UD Trucks has announced it has been recognised with a vote of thanks for its support of a vital regional health initiative by St John Queensland, the St John Eye Van,
A long-time supporter of the state-of-the-art mobile eye health clinic, UD helps by donating a prime mover which hauls the mobile clinic around Queensland.
The UD Quon prime mover, operates throughout regional Qld providing access to eye health checks and surgical procedures in areas where access to health care can be limited.
The partnership now spans more than a decade and has allowed disadvantaged communities to access services that had previously only been accessible in capital cities.
The recognition was presented toUD’s vice-president of marketing and sales], Philippa Wood by the Queensland Governor General Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young.
“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,” said Wood.
“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 said.
“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,” she added.
UD says that the St John Eye Van is equipped to provide retinal screening which can be used to detect diabetic retinopathy and cataracts, which are conditions that 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,” says Dr Andrew Laming, Ophthalmologist, St John Eye Van.
“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.”
UD says the Eye Van, travelled 35,350 kms across 8 remote sites in the 2024–25 financial year, delivering 188 clinic sessions, treated nearly 936 patients, administered 500 injections, 75 laser procedures, and dispensed 450 pairs of glasses.
