IRIS 5.0 has commenced and has been marked by two successful visits to Katherine and a dedicated surgical day at Darwin Private Hospital in collaboration with Associate Professor Kris Rallah-Baker and the Deadly Vision Centre. Additionally, the team achieved a significant milestone during a record-breaking trip to Gove. The June 2025 intensive program was particularly notable, with 37 sight-restoring cataract surgeries performed over just three days. This accomplishment reflects the exceptional coordination and dedication of the entire team, who worked cohesively to deliver high-quality eye care services efficiently and effectively.
GWEN & BARRY
Gwen from Ngukurr is a participant of the IRIS program, and is known to the program through her husband, Barry, who underwent eye surgery on both eyes during IRIS trips in 2023. During the September 2025 trip to Katherine, Gwen was exceptionally please to see familiar faces within the team, which reinforced her trust in the program. Her positive experience was further strengthened by the successful surgery, which restored her vision. Gwen was notably joyful, joking that she might not recognize Barry anymore since his eyesight had been blurry for an extended period. Her recovery highlights the program's impact on improving the quality of life for community members through accessible eye care services, fostering trust and community engagement.
