Macular Disease Foundation Australia marked a defining milestone today – 25 years of dedicated work to protect the sight of Australians living with macular disease.
Held at the State Library of NSW, the event opened with the 25th Anniversary Ita Buttrose Oration, delivered by Founding Director Dr Paul Beaumont AM, whose foresight sparked the Foundation’s creation in 2001.
Reflecting on the early days, Dr Beaumont spoke of his drive to improve the lives of people with macular disease. “Medicine is not just about naming diseases. It’s about seeing whole people. It’s about asking why – and then asking what can be done,” he said.
From a time when macular disease was little understood to today’s era of widely available treatments, Dr Beaumont traced the Foundation’s contribution to advocacy, research and patient support. He shared powerful stories, including that of patient and centenarian Norma Tory, an avid reader whose vision was preserved through ongoing care.
“Norma lived not only longer – but better. She lived with dignity, with curiosity, and with light,” he said.
Foundation Patron Ita Buttrose AC OBE responded with a moving tribute to Dr Beaumont’s leadership and compassion, highlighting the deeper meaning behind the Foundation’s work.
“You have always understood that this work is about more than preserving sight. It is about preserving independence and dignity – the simple, profound ability to remain part of the world,” she said.
Ita Buttrose then led a panel discussion with experts across clinical care, research, government and lived experience. The panel discussed how far Australia has come in the treatment of macular disease while acknowledging the challenges still to be addressed.
As the Foundation looks ahead, buoyed by advances in research, growing national awareness and a community united in purpose, the next 25 years hold the promise of even greater breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of macular disease.
As Dr Beaumont observed, “We have come so far in 25 years, but we are not finished. Not even close.”
Posted: 31 March 2026
Celebrating 25 years of impact at Parliament House
Macular Disease Foundation Australia has marked a significant milestone at Parliament House, celebrating 25 years of dedicated work to protect the sight of Australians living with macular disease.