Annette Leishman, Victoria

Annette Leishman clearly values and embraces learning in all forms – formal, informal and everything in between. Annette’s university education led her to becoming a teacher and, more recently a trainer for those who wish to volunteer with Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria.

Her dedication to expanding her knowledge is evident in her passion for topics related to parks and wildlife. In order to lead sensory walks at Westgate Park, she has learnt the history of the park, the flora and fauna of the area, as well as studying the calls of common birds in the park.

Annette was initially a participant in pilot sensory walks Parks Victoria planned with Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria (BSRV). Annette demonstrated such a keen interest in nature and passion for learning and sharing her knowledge with the vision impaired community, she was asked if she’d be interested in leading these walks. She has since become the first legally blind volunteer guide with Parks Victoria.

If awarded this scholarship, Annette wants to continue her learning journey by exploring podcasting, which would all to a blog she already puts together. It would also make her content more accessible to a broader audience, particularly those who are print handicapped.