In a landmark speech in Queensland Parliament, Mark Bailey MP, the Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Member for Miller, recognised the valuable contributions of Braille House and its dedicated volunteers.
For the first time in Parliament's history, Bailey MP tabled his speech in "Twin Vision," featuring both print and braille to ensure accessibility for all.
Braille, often seen in tactile bumps on paper, coins, and money, is a cornerstone of touch literacy for Queenslanders with low or no vision. These tactile markers are more than just physical sensations—they empower individuals to lead independent, fulfilling lives.
Mark Bailey MP shared the historical significance of Braille House, which traces its origins to March 1897. During this time, seven women, including Lady Lamington, the wife of the then Queensland Governor, formed the Queensland Braille Writing Association. Their goal was to create braille-based reading materials and provide essential tutoring services to vision impaired individuals.
In 1954, the association established a property in Annerley, which became Braille House. Today, Braille House serves as a hub for touch literacy and learning, employing a team of dedicated individuals who continue to share the joy of reading with adults and children across Australia.
Mark Bailey MP took the opportunity to thank the many volunteers who have supported Braille House through the years, including Richard Barker, General Manager of Braille House, and volunteer Margo, who were both present in the gallery. Their contributions are crucial to the ongoing success of the organisation.
Since its establishment in 1899 with just 54 books, Braille House has expanded its collection to over 16,000 volumes, supporting a growing library community.
In addition to its library services, Braille House produces a variety of braille-based materials for businesses, including business cards, certificates, and menus. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation innovated further by producing Tactile QR Code Indicators for check-in signs to help the community stay safe.
As Mark Bailey MP said, “In September, I had the privilege of joining Braille House for their annual Braille Literacy Challenge, where more than 50 children from across Queensland competed to showcase their braille skills. Braille House also hosted the 101st Dickinson Memorial Literacy Competition in 2022, with a record number of entrants across multiple categories, including short story, poetry, and junior and senior student divisions.”
This year marks the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Queensland Braille Writing Association—a commendable milestone that highlights the organisation’s enduring commitment to supporting Australia’s blind and low-vision communities. As we move into an increasingly digital world, Braille House continues to be a beacon of innovation and inclusion for all.