Blind SES volunteer lights the way

When Cedar Creek’s Tim Pouncey began to go blind, his world grew darker – but he learned to see the light in a different way.

Six years later, Tim is paving a road map for people with disability.

Tim was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration – eye disorders which cause vision loss over time.

He is unable to drive, has difficulty with everyday tasks such as cooking and cleaning, and often runs into doorways if he isn’t using his cane.

The diagnosis was a ‘big shock’ for Tim, 21, who was looking forward to becoming a nurse or paramedic.

Although certain dreams were put to rest, Tim transformed his way of living and is now a role model for others.

With the help of Carers Queensland and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Tim is pursuing more passions than ever, such as motorbike riding, kayaking and community service.

‘The diagnosis really changed how I view things and puts life into perspective – if you only have so long to do certain things, you better give everything a shot,’ Tim says.

‘It feels quite good to be able to get out and contribute – I’m normally very limited in what I can do. The NDIS has given me the chance to do things I enjoy as part of the community.’

Photo: Blindness has not prevented Tim Pouncey from enjoying outdoor adventures such as abseiling.

Since age 15, Tim has also been a volunteer with the State Emergency Service (SES). He now teaches cadets as a youth leader with the Logan SES unit and worked on repair operations after the December 2023 storms.

‘The most rewarding part is seeing teenagers helping the community and getting involved in real world situations, like with sandbagging during the last storm season,’ he says.

Tim also spends time running the soundboard at Eagleby’s Brigalow Country Community Club, teaches vision-impaired seniors to use technology, and hosts his YouTube channel Visually Impaired Adventures with Tim. The channel shows how creativity and fun are accessible to those with disability, with videos on topics such as blind golf.

‘For me, nothing’s off limits – you’ve just got to find a suitable way to do the things you want to do,’ he says.

‘Whatever you’re going through may seem tough, but there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.’

Photo at top: Tim Pouncey hosts his YouTube channel Visually Impaired Adventures with Tim.