This past September, we had the privilige of hosting another successful BCA Connect. We would like to thank everyone who joined and participated in the conference.
Over the course of the day, attendees were able to learn about and discuss a variety of topics These topics were chosen by our members in a survey earlier this year. Discussions included several guest speakers and subject matter experts.
Session Summaries
Below you can find the recordings of every session, as well as any resources arising from the sessions.
Introduction and Welcome
This session featured an opening musical performance and interview with Rachel Leahcar, moderated by Stephen Jolley. This was followed by a welcome from Fiona Woods, President of Blind Citizens Australia.
Watch the recording of the session here.
BCA’s Pedestrian Safety Policy
Launch of BCA’s updated Pedestrian Safety Policy presented by Prue Watt OAM, BCA Director and Chair National Policy Council and Jackson Reynolds-Ryan, BCA Policy and Campaigns Officer.
Watch the recording of the session here.
Assistive and Smart Technology
Panel discussion on using the latest forms of assistive and smart technology.
Host: Stephen Jolley, Vision Australia Radio Talking Tech producer and BCA member
Panel: David Woodbridge, Vision Australia National Advisor on Access Technology
Ramona Mandy, HumanWare Technical Support Assistant, and BCA member
Kate Begley, Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions Strategic Policy Advisor
Watch the recording of the session here.
Natural Disasters and Emergency Health Response
Panel discussion about the importance of emergency preparedness for people who are blind or vision impaired, including tips for being prepared and how and when to access assistance and support when needed.
Host: Jane Britt, BCA Team Leader Policy and Advocacy
Panel: Michelle Villaneuve, Centre for Disability Research and Policy Deputy Director and University of Sydney lecturer
Kate Faith, New South Wales Fire Rescue Firefighter
Melissa Fox, Health Consumers Queensland Chief Executive Officer
BCA Resources for Emergency Response and Preparedness (Word Doc)
Watch the recording of the session here.
Life Hacks
An interactive discussion sharing the best ‘life hacks’ for people who are blind or vision impaired, hosted by Helen Freris, BCA Director and Chair BCA Engage.
You can read about all the life hacks that people shared in this document.
Watch the recording of the session here.
Reflections of the Past Twelve Months and Closing Remarks
We look back since the last BCA Connect event and celebrate our achievements of the past 12 months. Hosted by Stephen Belbin, BCA Vice President, Branch Liaison Officer and Chair Business Continuity Committee.
We also hear some closing remarks from Sally Aurisch, Chief Executive Officer and enjoy a musical performance from Brendan Scott.