2010 2011
Annual Report
Focus for the Future
++Vision
To be the primary responsive quality service provider to South Australians who are blind or vision
impaired.
++Mission
The RSB is the primary source of assistance giving people with a vision impairment the
opportunity to improve the quality and independence of their lives.
++Contents
History
Corporate Governance
Patrons
Board of Directors
Management
President’s Report
Executive Director’s Report
Community Services
Low Vision Services
RSB Guide Dog Service
RSB Industrial Services
Marketing and Fundraising
My Eye Health Program
Digital Library and Print Alternatives Services
Special Thanks
Bequests
In Memory
Treasurer’s Report
2
2
3
4
5
6
8
12
16
20
24
28
34
36
38
40
41
42
++History
It began with a blind man’s vision.
It took the vision of a blind man to truly appreciate the needs of people who were blind in South
Australia and understand the plight they faced in the late 19th century.
Andrew Whyte Hendry, who was blinded after a childhood accident, had the conviction and
determination to start an industrial training school for the blind in 1884, which has steadily grown
and flourished into the multi-faceted Royal Society for the Blind of the 21st Century.
With the help of Sir Charles Goode, a philanthropist, Andrew’s dream was realised on 21
November 1884 when the Institute for the Blind was formed – the genesis of what would become
the Royal Society for the Blind of South Australia (RSB).
Through 127 years of supporting South Australia’s blind and vision impaired community, the RSB
has grown from an ambitious employment and training centre, to be the primary provider of
services to more than 12,000 people who are blind or vision impaired.
The RSB holds true today to the vision Andrew Whyte Hendry held in 1884: The Vision to make a
Difference.
++Corporate Governance
Corporate Governance is the process by which the RSB is directed and controlled. The aim
is to ensure that the management of the RSB is ethical and acts in accordance with its
vision and values.
The RSB is regulated by The Royal Institution for the Blind Act (1934) as amended, and its
constitution. These define the rules and processes through which the RSB is managed.
The Board of Directors has responsibility for the governance of the RSB. It sets strategic direction,
monitors the affairs of and reviews the RSB’s performance against targets and objectives.
To assist in this process, the Board has created the following RSB sub-committees to provide
specialist advice:
Client Advisory Committee
Finance and Audit
Nominations
and Governance
All Directors are required to acknowledge and subscribe to the following responsibilities:
To act honestly and in good faith
To use due care and diligence
To act in the best interest of the RSB
To ensure that management is competent
Not to engage in conduct likely to discredit or bring the RSB into disrepute
++Patrons
His Excellency, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AO CSC RANR, Governor of South Australia
14/8/2007 – present
Her Excellency, Mrs. Marjorie
Jackson-Nelson, AC, CVO, MBE
3/11/2001 – 31/7/2007
Sir Eric J. Neal, AC, CVO
22/7/1996 – 3/11/2001
The Honorable Dame Roma Mitchell,
AC, DBE, CVO
6/2/1991 – 21/7/1996
Lieutenant General Sir Donald B. Dunstan, AC, KBE, CB
23/4/1982 – 5/2/1991
Sir Keith Seaman, KCVO, OBE
1/9/1977 – 28/3/1982
Sir Douglas R. Nicholls, KCVO, OBE
1/12/1976 – 30/4/1977
Sir Mark Oliphant, AC, KBE
1/12/1971 – 30/11/1976
Major General Sir James W. Harrison, KCMG, CB, CBE
4/12/1968 – 16/9/1971
Lieutenant General Sir Edric M. Bastyan, KCMG, KCVO, KBE, CB
4/4/1961 – 1/6/1968
Air Vice Marshall Sir Robert George, KCMG, KCVO, KBE, CB, MC
23/2/1953 – 7/3/1960
Lieutenant General Sir C. Willoughby Norrie, KCMG, CB, DSO, MC
19/12/1944 – 19/6/1952
Sir C. Malcolm Barclay – Harvey, KCMG
28/7/1934 – 23/2/1939
Major General Sir Winston Dugan
KCMG, CB, DSO
28/7/1934 – 23/2/1939
Brigadier General The Honorable Sir Alexander G.A. Hore-Ruthven
VC, KCMB, CB, DSO
14/5/1928 – 26/4/1934
Lieutenant Colonel Sir Tom M. Bridges
KCB, KCMG, DSO
4/12/1922 – 4/12/1927
Lieutenant Colonel Sir W.E.G. Archibald Weigall KCMG
9/6/1920 – 30/5/1922
Lieutenant Colonel Sir Henry L. Galway, KCMG, DSO
18/4/1914 – 30/4/1920
Admiral Sir Day Hort Bosanquet,
GCVO, KCB
18/2/1909 – 22/3/1914
Sir George R. Le Hunte, KCMG
1/7/1903 – 18/2/1909
Right Honorable Hallam, Lord Tennyson, KCMG
10/4/1899 – 17/7/1902
Sir Thomas F. Buxton Bt, GCMG
29/10/1895 – 29/3/1899
Right Honorable The Earl of Kintore PC, GCMG
11/4/1889 – 10/4/1895
++Board of Directors
John Stokes
BA FAIM CPMgr ACIS
President
Board Member since March 2007
Ray Clark
JP, AICD, MLBS
Vice President
Board Member since August 1996
Margaret Moxon
BA Grad.Dip.Lib.Stud.
Vice President
Board Member since June 2003
Barry Clarke
MNIA
Treasurer
Board Member since February 1992
David Coppock
Board Member since November 1989
Trevor Basso
BA (ACC), FCA
Board Member since June 1994
Dr Jim Runciman
MB, CHB, FRACS, FRACO
Board Member since June 1996
Kylie Sproston
MEng(Hons), MSc, CEng, MIMechE, AAICD
Board Member since November 2009
Roz Sommariva
N.Path
Board Member since 2010
Tara Mc Knight
BA, BLaw, Grad.Cert.Leg.Prac.
Board Member since 2010
Rob Richards
Cert.App.Sc.
Board Member since
2010
Andrew Daly
BEC, ACA, FAIM,
CPMgr, JP
Board Member since July 1996
++Management
Andrew Daly
Executive Director
Dennis Moir
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Mark Burleigh
Manager, Industrial Services
Margaret Brown
Manager, Community Services
Sandra Wilhelm
Manager, Low Vision Services
Chris Muldoon
Manager, RSB Guide Dog Service
Theo Schaftenaar
Manager, Information Technology
Keith Smith
Manager, Business Services
Diana Swanson
Manager, Marketing
and Fundraising
++President’s Report
I am delighted to present the 2010/11 RSB Annual Report, my third as President. It has been
another exceptional year, with increasing growth; the RSB is now delivering services to
more than 12,000 South Australians who are blind or vision impaired.
Did you know another 150,000 Australians are expected to lose their vision during the next 10
years?
At the RSB, we are focusing on the future to ensure that our services continue to meet demand
and expectation, assisting RSB clients to develop and maintain independence. This annual report
highlights not just successful activities from the past 12 months, but also includes each
department’s ‘Focus for the Future’. From expanding RSB Low Vision Services, to the creation of
a dedicated Child and Youth Service, to moving to a larger site in Noarlunga to meet growing
client needs, to simply spreading the word, I believe the RSB’s future looks brighter than ever.
