Tuesday, 15 October 2024

 Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (14:14): Today is International White Cane Day. Held on 15 October every year, it is dedicated to visually impaired people and it is an opportunity to acknowledge their remarkable achievements and advocate for their rights. It is estimated that over 250 million people worldwide are visually impaired, and the white cane is a symbol of independence and achievement. Over 100 years since the white cane was established, it continues to be an instrument in enabling its users to safely anticipate obstacles, scan their surroundings and achieve daily tasks. Whether it is crossing the road or travelling across the world, the device has created a revolutionary impact in providing a more active and independent lifestyle. Vision Australia and the wider blind and low-vision community are celebrating this day across Australia.

One of those celebrations is happening in Dandenong, where around 30 white cane users and Vision Australia staff are walking from Dandenong station to Harmony Square and on to the Dandenong Market. This walk is about those clients coming together to celebrate their independence, but it is also about educating the wider community as to how we can support people who are blind or have low vision to be active and independent in our community.

I would like to commend the staff and volunteers of Vision Australia for the support and services that they offer to visually impaired people in my electorate and around Australia. I believe that it is important that we not only celebrate this day but use it as a reminder of how important education can be when it comes to creating a better understanding of issues impacting members of our community, such as this one. I would like to acknowledge all those who are blind or low vision for the unwavering determination and spirit that they display each and every day. It is not easy to regain one’s independence, and I wish them well on their journeys.