UD Trucks has been formally recognised for more than ten years of support to the St John Eye Van, receiving a Priory Vote of Thanks for its contribution to improving access to regional eye health services across Queensland.
The state-of-the-art mobile eye clinic, hauled by a UD Quon prime mover, travels throughout regional Queensland to deliver eye health checks and surgical procedures in communities where specialist care is often limited. The partnership has enabled thousands of people—particularly in disadvantaged and remote areas—to access services that previously required travel to major cities.
The recognition was presented to Philippa Wood, Vice President Marketing and Sales UD Trucks, by Queensland Governor General, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, during a ceremony at Queensland Government House.
Wood said the acknowledgement reflects the collective effort behind the program:
“It’s humbling to see the small part we play in supporting this organisation recognised by those who dedicate so much of their spare time towards supporting community.”
“However, hearing some of the life changing outcomes that have stemmed from the service that the Eye Van provides only reinforces the value that this dedicated team deliver.”
“The real heroes are those working tirelessly in the background to improve the quality of life of those less fortunate than they are.”
Expanding services to more remote communities
The St John Eye Van provides retinal screening and early detection of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and cataracts—diseases disproportionately affecting Indigenous Australians and Torres Strait Islander communities.
According to Dr Andrew Laming, Ophthalmologist, St John Eye Van:
“The St John Eye Van combines ophthalmic care with diabetes management strategies in an integrated outreach initiative aimed at closing both the longevity and eye health gaps for First Nations people.”
“The program has seen significant growth over the past 12 months. New service locations have been established in Rockhampton, Woorabinda, Blackwater, and Cunnamulla, while cataract surgery has resumed in Emerald, with monthly operating sessions.”
A year of impact in remote Queensland
In the 2024–25 financial year, the Eye Van:
- travelled 35,350 km across eight remote sites
- delivered 188 clinic sessions
- treated nearly 936 patients
- administered 500 injections
- completed 75 laser procedures
- and dispensed 450 pairs of glasses.
For UD Trucks Australia, the program demonstrates how industry partnerships can meaningfully support community health outcomes, particularly in areas where heavy vehicle reliability is critical for delivering frontline services.
Volvo Group Australia Pty Ltd, trading as UD Trucks, continues to supply and support the Quon prime mover used to haul the Eye Van across the state.