Helping to lead the way is the My Eye Health community education program – encouraging
individuals to be proactive in managing their eye health.
The My Eye Health Program (MEHP) is a collaborative initiative of four of South Australia’s leading
organisations, the RSB, the Freemasons Foundation, the Royal Australian and New Zealand
College of Ophthalmologists (SA) and the Sight for All Foundation. In 2011 the My Eye Health
Program visited 15 towns across rural South Australia, educating more than 4,200 people across
significant areas of the State at more than 150 presentations about eye health, common causes of
vision loss, what help is available and tips for healthy eyes.
A recent partnering with the Adelaide Football Club (AFC) has also assisted the program to deliver
eye health messages to Aboriginal communities in South Australia, particularly the Anangu,
Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. As a result of this partnership, the MEHP was
invited to join the Aboriginal Health Council of SA (AHCSA) on their regular Eye Team visit to the
Lands. This on-going collaboration is a positive step towards improving eye health amongst the
Aboriginal communities in SA.
This is not the only beneficial link the RSB has forged with other organisations in 2011. The RSB
and Blind Sports SA have come together, enabling a Sports Development Officer to join the RSB
Recreation and Leisure team. The partnership has been beneficial in many ways, allowing the
RSB to work with South Australian schools to introduce sporting activities such as tandem cycling
and blind cricket to students who are blind or vision impaired – students who may require the
assistance of the RSB in the future.
The RSB remains committed to developing future business leaders of South Australia with the
in-business Young Business Leaders Program. Last year’s Program saw another fantastic,
enthusiastic group of young people participate with their mentors and employers. Almost $160,000
was raised, assisting the continued delivery of the RSB’s quality services and exemplifying the
RSB’s motto, “The Vision to make a Difference”.
As we focus on the future, thanks go to the RSB management and staff for their continued hard
work, energy, commitment and dedication. Every day, RSB management and staff ensure that
RSB services are delivered at the highest standard, helping to improve the lives of so many
South Australians.
RSB volunteers also deserve our great gratitude for contributing their time to ensure the consistent
delivery of essential RSB services. Without their support, the provision of many of the RSB’s
services would not be possible. Their invaluable efforts in all areas of the RSB are the equivalent
of more than 70 full-time employees, which in monetary terms would equate to in excess of $2.6
million in salaries.
Due to the sustained growth in Volunteer Services, the volunteer department will expand in 2012,
with dedicated Volunteer Support Officers to be located at the Smithfield and Noarlunga offices in
addition to the city staff, providing more effective local support. The RSB looks forward to this
exciting new era of Volunteer Services.
Special thanks must be bestowed upon our benefactors, donors and sponsors. The new site at
Noarlunga is an example of what has been made possible thanks to the generosity of Mr Leo
Schleim, one of the RSB’s benefactors who left a substantial bequest for this purpose. Essential
funds were also provided by The South Australian Department for Families and Communities,
Office of Disability and Client Services, Department of Health and Ageing, Department of Families,
Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, as well as Department of Education,
Employment and Workplace Relations – thank you for helping us make a difference.
I would also like to thank and acknowledge the RSB’s Patron, His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin
Scarce, Governor of South Australia, for his on-going support.
John Stokes
President
++Executive Director’s Report
As I begin my Report for 2010/11, I look back on the last financial year with much pride and
great anticipation for the future. As the largest provider of services to now more than
12,000 South Australians who are blind or vision impaired, the future is more than
important to us, it is fundamental.
Our future means the continued provision of adaptive technology, so that students who are vision
impaired may attend university; it means thousands of hours of Orientation and Mobility instruction,
to assist clients to maintain their independence and mobility; it means an improved and enhanced
Child and Youth Services program, providing services to children born with a vision impairment
from birth right through to adulthood; most importantly, it means we are here to provide real
services to real people, allowing them to live independently and improve their quality
of life.
I am a firm believer that to be successful in the future, we also have to focus on today. Through
great endeavor and dedicated effort, the RSB remains true to its commitment in providing the best
possible services for people who are blind or vision impaired. Recently completing our 15th
independent Annual Client Survey of a random selection of clients, the following results were
achieved:



Satisfaction with services, a rating of 97% (15 year average 94%)
Satisfaction with staff and volunteers 98% (15 year average 95%)
Improvement in quality of life 89% (15 year average 83%)
Among the RSB’s other achievements throughout 2010/11, is the secured future of the RSB
Digital Library Service. By purchasing the RSB Digital Library from Audio-Read, an Australian
based company, the RSB has enabled further expansion of our audiobook library – meeting
increased demand as the RSB Digital Library Service continues to grow.
I am also excited to advise that the RSB is currently in the process of expanding its services
provided to children and young people, beginning with a review of the service and the employment
of a Child and Youth Services Coordinator. The Child and Youth Services Coordinator will provide
dedicated support to RSB clients under the age of 18 years, including initial assessments,
establishing Individual Service Plans and ensuring each child is referred to relevant services. To
complement the Child and Youth Services’ expansion, the RSB has recently been acknowledged
by FaHCSIA as a Better Start Funding service provider.
The RSB Guide Dog Service is another expanding area of the RSB, and in just five years, has
trained 41 RSB Guide Dog working teams. To meet increasing demand, another 40 pups are
currently in the puppy education program, bred from our very own RSB Guide Dog Service
Brood Bitches.
To meet best practice breeding, a breeding advisory group made up of specialist veterinarians
provides valuable assistance to produce the finest quality RSB Guide Dogs. Most importantly, the
RSB Guide Dog Service breeding program would not be possible without the support of Guide
Dogs Queensland, Guide Dogs UK, Guide Dogs for the Blind Ireland, Guide Dogs Norway and
Guiding Eyes in New York, USA, whose generous donations have assisted immensely along the
way.
To ensure our breeding program continues to meet demand, the RSB Guide Dog Service is
currently in negotiation with Guide Dogs UK for breeding stock material and Guide Dogs for the
Blind San Rafael for the donation of a Brood Bitch. Guide Dogs for the Blind San Rafael is the
largest guide dog school in the USA, and we look forward to continuing this beneficial relationship.
As an accredited member of the International Guide Dog Federation, the RSB is most grateful for
the support of other guide dog schools around the world, including the Kansai Guide Dog School
in Japan for the gift of three pups, due to arrive in November 2011.
In August, the RSB took part in an inaugural Low Vision Fellowship Program, in conjunction with
the Sight for All Foundation and the South Australian School for Vision Impaired (SASVI).
The RSB welcomed Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Dr Dechen Wangmo and Orthoptist, Abi
Khatinara, from Bhutan.
The Fellowship Program serves to advance education, technical expertise and proficiency of eye
care professionals from developing countries by offering hands-on experience, including vision
assessment, the prescription of magnifiers, occupational therapy and sighted guide training. As a
result of the Program, the RSB has donated a number of magnifiers to assist people who have
experienced vision loss in Bhutan and Dr Wangmo and Khatinara’s experience will provide the
knowledge to develop the first ever Low Vision Centre in Bhutan.
The RSB has always been very active in advocating for the consideration of issues for our clients,
and will continue to represent the rights of South Australians who are blind or vision impaired to
independently participate in our communities and enjoy the benefits of Australian Citizenship on
an equal basis to all other Australians.
