13/10/2026
80 years of Better Hearing Australia. What an afternoon!
Thank you to everyone who joined our 80th birthday event, The Past, Present and Future of Hearing Loss Support, last Friday, co-hosted with The University of Queensland.
Our lived experience presenters, Jenny, Trevor and Judith, shared poignant stories and funny anecdotes that reminded us of the difference community support can make.
Our consulting audiologist, Ellen Mackenzie, highlighted the need for support “beyond the clinic”, a theme that resonated throughout the afternoon.
UQ’s Nerina Scarinci, Jasmine Foley and Piers Dawes showed how research can improve everyday communication and quality of life, and why people with lived experience must be partners in that work.
John Krajewski from Audeara explored how Auracast can broaden hearing access in public spaces and at home. Questions from the floor reflected strong interest in its potential and the challenges of rollout.
Our panel brought John together with Leanne Emerson, CEO of Audiology Australia, and Rhonda Locke, CEO of Deafness Forum Australia. They tackled questions about audiology registration, Foundational Supports and accessible technology. Many details remain unresolved, but the discussion helped sharpen BHA’s priorities.
Business Manager Casper Schougaard and Board Chair Brett Hooper bookended the afternoon, reflecting on how hearing support has changed over 80 years and where we go next.
Technology and systems have come a long way. Yet the need for practical help, independent information and connection remains. That is why BHA’s work continues.
Thank you to everyone who contributed questions, ideas and conversations. We hope you left with a new insight or perspective, and that these conversations lead to better support for Queenslanders with hearing loss.
We’ll have to do it again sometime!