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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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”.
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.
REGULAR EVENTS
Monthly Bushwalks hosted by Friends of Retina Australia Perth
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.
Trivia Night hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Saturday, 8:00pm to 9:00pm
Online
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.
Zoom Fitness Program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria
Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 10:15am (dial in 9:20am)
Online via Zoom
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
Weekly Vision Impaired Exercise Classes hosted by Canberra Blind Society
Every Thursday, 1:30pm to 2:30pm
The Griffin Centre, 6/20 Genge Street, Canberra ACT
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.
Monthly Audio Book Club hosted by Canberra Blind Society
First Wednesday of each month, 10:00am
Canberra Blind Society, 20 Genge Street, Canberra ACT
The Wednesday Audio Book Group invites book lovers to explore and discuss a diverse range of books with an equally diverse range of peers.
Monthly Sense-able Cooking Group hosted by Canberra Blind Society
Third Friday of each month, 10:00am
Canberra Blind Society, 20 Genge Street, Canberra ACT
The Friday Sense-Able Cooking Group is designed to help people with diminishing vision to prepare meals in confidence. Have fun with friends, try new recipes, learn about new products and how to use your other senses to help maintain your independence in the kitchen.
Fortnightly Arts and Craft Group hosted by Canberra Blind Society
Second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, 10:00am
Canberra Blind Society, 20 Genge Street, Canberra ACT
The Wednesday Art & Crafts Group encourages participants to explore and unleash their creative spirit in a social and supportive environment.
Book Club hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Online via Zoom (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.
Travel Guides hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Tuesday, 1:00pm
Online via Zoon (link here)
· 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. ·
Music Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Wednesday, 7:30pm
Online via Zoom (link here)
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.
Guitar Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Saturday, 2:00pm
Online via Zoom (link here)
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.
Assistive Technology Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Monday, 8:00pm
Online via Zoom (link here)
· 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.
Gardening Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Wednesday, 7:30pm
Online via Zoom (link here)
· 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!
Acquired Sight Loss Group hosted by Blind Citizens Australia
Every Monday, 7:30pm
Phone (dial 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
Wangaratta Support Group hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria
First Wednesday of each month, 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.
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.