Update from the CEO
Dear Members,
I am excited to introduce Elsbeth (Elly) to the BCA team as our new Executive Assistant.
Elly brings more than 15 years of experience as an Executive Assistant and Practice Manager across the healthcare, corporate and defence sectors. Most recently, she supported the President of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand. During the recruitment process, Elly stood out not only because of her extensive experience, but also because she included a thoughtful audio introduction with her application. Combined with her work at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital and Eye Surgery Consultants, where she managed end-to-end surgical journeys and built strong relationships with patients with vision impairments, it was clear that she shares BCA’s commitment to community.
Elly holds a Project Management Certificate, volunteered with FareShare Australia for eight years, and is a former New Zealand Young Playwright of the Year. Please join me in warmly welcoming her to BCA.
In other news, we recently participated in our quarterly meeting with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) as part of BCA’s ongoing role as a Disability Representative Carer Organisation (DRCO). BCA’s agreement with the NDIA has been renewed, extending our role as a DRCO for a further 12 months. This ongoing partnership ensures we can continue advocating for and representing the interests of people who are blind or vision impaired within the NDIS.
While in Adelaide for the recent Roundtable, I also had the opportunity to meet with members of the South Australia Branch. I always appreciate the chance to connect directly with members.
Finally, I encourage members to read the latest Shirley Fund report, now available on our website. The Shirley Fund forms part of the Jeffrey Blyth Foundation and provides important support for BCA’s work in New South Wales and the ACT, helping to strengthen our advocacy, programs and supports for people who are blind or vision impaired.
– Deb Deshayes, BCA CEO.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Advocacy Update – Martin Stewart
On Wednesday, 15th of May 2024 we received a call from a client after visiting the international Biennale of Sydney art event. She explained her experience in these words:
“I attended the Sydney Biennale on Sunday only to find there was no audio description or audio tour to enable the exhibition to be accessible for someone like me who is blind or vision impaired. I found this shocking as most exhibitions have some kind of audio option.
This link to their accessibility page shows they have considered people with mobility, hearing and sensory disabilities but not for someone with a print disability. I am hoping you might be able to advocate for me on this so the event organisers are aware of this oversight and next time the exhibition is accessible for me.“
We are now pleased to report that this advocacy work with our client has led to this event being what it should be, both accessible and inclusive. When returning in May 2026, she was able to access many exhibits with colour contrasting printed signage as well as audio descriptions.
Furthermore, the information about these positive changes was well publicised in advance. We congratulate the event organisers and our client on this great outcome.
BCA Events
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for June 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, 6th June at 8:00pm AEST.
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. If we are full, or you don’t make it before 8:00pm, you are still very welcome to stay and listen on mute.
- 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
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.
Braille Enthusiasts Peer Group
Tuesday, 9th June at 7:30pm AEST.
Are you passionate about Braille or keen to build your skills? Our Braille Enthusiasts Peer Group is a lively and supportive space for Braille users of all levels. Whether you’re a long-time user, brushing up your skills, or just starting out, this group is all about sharing tips and celebrating the power of Braille in everyday life.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 811 2369 9442
- Passcode: 471895
Music Group
Wednesday, 10th June at 7:30pm AEST.
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: 873 4667 6799
- Passcode: 876125
Around the Branches
National Women’s Branch
Warm up / Catch up NWB June phone chat.
This is a National Women’s Branch members only event.
When: Monday afternoons through June.
Time: 3:00pm to 4:00pm AEST.
During June come join us for a casual Monday afternoon phone chat. Warm up. Bring your tea/coffee. Registration not required.
Phone in details: Call 03 8672 0100. Code: 550136 hash or pound key.
For further information contact Debra via email on Dsim1000@bigpond.net
Casino / Richmond Valley Branch
June Outing
What: Morning Melodies with Phil and Chris Coad.
Where: Evans Head RSL Club.
When: Monday, 15th June 2026.
Time: Leave Casino 9:00am.
Cost: $10 plus lunch.
For more information call Denise on 0448 014 682 or email deniseg.vip@outlook.com
New Horizons
This week, enjoy part one of our two week special on the 2026 Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities Conference.
Take a listen to the New Horizons podcast.
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
“Hear and See Me” Program – Vision Australia
The Ethnic Communities’ Council NSW’s (ECCNSW) “Hear and See Me – Speak My Language Program is an ” initiative dedicated to capturing and celebrating the lived experiences of culturally and linguistically diverse community members navigating life with vision loss. The goal of the Program is to move beyond clinical or service-related discussions and instead highlight personal identity, community connection, and individual resilience.
They are currently recruiting “Storytellers” to participate in a series of podcasts, to align with the ECCNSW Program. As partners, Vision Australia is specifically seeking individuals who are between the age of 18-64 and are comfortable sharing their journey living with a disability, in the following languages: Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese or Hindi.
They also encourage any First Nations who wish to share their story . They highly value the expertise and time of the storytellers. To ensure a respectful and supportive experience:
- Remuneration: Financial remuneration will be provided to all participants who take part as interviewees.
- Privacy: Participants have the option to remain anonymous or use a pseudonym; there is no requirement to disclose a real name to participate if they do not feel comfortable.
