By Brendan Rees
Marie Allen continually pushes the boundaries of what people think vision impaired can – or can’t – do.
Although having low vision herself she continues to be positive and passionate advocate for others with vision impairment.
She began and supported the Vision Australia Giggles Cooking Group in 2012 which provides a supportive and friendly environment for those at risk of being socially isolated in the community.
“It has great rewards, everyone goes home feeling quite good and happy,” she says.
The Hampton Park resident was “gobsmacked” after taking out the top honour as the 2018 Casey Citizen of the Year during the Casey Australia Day Awards Ceremony held at Bunjil Place on Friday, 26 January.
“It wasn’t expected. My jaw just fell to the floor and I nearly fell off my chair,” she said.
“I got a bit emotional. I’m really, really grateful and I’m very, very humbled. I was humbled to receive the nomination but when I got the actual Casey Citizen of the Year I was like ‘what’.”
“I am proud to be Australian. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my guide dog, my daughter, Mariah, Vision Australia and the community.”
Ms Allen has the support of a chef who helps with the cooking classes, held at Lynbrook Community Centre once a month.
“It’s interacting, it’s empowerment, it’s sharing, it’s getting creative, sharing tips and ideas,” Ms Allen said.The group can attest to her energy and enthusiasm for ‘giving things a go’.
“I’ve found people who really make this group grow are using their positive energy and strategies so we can just keeping flowing.”
She encourages those within the community who may feel isolated to join in activities and find common interests and support with their vision loss and daily living.
“I’m blind, everything is hard to do but it’s achievable and that’s keeps me going.”
“I’m able to use my ability to the max and I get a real buzz out of that.”
The first cooking class will be held next Thursday, 8 February between 11am and 2pm.
“The recipe for this month Zucchini slice gluten free and a delicious crispy mouth-watering Caesar salad,” she said.
When she’s not cooking, Ms Allen loves volunteering at the Hampton Park Uniting Church, particularly at Christmas time where she decorates the hall and cooks in the kitchen.
“There’s a lot of stuff I want to really help the community with. If I can do this anyone can do it.”