My role as Chairman of the Australian Blindness Forum (ABF) and my involvement with the State
Committee for National Disability Services has assisted the RSB to prepare submissions for both
Productivity Commission Reports on Caring for Older Australians (Ageing) and Disability, Care
and Support (NDSS). The RSB has concerns about the impact of both Reports on people who are
blind or vision impaired and believes politicians must be made aware of the issues from a
blindness perspective.
The RSB maintains strong connections to the wider world, to ensure its awareness of current best
practices and to form collaborative links with other likeminded progressive organisations. To assist
in the facilitation of this, I serve as one of two elected Australian delegates to the World Blind
Union (WBU) and I am on the Elderly Blind and Asia Pacific Employment and Empowerment
Committees.
As we focus on the future, the continued provision of services to more than 12,000 South
Australians who are blind or vision impaired is only possible through the dedication of almost 200
RSB staff, which includes more than 70 people with vision impairment and/or other disabilities
employed at the RSB’s Industrial Services division. Also crucial is the input of more than 900
volunteers, stretching from the volunteer board of management, to people that generously give
their time to help deliver essential services to RSB clients, and through to the wider community of
generous supporters and donors. To all of these people, I extend my heartfelt thanks.
I would also like to formally acknowledge the on-going support of many State and Federal
Government funding bodies, including:
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing
Commonwealth Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
South Australian Department for Families and Communities
Commonwealth Department for Employment, Education and Workplace Relations.
With your support, we look forward to continuing our vision to make a difference in 2012 and
beyond.
Andrew Daly
Executive Director
++Community Services
RSB Community Services provides vision rehabilitation services to people throughout
South Australia. The RSB delivers this vital outreach service into the homes and local
communities of RSB clients. RSB’s continuing goal is to provide training and support to clients,
which allows them to remain at home, maintain independence and participate fully in the
community.
Among the 1,564 referrals received for the RSB outreach services in 2010/11, more than 40,000
hours were spent providing Counselling, Independent Living Training, Orientation and Mobility
Training and Recreation and Leisure Services.
Community Outreach
To improve the continuum of care for RSB clients between the medical and rehabilitation sectors,
the Ophthalmic Registrar Program was held for the third time with great response.
Partnerships continue to expand with other blindness agencies and service providers, including
the Macular Degeneration Foundation (MDF). Early in the year, the RSB provided training to 10
MDF staff, to assist in the flow of services from one organization to another. RSB staff participated
in the MDF Telelink Program, a national program aimed at providing people with information and
peer support to assist those living with MD in major cities and regional areas.
Regional Offices
Staff at the RSB’s five regional offices – Mt Gambier, Victor Harbor, Port Augusta, Noarlunga and
Smithfield – continue to promote RSB services through expos and community education programs.
All RSB services are available through this regional network, with RSB staff also regularly visiting
the Riverland, Yorke Peninsula and the West Coast.
Adaptive Technology is more readily available for clients than ever, expanding to enable
accessibility at all regional offices, including the demonstration of Dolphin Guide computer
software and the latest in electronic magnifiers. The RSB Smithfield office continues to grow and
expand the range of activities available to clients since its opening in 2010. This year, a successful
Microwave Cooking Course was introduced, with the emphasis on being healthy and cooking for
one.
To ensure access of RSB services continues to reach South Australians from different cultural
backgrounds, a thorough review of CALD services is now underway. Services are provided in
culturally sensitive ways and information is provided in a wide range of languages.
Mobility Services
With more than 300 referrals per year, the continued expansion of services that help people who
are blind or vision impaired to travel independently and safely has seen the implementation of a
permanent Orientation and Mobility Instructor at Noarlunga. A specialist Orientation and Mobility
Instructor has also been recruited from the USA and is now based in the Adelaide office.
Invaluable training for South Australia’s public transport staff continued in 2010/11, with eight
training sessions provided for TransAdelaide tram drivers.
From training to technology, the Mobility Services team aims to achieve best practice. In 2010, a
comprehensive evaluation was undertaken of Trekker Breeze GPS technology, determining that it
is particularly useful to clients when travelling in unfamiliar areas.
Mobility Services will continue to expand the range of technology available to RSB clients,
including ILA mini canes, slimline graphite folding canes, I-glasses and hand and head LED
torches.
Recreation and Leisure
The RSB continues to work with the Blind Welfare Association (BWA) to develop the RSB
Recreation and Leisure Service, which is generously assisted by a grant of $60,000 from the SA
Office of Sport and Recreation, to be used over two years.
A significant expansion of the service in 2010/11 has seen the employment of a third RSB
Recreation and Leisure Officer to manage the eastern and western suburbs. More than 1,200
Recreation and Leisure participants now have access to 108 groups, a 14.8 per cent increase on
the last financial year. Service hours have also increased to 29,000, a 73 per cent increase.
Strong volunteer assistance assists with the provision of this service.
In 2011, a partnership was formed with Blind Sports SA, which saw the Sports Development
Officer join the RSB Recreation and Leisure team. This partnership has allowed the RSB to work
with South Australian schools to introduce activities such as tandem cycling and blind cricket to
students who are blind or vision impaired. For school leavers, a transition day was held to provide
information on RSB Recreation and Leisure activities.
Annual community event involvement continues to grow and provides an excellent goal for
participants who are involved with some of the regular Recreation and Leisure groups such as
walking, tandem cycling and golf. In 2010/11, 11 tandem cycling teams participated in the Mutual
Community Challenge of the Tour Down Under. The 2011 City-Bay saw 22 clients participating in
the 6km and 12 km distances, and the National Blind Golf Championships were held in May 2011.
++Focus for the Future
To ensure RSB Community Services continues to meet client demand and expectation, a
number of things are in place as we focus on the future.
For clients in the South, a new office in Noarlunga is in planning stages. The RSB will also
continue to expand the ability to provide Braille training and access to adaptive technology training
in regional areas.
In partnership with the Lions Visual Independence Foundation, an evaluation of Kapten GPS
technology will take place, with the aim to increase client independence, with this
wayfinding technology.
To improve our knowledge on Neurological Vision Loss, the RSB is working towards international
collaboration in this complex area.
Exciting plans are also in place for theatre lovers, with the expansion of the Audio Described
Theatre Service. For many years this service has provided the opportunity for people who are
blind or vision impaired to experience the theatre via audio description. Now, in partnership with
the Disability Access Transition Team, the current service will extend to provide audio description
of SA Festival events, dance and smaller productions.
Margaret Brown
Manager,
Community Services
++Low Vision Service
The RSB’s Low Vision Services at Knapman House delivers vital support and training
services to RSB clients, across many crucial areas.
Adaptive Technology Centre (ATC)
The Adaptive Technology Centre (ATC) is at the forefront of adaptive technology services
providing the largest range of equipment in the southern hemisphere. Clients are able to
undertake training, view demonstrations and trial the latest technology from around the world.
TechFest 2011, the ATC’s annual technology expo, was a great success, hosting the major
suppliers of adaptive technology at RSB’s Knapman House. For the first time, TechFest 2011
introduced ‘Come and Try’ workshops which proved to be extremely popular, with many at
capacity attendance. The 2012 TechFest will take place 23-24 May.
Research into new products is continually undertaken and, where possible, added to the already
large range available. Additions in 2010/11 have included the ClearReader+, the Sara CE, the
PEARL and high definition models of existing electronic magnifiers.
