In early December last year, a long-time supporter of the St John Eye Van, UD Trucks was presented with a Priory Vote of Thanks for its support of the vital regional health initiative by St John Queensland.
Hauled by a Quon prime mover, a mobile eye health clinic operates throughout regional Queensland providing eye health checks and surgical procedures in areas where access to health care can be limited.
The partnership, which now spans more than a decade has allowed disadvantaged communities to access services that had previously only been accessible in capital cities.
The recognition was presented to UD Trucks vice president marketing and sales Philippa Wood, by the Queensland Governor General, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Deputy Prior and Dame of Grace of the Order of St Johnin a ceremony at Queensland Government House.
“It’s humbling to see the small part we play in supporting this organisation recognised by those who dedicate so much of their spare time towards supporting community,” Philippa Wood says.
“St John Queensland volunteers provide first aid support at events across the country, we often take for granted their presence until we need them,” she says.
“However, hearing some of the life changing outcomes that have stemmed from the service that the Eye Van provides only reinforces the value that this dedicated team deliver.”
“The real heroes are those working tirelessly in the background to improve the quality of life of those less fortunate than they are.”
The St John Eye Van is equipped to provide retinal screening which can be used to detect diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. These conditions are disproportionally represented amongst indigenous Australians and Torres Strait Islander communities.
“The St John Eye Van combines ophthalmic care with diabetes management strategies in an integrated outreach initiative aimed at closing both the longevity and eye health gaps for First Nations people,” St John Eye Van ophthalmologist Andrew Laming says.
“The program has seen significant growth over the past 12 months. New service locations have been established in Rockhampton, Woorabinda, Blackwater, and Cunnamulla, while cataract surgery has resumed in Emerald, with monthly operating sessions.”
In the 2024 to 2025 financial year, the Eye Van travelled 35,350 kms across eight remote sites, delivered 188 clinic sessions, treated nearly 936 patients, administered 500 injections, 75 laser procedures, and dispensed 450 pairs of glasses.