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Community Billboard

Retina Australia’s Community Billboard is a collaboration with other community organisations around the country. This calendar of activities and events aims to provide opportunities that promote learning, wellbeing, participation, and social engagement and connection.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Origami Folding Workshop hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria and Guide Dogs Victoria

17 & 24 September / 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 October – 11:00am to 1:00pm

Kooyong VIC

Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria (BSRV) and Guide Dogs Victoria invite you to join our origami Christmas decoration project.

This collaborative project between BSRV and Guide Dogs Victoria offers a fun and creative way to connect with others who are blind or vision impaired, supported by friendly and dedicated volunteers. Whether you’re new to origami or have some experience, everyone is welcome—and no prior skills are needed. Step-by-step guidance will be provided to ensure you feel confident and supported throughout.

Over the course of the workshops, you’ll:

  • Learn basic paper folding techniques
  • Progress to using decorative paper
  • Create a range of festive decorations including cranes, stars, boxes and hearts

Your final creations will be gifted to a local not-for-profit organisation to help decorate a Christmas tree and spread joy to others.

Register here about Origami Folding Workshop hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria and Guide Dogs Victoria

Balancing Life and Building Resilience Online Webinar hosted by AlikeWA

23 September – 10:30am to 12:30pm

Online

Join Justine Martin for an empowering session designed for those working in the peer support sector. Discover practical tools to strengthen self-awareness, cultivate inner resilience, and create a more sustainable and fulfilling work-life balance.

Through the power of storytelling, interactive group discussions, and guided reflection, Justine will share strategies to help you care for yourself while continuing to provide meaningful support to others. Walk away with fresh insights and actionable techniques to navigate challenges with confidence and balance.

Register here about Balancing Life and Building Resilience Online Webinar hosted by AlikeWA

Developmental Disability and Deafblindness Adelaide Workshop hosted by Deafblind Information Australia

23-24 September – 9:30am to 4:30pm each day

Adelaide SA

This practical workshop is suitable for anyone with a connection to combined deafness and blindness, sensory disability, meaning one or more of the senses are affected and/or complex disability. This two-day workshop will cover:

  • how to recognise deafblindness
  • understanding access needs
  • where to find help to support the person’s senses
  • hand-under-hand teaching methods
  • creating shared experiences
  • developing shared meaning
  • learning and practicing deafblind communication methods
  • resources and tools to support your learning
Register here about Developmental Disability and Deafblindness Adelaide Workshop hosted by Deafblind Information Australia

Junior Rangers Program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

3 October – 10:30am to 1:00pm

Greenvale VIC

Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria invite primary school aged children
who are blind or vision impaired to become a wildlife detective at Woodlands Historic Park this
school holidays!

Guided by a Parks Victoria ranger, you will learn the secrets of the
bush, feel the textures and shapes of animal pelts and skulls, have fun
with casts of animal paw prints, discover animal homes in the hollows
of ancient River Red Gums and meet a few special taxidermy animals.

Participants should bring a water bottle, hat and closed-toe shoes.

Register here about Junior Rangers Program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

How to Facilitate a Support Group hosted by AlikeWA

6 October – 10:00am to 12:00pm

Kardinya WA

This workshop defines what makes an effective Facilitator, the roles and responsibilities of a Peer Support Group Facilitator, and troubleshooting tips. The session explores the importance of communication and provides useful tools to communicate effectively. The session also considers the perception of conflict and how to manage moments of conflict.

Register here about How to Facilitate a Support Group hosted by AlikeWA

Blind and Low Vision Tennis in Lara hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

12 October – 10:00am to 1:00pm

Lara VIC

A perfect opportunity to play blind tennis, learn new skills, get active and socialise! All equipment will be provided. All welcome.

Blind Tennis is played with a yellow or black audible foam ball, using junior tennis racquets and on a court marked out with tactile lines. The standard rules of tennis apply with a few modifications.

This event is open to children and adults with vision loss, their families and support workers.

Children will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
BBQ lunch and tea and coffee provided.

Register here about Blind and Low Vision Tennis in Lara hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

Storytime with Sally Rippin: The World We Can Build hosted by Vision Australia

22 October – 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Warrnambool VIC

The Vision Australia Library invite you to join us for a magical Storytime adventure, with best-selling author and Australian Children’s Laureate Sally Rippin.