The RSB would like to thank the suppliers of the equipment displayed in the ATC for their
continued support.
Employment Services
RSB Employment Services continues to provide a successful employment program, creating new
opportunities for clients and increasing placement numbers from the previous year. With over 150
work placements in 2010/2011, it is one of the most successful employment services agency in
Australia to people who are blind or vision impaired.
RSB Employment Consultants continue to successfully assist clients to retain their current
employment under the Jobs In Jeopardy scheme. The program aims to help people at risk of
losing their jobs, due to sudden or declining
vision loss.
New training and qualification courses are now available to clients, thanks to the successful tender
of two Productivity Places Program (PPP) contracts. The PPP contracts provide opportunity for
RSB clients to achieve qualifications in Certificate III in Retail, Office Administration and
Communications, which, without funding, may have been out of clients’ financial reach. Together
with job readiness coaching from RSB consultants, some of these clients have successfully been
placed in paid employment upon completion of training.
The RSB School Leavers Program continues to grow, with 18 new students joining in 2010/11.
Additionally, a student work experience pilot program in conjunction with FACHSIA and initiated by
the Australian Blindness Forum, (ABF) has been conducted.
Whilst the RSB’s Job Services Australia (JSA) contract came to a close in 2011, all participating
clients were transferred to the Disability Employment Services (DES) program, with no disruption
to RSB services.
The RSB acknowledges the invaluable assistance and funding provided by the Australian
Government Department of Employment, Education and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) for the
Disability Employment Services program.
Low Vision Centre
Receiving more than 1,000 referrals annually from eye care professionals throughout South
Australia, the Low Vision Centre (LVC) provides services to people who have been newly
diagnosed with an eye condition and have recently experienced vision loss.
The primary service offered at the LVC is the clinic, which is run three days a week. A counsellor,
optometrist and ophthalmologist are all involved in clinic sessions, to provide a vision assessment
and general information about a client’s eye condition.
The LVC stocks the largest range of magnifiers and talking products in Australia and the public are
welcome to visit during business hours at 230 Pirie Street, Adelaide to examine and purchase the
products on display and talk to LVC staff. These products can also be purchased from RSB’s
online shop.
Regular LVC Vision Loss Family Support Sessions enable people who may otherwise feel isolated
by their vision impairment to meet other people who are experiencing similar circumstances and
learn more about their eye condition. Family members are also invited to attend, to further
understand how vision impairment can affect people in everyday life and about how best to assist
their loved one.
The RSB is grateful to the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing for its
continued funding support of the Low Vision Centre.
Volunteer Services
Without the support and generous time given by volunteers, the provision of many of RSB’s
services would not be possible. Their invaluable efforts across all areas of the RSB are the
equivalent of more than 70 full-time employees, which in monetary terms would equate to in
excess of $2.6 million in salaries.
From providing transport to clients, assisting the RSB Guide Dog Service in raising, housing and
training future RSB Guide Dogs, assisting with the coordination of recreation and leisure group
activities, to simply enjoying a cup of tea and a chat with socially isolated clients, RSB volunteers
are essential in ensuring clients can enjoy every day activities that many people may take
for granted.
The RSB is most grateful to all volunteers dedicated to giving their time to assist South Australians
who are blind or vision impaired.
++Focus for the Future
Looking forward there are some exciting new developments within Low Vision Services.
Firstly RSB is expanding its services provided to children and young people, starting with the
recent employment of a Child and Youth Services Coordinator, providing dedicated support to
clients under the age of 18 years. In addition to completing initial assessments and establishing
Individual Service Plans, the Coordinator will ensure the child is referred to relevant support
services within the RSB.
Another focus is the expansion of the Adaptive Technology department by further growth in its
supplier base. Discussions have commenced with new European companies, ensuring that the
RSB remains at the forefront of new adaptive technology.
Finally, due to the sustained growth in Volunteer Services the volunteer department will expand in
2012, with dedicated Volunteer Support Officers to be located at the Smithfield and Noarlunga
offices in addition to city staff, providing more effective local support. The RSB looks forward to
this exciting new era of volunteer services.
Sandra Wilhelm
Manager,
Low Vision Services
++RSB Guide Dog Service
The RSB Guide Dog Service is committed to the goal of providing the highest quality
trained and healthy RSB Guide Dogs to clients who wish to use an RSB Guide Dog as their
preferred mobility aid.
Already in its fifth year, the RSB is proud to have been able to provide 41 clients with an RSB
Guide Dog. Demand continues to increase with 40 puppies on the puppy education program, bred
from our very own RSB Guide Dog Service Brood Bitches.
To support on-going demand and meet best practice breeding for RSB Guide Dogs, the RSB
Guide Dog Service is currently in negotiation with Guide Dogs UK for breeding stock material and
Guide Dogs for the Blind San Rafael for the donation of a Brood Bitch. We are also excited to
welcome the gift of three pups from the Kansai Guide Dog School in Japan, due to arrive in
Australia in November 2011.
A breeding advisory group made up of specialist veterinarians continues to provides valuable
assistance to produce the finest quality dogs – an achievement underlined by the eight trained
RSB Guide Dogs that were matched to RSB clients in May 2012.
The fourth K94U2C camp, in conjunction with CanDo4Kids, was a success with four young people
enjoying the experience of working with an RSB Guide Dog. The camp enables young people to
experience using an RSB Guide Dog, and provides information that will help them decide whether
to consider an RSB Guide Dog as their preferred mobility aid.
Recent renovations have expanded the space available to the RSB Guide Dog Service, assisting
with optimal efficiency. The RSB Guide Dog Service also welcomes two new staff members,
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, Sam Goulden and Puppy Education Supervisor, Daisy Piccoli.
Sam joins the RSB Guide Dog Service after training as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor in the
United Kingdom, and formerly working for the New Zealand Foundation for the Blind Guide Dog
Service. Daisy will work closely with Puppy Education Supervisor, Celeste, to build and develop
Puppy Education at the RSB Guide Dog Service.
RSB Cadet Guide Dog Mobility Instructors, Bree Muller and David Bowman have each completed
their Diploma in Guide Dog Mobility after three years of intensive training. Governed by the
International Guide Dog Federation (IDGF) the training is made up of many components including
dog care and welfare, breeding, orientation and mobility, the structure and function of the human
eye and ear, as well as practical elements of assessing, matching and training dogs and clients.
The RSB Guide Dog Service continues to provide a public face for the RSB, participating in public
relations and fundraising activities that help to raise awareness for the RSB. Prominent public
visibility of the dogs through the puppy educator program also assists to draw volunteers to the
organisation.
As an accredited member of the International Federation of Guide Dog Schools, we would like to
acknowledge the ongoing support of other guide dog schools worldwide, including Guide Dogs UK,
Seeing Eye USA, Guide Dogs for the Blind US, Guiding Eyes USA, Guide Dogs Norge AS
(Norway) and Guide Dogs Queensland.
Importantly, the RSB Guide Dog Service would not be the world class service it is today without
the dedicated and crucial support of RSB Puppy Educators, Bed and Breakfast Boarders,
Emergency Boarders and Brood Bitch Holders, as well as veterinarians and valued sponsors,
including Royal Canin, PETstock, Novartis and IDEXX pathology services.
