Hearing Australia’s Kate Atkin knows all too well the challenges of limited hearing, which helps motivate her at work.
“I was born partially deaf, so being able to help people with their hearing is very rewarding,” the community hearing adviser says.
“I’m able to build that rapport with people when they come to me with their hearing loss, because I know what it’s like.
“I understand the frustration of not being able to hear people in social situations or struggling to have a conversation over the phone.”
Kate is part of the nation’s largest provider of government-funded hearing services, Hearing Australia, previously known as Australian Hearing.
“We’re still the same people but we’ve rebranded,” she says.
The specialists at Hearing Australia Geelong provide free* hearing checks for anyone over the age of 18, with further free services for pension or veteran cardholders.
The centre provides full assessments by an audiologist, along with ongoing support and free advice online.
Their Geelong specialists have the expertise to guide clients in a wide range of hearing solutions to rediscover the joy of sound and keep connected with their loved ones.
Hearing Australia has offices across Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula that are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm. To find the closest centre phone 131 797.
Kate will be down on the waterfront offering free* hearing checks for Geelong Seniors Festival on 4, 18, 21 and 24 October.
“I’m looking forward to getting out and about and meeting people in my community,” she says.
*Only 15 minute hearing checks are free. Other services may attract charges/fees or may be subsidised for those eligible under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.
