Ms Martin, 44, a receptionist for the Flagstaff group at Unanderra, has retinitis pigmentosa and rod-cone dystrophy.

She is only able to distinguish between light and dark.

However, with the help of Vision Australia and advances in technology she has been able to overcome some of the hurdles of poor vision.

Through speech output software such as voiceover technologies, she can use a range of apps such as public transport and a camera, as well as general phone use.

"Technology has made a huge difference in my life," Ms Martin said.

"I already use an iPhone and an iPod, and I recently purchased a Mac so I can use the computer at home for writing, making notes and updating my telephone directory. I also use technology to keep in touch with people."

In a first for the Illawarra, Ms Martin receives expert online training from an Adaptive Technology trainer, Irina Bruckner, who is based at a Fairy Meadow centre.

"It is very exciting to be able to access technology training locally," Ms Martin said. "I use VoiceOver and Irina is teaching me how to use the word processing program Pages, as well as basic commands to navigate the computer."

Vision Australia will host a Texpo event on October 17 in Sydney, which is open to the public, people who are blind or have low vision, and industry professionals.

■Details: 1300 847 466, visionaustralia.org or visit 2/135-143 Princes Highway, Fairy Meadow.