Sally is reading her brand-new book, created in collaboration with Eliza Hull, The World We Can Build.

Perfect for children aged 3–7 years, this heart-warming session will spark imagination and creativity in our youngest book lovers.

After Sally’s book reading, there will be a fun interactive tactile activity.  A creative opportunity for everyone to bring Sally’s storybook to life!

Register here about Storytime with Sally Rippin: The World We Can Build hosted by Vision Australia

Inherited Retinal Disease Patient & Family Engagement Day

25 October – 9:30am to 4:00pm

Kooyong VIC

Hosted by UNSW Sydney (School of Clinical Medicine) and the Children’s Medical Research Institute (Stem Cell Medicine group), this informative and inspiring event is designed for individuals and families impacted by an inherited retinal disease (IRD), alongside health professionals who support this community. 

Join us for an update on IRD research that is happening across Australia and internationally including gene therapies, optogenetics, cell therapies & the bionic eye. This is a great opportunity to connect with others impacted by IRDs as well as experts and community support organisations. This event is free of charge.

This event is proudly supported by Retina Australia and Vision Australia.

Register here about Inherited Retinal Disease Patient & Family Engagement Day

RGU Program: Navigating the NDIS and Advocacy hosted by Alike WA

30 October – 12:30pm to 2:30pm

Kardinya WA

Facilitated by Andrew Fairbairn, join us for a practical workshop designed to build your confidence in navigating the NDIS for you or your loved one. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to understand how the NDIS works, access the right funding supports, and make the most of your NDIS plan. You will learn how to engage support workers, coordinate supports effectively, and advocate for yourself or a loved one to achieve meaningful goals and live a good life.

Register here about RGU Program: Navigating the NDIS and Advocacy hosted by Alike WA

South Metro Peer Support Network November Meeting hosted by AlikeWA

5 November – 9:00am to 11:00am

TBC (WA)

The South Metro Peer Network provides a welcoming space for Peer Support Groups and organisations based in the South Metro area to network, share information, and access training and education that will support their work in the local community. It provides quarterly meetings throughout the year, building stronger connections between local groups, and having a strong focus on place-based needs and solutions.

This month’s workshop – Grants and Fundraising – is an interactive session covers the basics of fundraising and grant writing. Learn how to build and maintain a fundraising program, identify suitable funding opportunities and prepare a strong grant application. Come with your project ideas and details of grants programs you are preparing for.

Meetings include round robin, workshop, and networking morning tea. Registration essential for catering purposes.

Register here about South Metro Peer Support Network November Meeting hosted by AlikeWA

In Conversation with Dave Steele, The Blind Poet hosted by Vision Australia

10 November – 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Online

The Vision Australia Library have the privilege of interviewing award-winning poet, author, singer and advocate for the blind…. Dave Steele.

Dave was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a genetic eye condition, in 2014. Since his diagnosis, Dave has tirelessly advocated for the rights of blind and low vision people across the world. His collaborative work with global brands has earned him recognition and awards, while advancing the global conversation on blindness and disability.

As a therapeutic outlet for himself, Dave turned to writing poetry. His heartfelt poetry has become a voice for all affected by blindness and low vision. Dave’s poetry is a testament to the transformative power of art and advocacy, proclaiming “Disability isn’t an excuse to do less but a reason to be more”.

Register here about In Conversation with Dave Steele, The Blind Poet hosted by Vision Australia

How to Start a Support Group Workshop hosted by AlikeWA

12 November – 9:30am to 11:30am

Willagee WA

Are you interested in starting a Peer Support Group, or are you in the early stages of developing and delivering a group? This free workshop provides the foundational steps to develop the purpose, vision and mission of your Peer Support Group through an active learning process.

Register here about How to Start a Support Group Workshop hosted by AlikeWA

REGULAR EVENTS

Monthly Bushwalks hosted by Friends of Retina Australia Perth

Hosted monthly

Various locations in and around Perth WA

Join Friends of Retina Australia Perth for their monthly local bushwalks. The group will take you on accessible hikes at stunning locations in and around Perth WA. Bushwalks usually occur first thing in the morning, followed by brunch at a local cafe.

To join the mailing list and be among the first to find out about upcoming bushwalks, please RSVP below.

Please also advise if you need a sighted guide, or if you would like a lift to the walk start so the group can assist you.

