Foundation Funding Critical

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing the Hon Nicola Roxon MP with Macular Degeneration Foundation Chief Executive Officer Julie Heraghty

The Macular Degeneration Foundation has welcomed the announcement by Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, the Hon Nicola Roxon MP, of the renewal of the Foundation’s Federal Funding of $457,600 over the next three years. The renewal of the Foundation’s Federal funding supports our education and awareness program across Australia.

The announcement was made at a special event at the Tamworth Services Club where the Vision Van was located for the last leg of the second Australian Tour.

The event was attended by Minister Roxon and Macular Degeneration Foundation Chief Executive Officer Julie Heraghty along with special guests Federal Member for New England Mr Tony Windsor MP, Mayor of Tamworth
Clr James Treloar and members of the Tamworth macular degeneration community.

Representatives from the Vision Van partnership included Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia, Optometrists Association Australia through NSW Optometrists Association and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology.

Minister Roxon praised the work of the Foundation and the importance of education and awareness for early detection and to reduce the incidence and impact of macular degeneration in Australia. The Minister also commended the vital work the Vision Van had carried out during its second Australian tour.

Chief Executive Officer Julie Heraghty expressed her thanks on behalf of the Macular Degeneration Foundation for the Government’s ongoing support:

"I thank you [Minister Roxon] and your Government for your commitment to eye health, your commitment to macular degeneration and most of all your commitment to those with this disease, their families and their carers."