Hundreds of Aboriginal and at-risk children in Tom Price and Paraburdoo are receiving essential hearing care through the Earbus Foundation’s Pilbara Outreach program, which has reached over 300 children in its first year, supported by Channel 7 Telethon Trust and Rio Tinto. In 2025, the program conducted over 1,100 screenings across various communities, leading to a 5.5% reduction in middle ear disease and a 2.1% decrease in hearing loss. Dr. Lara Shur emphasized the importance of early intervention, as untreated hearing issues hinder children’s learning and development. Rio Tinto’s Molly Singline highlighted the program’s role in overcoming healthcare access challenges in remote areas, fostering trust and respect within Indigenous communities.
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