The former Moruya Vision Australia office created the Eurobodalla vision-impaired support group to help people socialise and share information about their conditions.

Group founder Sharon Holland, of Catalina, has seen it grow from its original half a dozen people to a healthy 15, but the loss of older members recently has prompted a recruitment campaign.

“We would really like to get the word out there,” Miss Holland said.

“It doesn’t matter what eye condition you’ve got, you’re most welcome to come along.”

“We’re just a friendly group that meets to have a meal and a chat.”

The 47-year-old, who lost her sight from Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (or LHON), said the casual nature of the meetings was a major drawcard for the group.

“We’re so informal … that’s why we’ve lasted so long. We’re just friends getting together,” she said.

Elaine Heskett, of Mossy Point, said the group was an ideal way to meet like-minded people.

Guest speakers from Vision Australia and Guide Dogs Australia discuss issues affecting the vision-impaired community and technology updates.

“We have about three to four speakers a year, but it’s usually informal,” Mrs Heskett said.

“Eyes don’t rate a mention most of the time.”

Mrs Heskett, who suffers from anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (or AION), said the most common condition in the group was macular degeneration.

Both women spoke of the struggle of vision-impaired people in the Eurobodalla to access services and support.

“There is no support,” Miss Holland said.

“You can’t just walk into a Vision Australia office here.

“Trying to access information is really difficult.”

Miss Holland said vision-impaired people and their carers from across the shire were warmly invited to their meetings and transport could be arranged.

The group meets monthly at Moruya Bowling and Recreation Club, Shore St, Moruya.

Meetings start at 11am in the dining room.

Phone Sharon Holland on 4472 1390 for details of meetings and more information about the group.