The Brien Holden Vision Institute (BHVI) and the National Library of Australia have published a new book, The Flying Optometrist, to help introduce good eye health practices to young children and celebrate the work of eye health practitioners, especially those who work in remote regions in Australia.

The book has been written by author Joanne Anderton and is based on the adventures of her dad, flying optometrist Dr Phil Anderton.

‘I really liked hearing Dad’s stories when he came back from these outback visits,’ Joanne said in an interview with Optometry Australia. “Also, I was one of the first to get glasses at school and it was hard being a bit different so I wanted to help kids understand how it is normal and wonderful, and an adventure to wear glasses.”

Professor Brian Layland, BHVI chair, said The Flying Optometrist is an important educational tool that will help raise awareness about vision problems, in particular myopia. “This book will help reach children, parents and teachers living in remote areas of Australia and educate them about eye health issues such as myopia. It also highlights the important role that optometrists can play in safeguarding children’s health and enabling better future life outcomes simply through having better vision.”

The story is about Stephanie, a little girl who lives in a remote part of Australia on a large farm, near a very small town, which relies on the healthcare provided by Australia’s flying doctor and optometry services. Stephanie has broken her only pair of glasses and can’t see well, so she can’t play cricket or play with her friends. She’s one of several people in the town who really need to see the optometrist, but the weather is closing in. Will Dr Phil’s little red plane make it through? Other characters featured in the book are inspired by real life Wanaaring residents, including pub owner Narelle, stockman Reg, plumber Bill and Aboriginal elder Auntie Pat, all of whom have their own eye issues to deal with.

The book highlights the isolation of Australian outback towns and includes informative sections at the end on the Visiting Optometrists Scheme, the BHVI and its Aboriginal Eye Care Programme and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

It is illustrated by Karen Erasmus who based her pictures on Phil’s own photos. The Flying Optometrist can be purchased from book stores or online at Booktopia.