Find out more about Monthly Bushwalks hosted by Friends of Retina Australia Perth

Trivia Night hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Weekly each Saturday at 8:00pm-9:00pm AEDT

Location: Online event

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.

Find out more about Trivia Night hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Zoom Fitness Program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

Monday to Friday, dial in 9:20am, class starts at 9:30am – 10:15am ADST

Location: Online Zoom platform

BSRV offers a range of FREE online fitness sessions for blind and vision impaired people to get fit at home. All fitness levels are welcome and no equipment is necessary
Monday – yoga
Tuesday – gentle stretches & meditation
Wednesday/Friday YouTube Walking Session
Thursday – gentle pilates

Find out more here about Zoom Fitness Program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

Weekly Vision Impaired Exercise Classes hosted by Canberra Blind Society

Every Thursday from February 2025, 1:30pm-2:30pm ADST

Location: The Griffin Centre, 6 / 20 Genge Street, Canberra ACT 2601

Canberra Blind Society (CBS) is commencing weekly exercise classes. These sessions are aimed to provide clients who have a vision impairment a chance to engage in regular exercise within a safe and supportive environment, promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging them to continue these activities within the broader community. This service is run by a qualified exercise physiologist from Citrus Rehabilitation and has been modified for persons with a vision impairment.

Find out more here about Weekly Vision Impaired Exercise Classes hosted by Canberra Blind Society

Book Club hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Wednesday at 7:00pm AEDT

Location: Online Zoom platform – link here

Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 816 6512 0720

· Passcode: 927195

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.

Find out more about Book Club hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Travel Guides hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Tuesday at 1:00pm AEDT

Location: Join via weblink 

· Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 865 7059 9837

· Passcode: 720093

If you’re eager to gain invaluable insights into traveling confidently, whether it’s exploring your local surroundings or journeying to far-flung destinations both nationally and internationally, this group is your perfect travel companion. With a wealth of lived experience in traveling join Adrian Watson in discussions that will be both informative and enjoyable, arming you with the essential knowledge and tools necessary to embark on thrilling adventures. ·

Find out more here about Travel Guides hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Music Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Wednesday at 7:30pm AEDT

Location: Online via weblink 

Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 828 0072 5037 
Passcode: 014935 

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. 

Find out more about Music Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Guitar Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Saturday at 2:00pm AEDT

Location: Online via weblink 
Join with one tap mobile 
Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 859 1306 9334 
Passcode: 505533

The guitar group offers a welcoming space for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced, to come together to share tips and techniques. This group is an open platform for guitar enthusiasts where you can find support and share resources to help you along your musical journey.  

Find out more about Guitar Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Assistive Technology Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Monday at 8:00pm AEDT

Location: Online via weblink 

· Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 867 4417 4647

· Passcode: 581563

Assistive Technology is useful and increasingly necessary in our daily lives. However, not everything is easy to navigate, and new technologies develop every day. Join Adam and others to learn more about assistive technology and how to get the best from it.

Find out more about Assistive Technology Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Gardening Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Wednesday at 7:30pm AEDT

Location: Online via weblink 

· Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 876 2151 0314

· Passcode: 242903

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!

Find out more about Gardening Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Acquired Sight Loss Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Every Monday at 7:30pm AEDT

· Location – Via by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 830 3001 8448

· Passcode: 391396

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

Find out more about Acquired Sight Loss Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia

Wangaratta Support Group hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

First Wednesday of each month at 10:30am

Wangaratta VIC

Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria’s Wangaratta Peer Support Group has a coffee and cake catch up, for people who are blind or have low vision, each month.

Come along to have a chat, meet new people and discuss how to support each other and the kinds of activities you’d like to do together…. while enjoying great coffee and delicious food.

Where: Where is My Coffee (Cafe), 1/103 Murphy Street, Wangaratta VIC

RSVP is essential by the last Wednesday of the month.

Please provide your name, contact number, email address and if you will be bringing a support or have any support needs.

RSVP Now about Wangaratta Support Group hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria

Disclaimer: The information provided on this Community Billboard is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any activities, events, or external organisations mentioned. Please exercise your own judgment and discretion when participating in any activities or events listed here.

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RA Australia logo
Retina Australia is an ACNC registered charity - Visit ACNC
  • 1800 999 870
  • info@retinaaustralia.com.au
  • Level 3 Ross House 247-251 Flinders Lane
    Melbourne VICTORIA 3000
  • About Us
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