If you’re interested or have any questions, please contact Anushka on 0474 443 626 or email Anushka.Singh9@visionaustralia.org
United in Vision 2026 conference – Foundation Fighting Blindness
The United in Vision 2026 conference unites two prestigious events – the Foundation Fighting Blindness VISIONS conference and the Retina International World Congress – into one extraordinary global gathering. Scheduled from Thursday, 11th June to Saturday, 13th June 2026, at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Fort Worth, Texas, this premier event brings together individuals and families impacted by blinding retinal conditions, alongside leading researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, and industry partners, to foster collaboration, innovation, and hope.
This conference brings a community from across the globe and provides a unique opportunity to connect with a others, including those living with retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis, age-related macular degeneration, and other blinding conditions. Attendees will explore cutting-edge advancements in research, emerging therapies, and innovations in assistive technologies, products, and services. Sessions led by globally recognized experts and advocates will address solutions to improve treatment access and enhance quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.
To learn more and to register, visit the Foundation Fighting Blindness website.
2026 Seoul International Music Competition for blind artists
The 2026 Seoul International Music Festival for Blind Artists (SIMB) has been organised to support talented vision impaired artists in developing their professional capabilities and presenting their artistry on the global stage, while also promoting auditory-centered creative activities and international cultural arts education exchanges.
Event: 2026 Seoul International Music Festival for Blind Artists (SIMB).
Dates: Tuesday, 25th August to Thursday, 27th August 2026.
Venues: Seoul National University & Youngsan Art Hall.
Main Programs: International Music Competition, Masterclasses, Professors’ Concert, and International Cultural Exchange Programs.
Participants: Visually impaired artists and music students from Korea and abroad.
Competition Information:
Preliminary Round: Online video screening
Final Round: Live competition and performances in Seoul (Seoul National University Concert Hall)
Benefits: Masterclasses and performance opportunities with distinguished professors and musicians from Korea and abroad
For more information, visit the Korea Association for Disabled Performing Arts website.
Victoria
Design and Cartier – National Gallery Victoria
Thursday, 18th June from 11:00am to 11:30am AEST.
Are you interested in a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria but cannot physically visit? They would love to see you, your community group or aged care centre through their online program, Gallery Visits You.
Join them for an introduction to 2026 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces: CARTIER (Friday, 12th June – Sunday, 4th October 2026). Discuss the stories and ideas behind some of the extraordinary objects featured in the exhibition, from precious jewels and historic gemstones to iconic watches and timepieces.
This is an online event. To book your free ticket visit the National Gallery of Victoria website.
Join an Inclusive Arts Studio! Arts Access Victoria (AAV)
AAV has many arts studios across Melbourne. We are always looking for new participants. No experience required! We have studios for both NDIS-funded and non-funded Deaf and Disabled people.
Our new Footscray studios allow you to explore performance or digital art. In partnership with Footscray Community Arts. Learn more about our Footscray Studios on our website.
Nimbus studio offers a welcoming space for Deaf and Disabled artists to grow their visual arts practice. Held at Bundoora Homestead Art Centre. Find out more about Nimbus on the AAV website.
Night Visions – Audio Described Tour – Access2Arts
Night Visions can be enjoyed through a guided, audio described tour specifically for those with low vision or who are blind.
Return to the spellbinding odyssey in Adelaide Botanic Garden! Step beyond the ordinary and back into a realm where reality blurs for a special restaging of the city’s favourite after-dark spectacle. Back by overwhelming demand captivating audiences night after night, Night Visions invites you to cross the threshold into a mesmerising realm where reality bends and imagination flourishes.
Where: Meet at Box Office outside Adelaide Botanic Garden Main Gate.
When: Tuesday, 7th July at 6:00pm.
Tickets: $40
To learn more, visit the Access2Arts website.
South Australia
City Lights – Audio Described Tour – Access2Arts
Tuesday, 14th July at 6:00pm ACST.
City Lights can be enjoyed through a guided, audio-described tour specifically for those with low vision or who are blind.
This year, City Lights returns with an all-new series of exciting free installations featuring interactive experiences, stunning projections, and captivating roaming performances created by world-renowned artists and creative studios.
Please note that this is a free service, but registrations are essential to reserve your place.
There may be photography and filming for a short period of time during the tour. If you do not wish to be captured in imagery, please advise an Access2Arts staff member on the night.
Where: Meet at National War Memorial, North Terrace.
For more information, visit the Access2Arts website.
Canberra
Reminder: MyWay+ Concessions Expire 30 June 2026 – Transport Canberra
Transport Canberra is reminding all MyWay+ concession holders (except ACT Seniors) to revalidate their concession before Tuesday, 30th June 2026 to continue receiving discounted fares. This includes students, Health Care Card holders, DVA Gold Card holders, Companion Card holders, ACT Services Access card holders, and people with a Permanent Impairment ID card.
Customers with a registered MyWay+ account can update their concession details online by logging into their account and selecting “register concession.” Those travelling with an unregistered card should note that, once the concession expires, fares will automatically revert to full adult pricing unless the concession is revalidated.
For more information, visit the MyWay+ website or contact Transport Canberra on 13 17 10.
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.