Celebrating Lynette’s Impact: Restoring Vision in Remote Indigenous Communities

Read Queensland Health's Article on Lynette's sight-saving work through our IRIS Program

June 5, 2025
June 3, 2025

At Vanguard Health, we are proud to highlight the remarkable contributions of Lynette, whose dedication to eye health has profoundly impacted rural and remote Indigenous communities across Australia.

Lynette, a seasoned theatre nurse at the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) since its inception in 2019, brings over 26 years of experience from her tenure at Brisbane Day Surgery, formerly the Queensland Eye Hospital.Her passion for ophthalmology has led her to participate in eye health initiatives both nationally and internationally, including in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Kenya.

Recently, Lynette played a pivotal role in an Indigenous eye clinic in Weipa, operated by Vanguard Health as part of the Indigenous and Remote Eye Health Service (IRIS). This initiative aims to deliver essential eye care and surgeries directly to communities in remote and rural Australia, addressing preventable vision loss caused by cataracts. In April, the Weipa clinic successfully performed 22 cataract surgeries for patients from Aurukun and the Cooktown region.

One patient, an artist, expressed profound gratitude, sharing that the surgery would enable her to continue her creative work, significantly enhancing her independence and quality of life. Such stories underscore the transformative impact of accessible eye care services in these communities.

Lynette's exceptional service was recognized nationally when she was awarded a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2019 Australia Day Honours List. Her commitment to improving eye health exemplifies the values and mission of Vanguard Health.

We extend our deepest appreciation to Lynette for her unwavering dedication and the positive difference she continues to make in the lives of many.

Read more about Lynette's inspiring work on the Metro North Health website: Lynette is helping restore vision in rural and remote Indigenous communities.

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