Queensland audiologist Ms Vi Bui has been nominated as the 2024 Fred Hollows Humanitarian for her volunteer hearing work with homeless people and refugees.
One of only two finalists selected by the judging panel, Bui has worked in healthcare in Queensland and the Northern Rivers of New South Wales for 25 years, the first eight as a nurse before swapping to audiology 17 years ago.
The Fred Hollows Foundation said it had searched Australia for a Humanitarian of the Year, ‘someone who cares for others in a decent, practical and no-nonsense way – just like Fred did.’
“Sumner local, Vi Bui, is a much-loved pillar in her Brisbane community, offering free hearing services to homeless adults and children, refugees, and underserved individuals,” the foundation said.
“Vi’s commitment extends to improving hearing health, enhancing quality of life and fostering a sense of dignity and inclusion.
“In her own time, Vi personally transports people to social gatherings, as she believes in the importance of connection to enhance the quality of someone’s life. She also offers essential care like aural hygiene and hearing aid batteries, serving as a lifeline for many without access to support.”
Bui completed her Master of Audiology at the University of Queensland in 2006 and her Bachelor’s in Nursing at Queensland University of Technology in 2001.
She founded Brighter Ears audiology practice a year ago which operates across six sites in Brisbane and is a member of Independent Audiologists Australia. Audiologists who practice in her clinics are members of Audiology Australia.
The Fred and Humanity Awards celebrate Australians who care for others in a decent, practical and no-nonsense manner like Fred did.
Australians can vote to determine who the foundation will name as the 2024 humanitarian at the awards ceremony on 11 November at The University of Sydney.
Mrs Gabi Hollows, founding director of the foundation and Fred’s wife, said: “Fred believed that Australians had an amazing ability to care for others and help those in need.
“The Fred and Humanity Awards are our way to give back to the community which has kept Fred’s vision alive for over three decades. Congratulations to every nominee for the amazing contributions that you’ve made in your communities.”
The ceremony will also name eight junior ambassadors, grade six students who walk in Fred’s footsteps by showing kindness, compassion and integrity in their everyday lives.
The other finalist is Ms Beryl Paul, 81, from Griffith, NSW who has raised $21,000 in the past three decades for the foundation by knitting and crocheting items and selling them along with $3,000 at a recent tea party.
Her support of the foundation began after a chance meeting with Fred Hollows. “I remember he told me, ‘doing nothing is not an option’. He could inspire anyone to do anything,” she said.
Australians can vote for the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year at hollows.org/au/fredawards-vote before 21 October 2024.
