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The aim of the Guide Dogs Association of SA.NT is to enhance the quality of life of people with a disability. The Guide Dogs Service relies on corporate/personal donations and sponsorships.

Tonight’s guest speaker, Bob Pamment, was accompanied by his wife Marie and his guide dog Hero. Bob was born with normal vision but at the age of 23 lost his central vision. It was later discovered that this was due to a hereditary condition.

While it was enormously difficult, Bob learnt to manage without his sight and continued to work for his employer, ETSA, in a new role. However,  a change in work locations meant he had to cross major roads and he then needed some assistance with his mobility. He initially used a long cane before receiving his first guide dog. Each of Bob’s four guide dogs have given him independent mobility.

Communication between and owner and their guide dog occurs via the  harness. While in harness a guide dog is working and members of the public can not pat them. A fully trained guide dog costs approximately $25 000 and has a working life of 8-10 years.

Bob is now retired but is still very active as a volunteer for the Guide Dogs Association of SA & NT. Bob is also in training for his 9^th City to Bay event – it will be Hero’s first time.

For more information go to http://www.guidedogs.org.au/

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