1:30min
Guide Dogs Victoria CEO Karen Hayes Photo: Guide Dogs Victoria
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By Helen Carter
Journalist
60th anniversary for Guide Dogs Victoria
Guide Dogs Victoria will celebrate 60 years of changing lives on International Guide Dogs Day, 26 April with an afternoon tea at Government House in Melbourne.
CEO Karen Hayes said the Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau, guide dogs, ambassador dogs and staff would gather to thank the many volunteers who had worked to change the lives of Victorians with low vision and blindness.
Guide Dogs Victoria will also have a presence at the Dog Lovers Show at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton on 5-7 May.
Academy foundation changes name
The American Optometric Foundation in its 70th year has officially changed its name to the American Academy of Optometry Foundation, to better align and brand the academy’s foundation.
The foundation is the academy’s philanthropic organisation which administers awards and provides financial support for optometric research and education in vision and eye health to improve clinical patient care.
Over the years Australian optometrists and researchers have been recipients of various awards and grants from the foundation. Like the Facebook page to receive updates on the awards.
Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Alan Finkel
Science prizes closing soon
There are only two weeks left until entries close for the 2017 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science, Australia’s most prestigious and highly regarded awards for outstanding achievements in scientific research, research-based innovation and excellence in science teaching.
Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel called on Australians to nominate outstanding teachers, scientists and innovators for the prizes which recognise the achievements and success of scientists and innovators, and the critical role that science educators play in inspiring students.
Each of the seven prizes include prize money ranging from $50,000 to $250,000.
Nominations close at 5 pm AEST on 12 April.
Higher cost of living for visually impaired
The cost of living for a pensioner with severe visual impairment is 73 per cent higher than for a pensioner whose sight is unaffected, according to a UK report.
The report, by sight-loss charity Thomas Pocklington Trust, found that care and support in the home comprised half of the extra costs incurred. Costs were also higher for transport, food and drinks, and adaptations in the home.