Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight back for Christmas Eve

With thousands expected to attend Channel 9’s Carols By Candlelight on Christmas Eve at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, many also turn on Vision Australia Radio and its simulcast and audio description of the big show.

Vision Australia Radio provides an additional narration track that paints the picture of transitions, movements and gestures, neatly woven between on-stage dialogue. It allows people who are blind, have low vision to enjoy the event with their sighted peers. Vision Australia is also offering unique commentary live to people attending the event.

Vision Australia Radio Network Manager Conrad Browne said it’s the perfect alternative to the broadcast on TV, or to complement it:

“Our audio described Carols by Candlelight special is one of our favourite broadcasts of the year as it makes this Aussie tradition one of the most inclusive and accessible events of the festive season. Regardless of whether you are attending the Carols in person or listening from your home, our audio description service allows everyone to get involved and enjoy the event.

Together with our range of local AM, FM, DAB+ and online streaming services across Australia, the event is accessible to more Australians via the power of radio or the internet than ever before, offering more choice and more access to those who need it.”

The audio described simulcast of the Carols will play across Vision Australia’s national radio network from 8 pm local time on Christmas Eve, with their annual ‘Countdown to Carols’ special from 7 pm. The program will be hosted by Behind the Scenes radio program presenter Chris Thompson and it will feature interviews with Dennis Walter, Lara Nakhle and Carols organisers.

You can search for your local Vision Australia Radio station via www.varadio.org or via asking your smart device to play Vision Australia Radio. If you wish to preregister interest in accessing Vision Australia’s audio description service at this year’s event visit carols.visionaustralia.org/accessibility or call 1300 84 74 66.