A special thank you to our passionate and dedicated vets, who include Dr Mark Reeve (Tea Tree
Gully Veterinary Hospital), Dr Chris Girling (Noahs Crossing Veterinary Clinic), Dr Andrew Carter
(Magill Veterinary Clinic), Dr Angus Brown (Stephen Terrace Veterinary Clinic), Dr Alana
Rosenblatt (Adelaide University Vet Sciences, Roseworthy) and Dr Tony Read (Veterinary
Ophthalmic Services, Plympton).
++Focus for the Future
Moving in to the future, the RSB Guide Dog Service is aiming to maximise puppy education
potential by creating a learning room and outside dog run area.
It will also be conducting research into dog training such as a longitudinal study with the University
of Adelaide on dog distraction.
In addition the RSB Guide Dog Service will look at how best to meet client need, providing the
best quality RSB Guide Dogs, training and support, now and well into the future.
Chris Muldoon
Manager,
RSB Guide Dog Service
++RSB Industrial Services
Another busy and successful year enjoyed by RSB Industrial Services stands as a credit to
the workforce at the RSB Gilles Plains factory.
With a turnover of approximately $1.2 million, RSB Industrial Services remains viable and
competitive in a tough business climate, having established a strong reputation for quality and
efficient delivery of packaging and assembly solutions.
An important cornerstone in RSB operations, RSB Industrial Services provides valuable and
meaningful employment for South Australians who are blind or vision impaired. The Gilles Plains
facility has 70 available places for workers, and staffing levels are always at a minimum of 90 per
cent capacity.
Flexibility and adaptability of work practices has enabled RSB Industrial Services to embrace
diverse orders from customers. This extends from bag and carton packaging and sealing,
component assembly and packaging, rigid food packaging in snap-lid or hinged PVC containers,
point of sale display construction, packaging with folded and heat-seal blisters, shrink film
wrapping, die cutting, thermoforming and pressure formed products, diverse assembly and
packaging services.
In 2010/11 the RSB sales team attracted new customers, including GM Holden, Nova Concepts,
Environmental Water Services, Keysun Laboratories, the Sarstedt medical research and supply
group and Coopers Brewery.
There continues to be steady growth in the plastics moulding section, with the capacity to operate
moulding machines and high-speed Scope pressure forming machines that allow large-scale
production from 2,000 to 100,000 moulded plastic parts.
RSB Industrial Services achieve all tasks with safety and quality as a prime consideration,
retaining the highest levels of accreditation in 2010/11 with ISO 9000 Quality Assurance and
HACCP (Hazardous Analysis Critical Control Points) Certification.
RSB Industrial Services continues to hone its specialist role and has maximised the potential of
staff capabilities. Many companies have removed much of their manual labour force, especially to
fulfil small-scale orders and short production runs. As a result, to still retain these jobs, their most
profitable course of action is to outsource specialised packaging requirements – and this is where
RSB Industrial Services capably fills a significant gap in the market.
A highlight of 2010/11 was the upgrade of the Packaging and Assembly area, with the inclusion of
a temperature-controlled clean room. The temperature controlled clean room provides food grade
and other packaging solutions for new and existing customers. The upgrade allows RSB Industrial
Services to package products in a dust free, temperature controlled environment that is ideal for
clean packing. Robern Menz and Qantas are just two leading organisations that have product
packed in the clean room.
RSB Industrial Services management staff attended the National Disability Service/Australian
Disability Enterprises State Government Expo in Brisbane, where they were able to network with
other Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs), learn about each other’s respective services and
examine fresh opportunities to share work orders.
In comparison with other ADEs, RSB Industrial Services stands strong as a one-stop shop for its
clients, capable of assembling, fitting and finishing special job requirements. Delivered at best
practice standards, RSB Industrial Services enjoys long term business relationships with a large
number of its customers. This long term retained business enables RSB Industrial Services to
continue providing job security to employees who are blind or vision impaired, who rely on the
RSB for gainful employment, networking with peers and a sense of belonging.
On a personal note, the RSB fare welled one of its longest servicing Industrial Services staff in
September 2011, Renaldo Totani. After 44 years of employment with RSB Industrial Services
Renaldo retired and we would like to acknowledge his commitment, valued service and friendship.
As the Manager of Industrial Services, I would like to express my gratitude to the entire Industrial
Services team and I look forward to 2011/12 being another successful and productive year.
++Focus for the Future
Looking towards the future, RSB Industrial Services has a multi-prong approach which
offers customers both a specialised service, as well as a one stop shop service that can
meet the changing needs of their marketplaces.
The ability to customise products and undertake small runs, all delivered at competitive prices,
enables RSB Industrial Services to meet a burgeoning section of the market-Australia wide.
Further opportunities are also now on offer with the addition of the clean room in 2011, providing
the ability to package food-grade and other products in a dust free, temperature controlled
environment conducive to clean packing. Customers such as Sarstedt, Qantas, Robern Menz,
Perryman’s Bakery and Global Trading have already taken advantage of this high quality service.
RSB Industrial Services remains committed to providing meaningful job opportunities, training and
support to 70 people who are blind and vision impaired. And for RSB Industrial Service customers,
they achieve quality service and products at competitive pricing, while supporting the RSB to
improve the lives of South Australians who are blind or vision impaired.
The future looks bright for RSB Industrial Services, its current and future customers.
Mark Burleigh
Manager,
Industrial Services
++Marketing and Fundraising
An innovative media strategy, Ambassador Team, eye health initiative and a new mix of
RSB events gave the RSB Marketing and Fundraising team a lot to focus on in 2010/11!
Before we knew it, 2011 was here and with it, a new name for RSB’s magazine – RSB focus. As
part of the RSB’s new media strategy, the new name was chosen to closely reflect the RSB’s
focus on our clients and the services we provide, as well as our staff, volunteers and donors.
As part of the new strategy, a focus on social media was introduced, including an RSB Facebook
Page (www.facebook.com/RSBfocus) and YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/RSBfocus).
A first for the RSB, the Facebook page provides an online meeting place for RSB clients,
volunteers, friends and supporters to get in touch and stay up to date with events, news
and more.
Social media has also provided a platform for the RSB to stay in touch with our new Ambassador
Team!
RSB Ambassador Team
Sharing the RSB’s vision to make a difference, we welcomed six RSB Ambassadors on board in
2011; Bernie Vince and Taylor Walker from the Adelaide Crows, Erin Bell from the Adelaide
Thunderbirds and Australian Netball Diamonds, Kate Collins from Channel 9, Carole Whitelock
from ABC 891 radio and 2011 Dark to Light Walk Client Ambassador, Rachael Leahcar
(Bartholomew).
The RSB Ambassadors have had a busy year promoting, volunteering and educating the
community about the RSB at events and more.
In April, Adelaide Football Club midfielder, Bernie Vince became a volunteer Puppy Educator,
taking home RSB Guide Dog pup, Buddy, on International Guide Dog Day.
“I think it will be rewarding to watch Buddy grow up, then see him head out with someone who is
blind or vision impaired and make a real difference to their life,” said Bernie.
As respected leaders in their fields, the support of the RSB Ambassadors delivers invaluable
messages to the wider community about the important work that the RSB undertakes. Their
attendance at RSB events also assists us to generate new interest and reach new audiences.
A special thank you to our RSB Ambassadors for their dedication and support in 2011!
