th February 2026.
You can access more information about the project on the NDIS Engage webpage.
Around the Branches
National Women’s Branch
Wellness Package
Members of the Women’s Branch are invited to access a free Wellness Package, offered by Jenny Dodd of Blind Sports Victoria. Called The Journey Within, these meditations and relaxations are designed to soothe your soul.
Interested branch members, please contact Chire Fulford at chirefulford1@gmail.com
News From Outside BCA
National
Disability Royal Commission: National Online Forum – People with Disability Australia
PWDA is hosting a national online forum to reflect on where we are more than two years after the Disability Royal Commission Final Report was released. People with disability are still waiting to see real change. This forum is a space to reflect on what has improved, what has not and what needs to happen next.
When: Friday, 6th February 2026
- 1:00pm – 2:30pm AEDT (Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Tasmania)
- 12:00pm – 1:30pm AEST (Brisbane)
- 12:30pm – 2:00pm ADST (Adelaide)
- 11:30am – 1:00pm ACST (Darwin)
- 10:00am – 11:30am AWST (Perth)
Where: Zoom (Meeting link will be sent following your registration)
Cost: Free
Jennifer Burbidge Short Story Award 2026 – Williamstown Literary Festival
The Jennifer Burbidge Short Story Award was established in 2001 by Mary and Andrew Burbidge to honour the life of their eldest daughter, Jennifer, who died aged 21. The prize is funded by royalties from Mary Burbidge’s memoir Forever Baby, published by Harper Collins in 1999, and welcomes short stories of fiction or non-fiction up to 3000 words on the theme of disability.
The winner will receive $500. For more information visit the Willy Lit Fest website.
Apply and take part in the competition.
Entries close on Sunday, 8th March 2026.
New South Wales
Join the NSW Ageing and Disability Advisory Board – NSW Ageing and Disability Commission
The NSW Ageing and Disability Commission (ADC) is seeking new members for the NSW Ageing and Disability Advisory Board (Advisory Board) from March 2026.
The primary role of the Advisory Board is to advise the Commissioner on matters relevant to the function of the ADC, including abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults with disability and older people living in the community in NSW. Board members are to have relevant knowledge of and experience in matters relating to adults with disability and older people.
The ADC is particularly interested in receiving expressions of interest from people across rural and regional NSW who are:
- A person with lived experience of disability, and/or
- An older person
- From multicultural or First Nations communities
EOIs should discuss how you meet some or all of the following criteria:
- Advocacy experience for older people and adults with disability
- A strong understanding of issues relating to abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older people and adults with disability
- Experience representing those employed in disability or aged care services
Send in an EOI explaining how you meet the criteria, any reasons why you may be suitable for the role, and include your name and contact details.
These can be sent via email to commissioner@adc.nsw.gov.au by COB Monday, 9th February 2026.
To get more information, visit the Ageing and Disability Commission website.
Victoria
Craft Group – Deafblind Victoria
Wednesday, 11th February from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
Location: Jenny Florence Room, Level 3, Ross House.
Are you interested in crafting? Spend time with others making beautiful creations in a relaxed, social setting.
Please RSVP to rodney.baskett@deafblindvictoria.com by Monday, 9th February.
Queensland
Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Report 2025 Forum – Queenslanders with Disability Network
Join us for an important forum to hear from the Lead Researcher Dr Kelsey Chapman and Citizen Scientists as we explore the results of the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey 2025.
Hear about the trends and the key things that stand out about shaping future direction.
What: Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Report 2025 Forum
When: Thursday, 5th February
Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: Online via Zoom
Register to attend via Humanitix.
If you have any questions, please contact QDN Policy Team on 1300 363 783 or email qdn@qdn.org.au
Free Come and Try Golf Clinics – Empower Golf Australia
We are excited to invite the disabled community to attend our upcoming FREE February “Come & Try Golf Clinics”. No prior experience in Golf is needed – just come along and give it a try at the following locations:
Topgolf Gold Coast – First Tuesday of each month from 10:00am to 12:00pm, therefore the next clinic is on Tuesday, 3rd February. Topgolf is an all-weather venue so this clinic goes ahead even if it’s raining.
Oxley – Oxley Golf Club – Third Tuesday of each month between 11:00am and 1:00pm. Therefore next clinic is on Tuesday, 17th February.
Carindale – Pacific Golf Club – Second Tuesday of each month between 10:00am and 12:00pm. Therefore, next clinic is on Tuesday, 10th February.
Bribie Island – Pacific Harbour Golf Club – First Thursday of each month between 10:00am and 12:00pm. Therefore, next clinic is on Thursday, 5th February.
These clinics are open to anyone living with a disability and are run by accredited specialised coaches who provide expert advice and guidance.
Bookings are essential. You can book via the Empower Golf website.
For more information, you can watch the promo video or visit the Empower Golf website.
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.