++Introducing the RSB Ambassador Team!
Kate Collins – Channel 9
“It’s amazing how much we take our sight for granted, and if it’s taken away, how much help we
need to live a normal life. Become an RSB Puppy Educator or consider sponsoring an RSB Guide
Dog pup. It’s a practical and fun way to help people who are blind or vision impaired.”
Bernie Vince – Adelaide Football Club
“I think it would be pretty disappointing if you had something wrong with your eyesight. You can’t
do much without a guide dog, so I think the RSB is a good charity to get involved in and volunteer
your time with.”
Taylor Walker – Adelaide Football Club
“I love dogs, but I think an RSB Guide Dog is extra special because it can help someone who is
blind or vision impaired in our community.”
Erin Bell – Adelaide Thunderbirds and Australian Netball Diamonds
“I became an RSB Ambassador due to my own personal experience with vision impairment. I have
worn glasses/contact lenses since I was 10 years old and would not have been able to pursue my
sporting dreams without vision correction.”
Carole Whitelock – ABC 891 Afternoons
“I have a relative with Macular Degeneration who has been helped in many ways by the RSB –
and I love the RSB Guide Dogs, they are real life heroes!”
RSB Events
In March, the RSB was ready to race at the annual official 2011 Clipsal 500 Luncheon. The only
charity luncheon where participants can get up close and personal with the elite Holden and Ford
V8 Supercar drivers – the event was a huge success!
In April, the RSB celebrated our four-legged friends – the RSB Guide Dogs – on International
Guide Dog Day in Rundle Mall. International Guide Dog Day provides a chance for the public to
ask questions and find out more about the RSB Guide Dogs. It’s also an opportunity to
acknowledge the mobility and independence a guide dog can bring to people who are blind or
vision impaired around the world.
In June, the inaugural Charlie’s Day event took place - a fundraiser held in honour of Charlie, an
RSB Guide Dog who has recently started training. The aim was to raise $25,000 to cover the cost
of training Charlie, a target which we achieved above and beyond thanks to generous donors,
supporters and sponsors. These events provide an opportunity to show how and why the RSB
Guide Dogs can make an enormous difference to the life of someone who is blind or vision
impaired.
Other events such as the Royal Adelaide Show or Dark to Light Walk showcase different elements
of RSB services, including white canes – an important mobility tool. In 2010, Ross Simpson was
the Client Ambassador for the Dark to Light Walk and in 2011, Rachael Leahcar (Bartholomew)
took on the role. As a 17 year old, the white cane enables Rachael to study Year 12 at Brighton
Secondary School and continue her professional singing career.
“The RSB provided me with Orientation and Mobility training, including how to use my white cane.
This gave me the confidence to catch buses, go shopping, walk home from school and other dayto-day things that teenagers like to do!” Rachael Leahcar, 17, 2011 Dark to Light Walk Client
Ambassador.
Student Ambassador Program
Young people played a big part in the RSB’s Marketing and Fundraising strategy for 2010/11, with
the official launch of the Student Ambassador Program.
As the name suggests, the program invites students from primary school to university to get
involved with RSB fundraising, awareness and being active in their communities, as Student
Ambassadors for the RSB.
A number of students have already completed the program, which has been mutually beneficial for
both the RSB and the students.
Young Business Leaders SA
An initiative of the RSB, the in-business Young Business Leaders Program (YBL) helps young
professionals to develop personally and professionally.
Launched in July 2010, the 2010/11 Program concluded on 1 July 2011 with a Presentation
Ceremony, where the 2011 Young Business Leader of the Year was announced. The title was
won by Tish Naughton of Torrens Finance Brokers, who developed and demonstrated strong
leadership skills throughout the year.
Other award winners were Brad Gascoigne from the University of South Australia (Achievement
Award) and Jeremy Hodgson from the Commonwealth Bank (Encouragement Award). The three
highest fundraisers were Tish Naughton, Kelly Cock of City of Charles Sturt and Sarah Holtmann
of Baker Young Stockbrokers.
Many thanks to the sponsors of the YBL Program for their generous support, including: Australian
Institute of Management, in-business Magazine, FIVEaa, Nova 919, Gold Network and Channel 9.
A special thank you to YBL Patron, The Hon. Mike Rann MP.
++Young Business Leaders SA 2010/2011 Finalists
Shaun Argent
Moore Stephens Adelaide
Kelly Cock
City of Charles Sturt
Danica Earle
Australia Post
John Edwards
Coffey International
Kate Ellison
DMG Radio
Brad Gascoigne
University of South Australia
Dave Gerner
Avante Mapping Solutions
Jeremy Hodgson
Commonwealth Bank
Sarah Holtmann
Baker Young Stockbrokers
Thao Huynh
Australia Post
Lauren Jones
Knight Frank Australia Pty Ltd
Maryanne Mulvihill
Haigh’s Chocolates
Tish Naughton
Torrens Finance Brokers
Leah Patruno
Capgemini Business Service
Jessica Tudor
BHP Billiton
Luke Wignall
Strata Data
Andy Will
Pinnacle on Pirie
++ Focus for the Future
In today’s fast paced society, social networking has become one of the best ways to
interact with people who share a common interest.
As we focus on the future, the RSB endeavours to ‘spread the word’ – reach more people and
continue to make a difference by targeting new online markets that have previously been out of
reach. You will also notice many changes to the RSB website, from new ways to donate, to a
much easier registration process for your favourite events. We can’t wait!
The vision to make a difference is something we stand strongly for at the RSB, and we invite you
to share this vision with us into the future. You can help South Australians who are blind or vision
impaired by attending RSB events, buying an RSB lottery ticket, sponsoring an RSB Guide Dog,
volunteering, becoming an RSB Student Ambassador, donating goods or services or even leaving
a bequest. With your help, our future opportunities are endless!
For more information, please visit www.rsb.org.au or donate at 1800 644 577. You can also join
our social community at www.facebook.com/RSBfocus.
Diana Swanson
Manager,
Marketing and Fundraising
++My Eye Health Program
The My Eye Health Program (MEHP) is a community education program based around the
issues of eye health, intervention and rehabilitation.
An initiative of four of South Australia’s leading organisations, the RSB, the Freemasons
Foundation, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (South Australia
Branch) and the Sight for All Foundation, the MEHP aims to encourage individuals to be proactive
in managing their eye health.
Primarily based on a health and education model, eye health awareness presentations are held
around South Australia for the following audiences:
Allied Health Staff (Physiotherapists, Occupational therapists, Podiatrists, Nurses, Aged Care Staff,
Pharmacists)
Aged Care Staff
High School Students
General Community
In 2010/11, the MEHP team visited 15 towns across rural South Australia, covering significant
areas of the State, including Port Pirie, Ardrossan, Port Lincoln and Millicent. The team also visited
Darwin to bring the message to audiences in the Northern Territory.
The recent partnering with the Adelaide Football Club (AFC) has assisted the program to deliver
eye health messages to Aboriginal communities in South Australia, particularly the Anangu,
Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands.
As a result of this partnership, the MEHP was invited to join the Aboriginal Health Council of SA
(AHCSA) on a regular Eye Team visit to the Lands during May. Time was spent in the APY Lands
learning about Aboriginal culture and how the eye health message should be delivered to these
communities.
The MEHP also had the opportunity to present to football players from the APY Lands and
Maralinga during the AFL Indigenous Cup round as well as information being featured on the big
screen during the Crows match that round.
In July, the MEHP hosted a seminar on Age-related Macular Degeneration. This was a very
successful event with 30 allied health professionals attending. Held at RSB’s Knapman House, the
location allowed the Low Vision and Adaptive Technology Centres to be showcased. Dr Jolly
Gilhotra, Ophthalmologist, was the key speaker and the RSB’s Low Vision Centre staff and
Occupational Therapists complemented this with practical sessions.
The RSB, the Freemasons Foundation, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of
Ophthalmologists (South Australia Branch) and the Sight for All Foundation, would like to thank
His Excellency, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AO CSC RANR, the Governor of South Australia and
His Honour, Tom Pauling AC QC, Administrator of the Northern Territory for their involvement as
Patrons of the My Eye Health Program.
++Focus for the Future
In 2012 the MEHP will continue to have a presence in rural SA with its community awareness
presentations. As well as implementing regular seminars for allied health professionals, Aboriginal
Eye Health will remain in focus with further activities planned with our partners.
Diana Swanson
Manager,
Marketing and Fundraising
++Digital Library & Print Alternatives Service
The Digital Library & Print Alternatives Services is a growing division, providing a diverse array
of media and information services to RSB clients and corporations that hope to better cater for
South Australians who are blind or vision impaired.
Digital Library Service
The RSB has secured the future of the Digital Library Service by purchasing the RSB Digital
Library from Audio-Read, an Australian based company.
Audio-Read will initially support the Service for five years, until 2015, enabling further expansion of
the RSB’s audiobook library.
In 2010/11, our ever popular Digital Library Service grew to 600 clients. As a result, there has
been a significant increase in the number of library books available to cater for the many and
varied interests of RSB’s clients.
The RSB currently has more than 6,000 audiobooks available for Digital Library Service clients,
with a further 8,000 titles to be purchased over the next four years. This includes a broad selection
of titles, including contemporary and classic materials and resources in languages other than
English.
There are now 15 community libraries involved in the Digital Library Service and further expansion
is expected in the coming year.
Print Alternatives
In 2010/11, more than 2,000 South Australians who are blind or vision impaired were provided
with individual transcription services in their format of choice. This free service is vital to ensure
that people who are blind or vision impaired maintain independence in their daily lives.
Transcription Services manages requests for nearly 15,000 pages of Braille and tactile diagrams,
nearly one million large print pages, more than 1,425 pages of E-text issued on CD and almost
7,000 hours of audio requests for transcriptions of newsletters, brochures, manuals, reports and
more annually.
Regular services also include the production of large print crosswords, a weekly television guide
(CD, email and large print) and large print diaries.
Accessible Information Service
Providing crucial accessible information services to many external organisations such as tertiary
education sectors and service providers, as well as all levels of government, the Accessible
Information Service offers advice and transcription services to ensure the delivery of information.
In 2010/11, organisations requesting these services included the Council of the Ageing,
Department of Broadband Communications and the Digital Economy, Fox Creek Wines, Housing
SA, Local Government Offices, TAFE and universities across South Australia.
Talking Newspaper Service
For the RSB Talking Newspaper Service, more than 300 volunteers provided audio coverage of 24
different local newspapers throughout South Australia. These recordings are issued to more than
800 RSB clients weekly.
++Focus for the Future
The continuing focus for the Digital Library & Print Alternatives Services is to remain at the
forefront of technology, ensuring that the range of services provided by the RSB are the
best possible for South Australians who are blind or vision impaired.
To ensure this, the RSB will liaise with manufacturers and providers to increase the availability of
mainstream digital audio players, and at a lesser cost, as well as enable further expansion of the
Digital Library Service. We also look forward to the ultimate move, taking Talking Newspapers to a
digital medium.
For our future, equally important is the continued education of organisations and the community to
make their information available in accessible formats for people who are blind and vision impaired.
Dennis Moir
Deputy Chief
Executive Officer
++Special Thanks
The RSB is fortunate to receive wonderful support through donations from many
individuals, organisations, Trusts and Foundations.
To our donors and supporters, the RSB thanks you for your generosity. We couldn’t do this
without you.
A special thank you goes to those supporters below:
Adelaide Eye
& Laser Surgery
Bank SA Staff & Charitable Foundation
BMD Brands
CMV Staff Charitable Foundation
Community Benefit SA
Coopers Foundation
Mr C Domaille
Fay Fuller Foundation
Foodland
Fox Creek Wines
IDEXX Laboratories
In-business Magazine
Inner Wheel Club of North East Sunset Inc
IRIS – Office for Recreation and Sport
JMJ Printing
Lightly Salted – Liam West
Lions Club of East Torrens (Crosswords – Print Alt)
Lions Club of Gilles Plains
Mr & Mrs N & R McPherson
Mr & Mrs Palmer
Mr B Gillard
Mr D Cant
Mr G Grivell
Mr I Robertson
Mr K Gramp
Mr M Cooper
Mr R Hazell
Mr R Marin
Mr T Wollaston
Mrs C Van Hattum
Mrs E Stapledon
Mrs M Buxton
Mt Gambier & Districts Club for the Visually Impaired
NAB (National Australia Bank)
PETstock
Port Adelaide
Enfield Council
Rex Airlines
Sentinel Spectrum
Novartis
Sidney Myer
Tony Rogers
We would also like to thank the media for the on-going support of our promotions and services,
namely: FIVEaa, Mix 102.3, NOVA 919, Fresh FM, ABC 891, Channel 9, Channel 7, Network Ten,
in-business Magazine, SA Life Magazine, The Advertiser, Messenger Community News
and InDaily.
A special mention goes to McClusky and Co for their professional public relations assistance and
to South Australian regional radio stations and newspapers for their continued coverage of the My
Eye Health Program.
++Fundraising Auxiliaries
We sincerely thank all RSB volunteers who play a vital role within the RSB and are
fundamental to our ability to provide quality services to our clients. Their commitment and
dedication in raising funds for people who are blind or vision impaired is extraordinary.
Raising awareness and raising vital funds within their communities through annual Badge Days,
fairs, fashion shows, quiz days, merchandise sales and many other activities is delivered with
tremendous enthusiasm and valuable time.
A special thank you to all volunteer RSB Auxiliary members who have tirelessly fundraised, some
giving their time and commitment for 30 years throughout the Murray Bridge and Gawler region.
++RSB Guide Dog Collection Units
A special thank you to South Australian businesses and organisations that support the RSB Guide
Dog Service 365 days a year with a coin collection unit. The funds contributed and awareness
these units create about the RSB Guide Dog Service are invaluable. Every coin counts towards
the $25,000 needed to breed, raise and train an RSB Guide Dog.
++Bequests
Bequests are wonderful gestures from caring people who have left the RSB a legacy that
impacts well into the future. This generosity enables the RSB to continue to provide and
expand upon its many free services to people who are blind or vision impaired.
With great honour and gratitude, we acknowledge the support from the following Bequests,
Legacies, Estates and Perpetual Trusts during this past financial year:
Elsie Myrtle Adams
Irene Van Amsterdam
P A Anthony
Thelma Ashton
Lina Bartlett
R Beaumont
Aloisia Beyer-Lawrence
Richard William Bland
K Bransden
Rita Burford
Suzanne Beatrice Butterworth
G A Carter
F M Colmer
J E Cooke
Myra Lattin Dodd
V A Edgelow
J Edwards
Colin James Ellis
Jean Olive Forrest
John Gelston
E M Goodyear
Ivan Frank Hampel
Bertrand Thomas Hansberry
Gladys Hitchin
Margaret M Humphrys
Mary Elizabeth Jacobs
Thomas Jardine
Condon Kraehe
S G Lane
Rosemary Laughton
D C McCracken
Pamela McLaren
Vera Jean Maurice
J Melrose
E Miers
Kathleen Moore
Pauline O’Daniel
Ronald Albert Patterson
J N Pedler
L A Pelton
Patricia Mollie Phillips
Kathleen C Putre
Oliver & Stella Raymond
Thelma Rio
D L Ross
A H Schlank
Leo Schleim
Milton Herbert Schlodder
Tecla Mae Shaw
Margaret E Smith
Marilyn Jean Temby
Ernest Robert Tester
Percival James Thomas
Marjorie-Maie Toms
William Leonard Thorn
Hilda Wells
M Whitfeld
Leslie George Woodman
++In Memory
Flowers have traditionally been the means by which people pay their respects to lost loved
ones. However, today many people are choosing a more lasting tribute in the form of a
charitable donation.
With great honour and continued gratitude, we remember those who have assisted the RSB to
continue to make a difference with an In Memory donation.
Mr P Ashman
Miss J Boyd
Mrs M Brealey
Mr R Brojatsch
Mrs H Burnard
Mrs A Cain
Mrs H Cotter
Mrs A Davis
Mrs A Derks
Mr W Deuis
Miss J Dickinson
Mrs E Dorshorst
Mrs D Duffy
Mr B Finn
Mr C Georgiou
Mrs E Gobolos
Mrs J Gray
Mr G Gergory
Ms M Griggs
Mrs J Hayes
Ms A Heathcote
Mrs B Henderson
Mr B Hendry
Mrs D Jacobs
Mr N Jensen
Mr G Jones
Ms S Juster
Miss M Kelly
Mrs N Kipling
Mrs H Kluge
Mrs M Lacey
Mrs M Laslett
Mr N Lazaris
Mrs D Mackereth
Ms G Martin
Mrs B McCall
Ms K McDonald
Mr R Miller
Mr C Morcombe
Mr F Nicholls
Mr B Nicolle
Mrs P Norton
Mrs M Pike
Mr R Praite
Mr R Price
Dr R Renton
Miss M Roberts
Mrs D Schliebs
Mrs S Sears
Mrs J Shearer
Mrs P Skipworth
Mrs B Stanford
Mr A Stephenson
Mrs J Sweetman
Mrs D Swinton
Mrs P Taylor
Mr N Thelning
Mr W Thomson
Mr W Thorn
Mr F Whitehead
Mrs G Wood
Mrs M Wright
Mr H Zeidler
++Treasurer’s Report
The RSB’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the recognition and
measurement requirements of the Australian Accounting Standards which include
Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS) and meet all
other professional reporting requirements in Australia.
Ernst and Young have audited these statements and a full set of accounts including an unqualified
audit report will be tabled at the RSB’s Annual General Meeting or made available on request.
This Treasurer’s Report has been prepared to provide a concise summary of the RSB’s financial
results and to assist readers of the report to better understand the RSB’s financial position.
Operating Results
The underlying deficit from normal operations was $1.17 million compared to $1.52 million for the
previous financial year. After adjustments for changes in the market value of investments and
property, bequests, and other items, our Statement of Comprehensive Income shows a net
income of $2.95 million compared to $3.09 million for the previous financial year.
Net Assets
The Net Assets of the RSB now stand at $37.58 million compared to $34.63 million for the
previous financial year. The RSB is in a sound financial position to meet future service
requirements.
Services
The RSB has continued to invest in existing services and new initiatives including the RSB Digital
Library Service, RSB Guide Dog Service, research into the application of new technologies, the
neurological vision loss project, and increased recreation and leisure activities. Over the last
financial year, the level of core service hours provided to clients has increased by 35,312 to a
record 263,486.
The result reflects the continued planning, close monitoring of costs by the RSB’s management
team, and its commitment to continually investigate ways of improving our services
to clients.
On behalf of the Board I would particularly like to highlight the importance of benefactors,
supporters and the government in maintaining our relatively strong financial position.
The RSB now supports the needs of over 12,000 South Australians who are blind or vision
impaired. The incidence of vision loss in our community will continue to increase in proportion to
the ageing of our population, and therefore it is vital that the RSB continues to attract bequests in
order to fund future increases in demand for services.
Governance
As noted above, the RSB’s financial statements are audited each year. The Finance and Audit
Committee, a sub-committee of the Board of Management (Board), meets monthly to examine the
RSB’s financial position in detail and, as Treasurer, I provide a monthly report of these meetings to
the Board.
The Investment Sub Committee, a sub committee of the Board, meets quarterly to review the
management of the investment portfolio, in order to optimise returns and minimise risk.
Through ongoing strong management practices, the RSB has placed itself in a sound financial
position that will enable it to assist people in South Australia who are blind or vision impaired for
many years to come.
Barry Clarke FIPA
Treasurer
++Offices of the RSB
Corporate Office
Marketing & Fundraising
254 Angas Street,
Adelaide SA 5000
GPO Box 1855,
Adelaide SA 5001
P (08) 8223 6222
F (08) 8223 7836
Donor Toll Free Number:
1800 644 577
Puppy Sponsorship:
(08) 8223 6222
Community Services
254 Angas Street,
Adelaide SA 5000
P (08) 8232 2444
F (08) 8232 2111
Low Vision, Adaptive Technology Centres, Employment Services & Volunteer Services
230 Pirie Street,
Adelaide SA 5000
P (08) 8232 4777
F (08) 8232 4807
Client Toll Free Number: 1800 675 554
RSB Guide Dog Service, Industrial Services & Administration
11 Blacks Road,
Gilles Plains SA 5086
P (08) 8261 4121
F (08) 8266 3310
Noarlunga Office
3rd Floor, Noarlunga House
Noarlunga Centre SA 5168
P (08) 8326 1188
F (08) 8326 6288
Smithfield Office
27 Anderson Walk
Smithfield SA 5114
PO Box 281,
Smithfield SA 5114
P (08) 8254 3011
F (08) 8254 3022
Northern Office
5 Young Street,
Port Augusta SA 5700
PO Box 2126,
Port Augusta SA 5700
P (08) 8641 1980
F (08) 8641 1686
South East Office
Mt Gambier Eye Clinic
Pinehall Avenue,
Mt Gambier SA 5290
PO Box 2739,
Mt Gambier SA 5290
P (08) 8725 1912
F (08) 8725 1707
Victor Harbor Office
South Coast Health Centre
14 Victoria Street,
Victor Harbor SA 5211
PO Box 681,
Victor Harbor SA 5211
P (08) 8552 9774
F (08) 8552 9775
www.rsb.org.au
www.facebook.com/RSBfocus
Available in alternative formats.
It costs in excess of $25,000 to breed, raise and train each RSB Guide Dog to become a life
changing mobility aid. Please donate today. Call 1800 644 577 or visit our website
www.rsb.org.au