WHO declares Australia has eliminated trachoma as a public health problem

An article from PDG Murray Verso, Rotary Club of Williamstown
On 29 April 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) validated Australia for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem, marking a significant milestone in the health of indigenous peoples. Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness, no longer represents a public health problem in this country.
Endtrachoma founder Rob McGuirk, RotaryMelbourne delivering a Washer Trailer to the Warburton Community in Western Australia
Rotarians around Australia have played a significant role in reaching this goal. For the past ten years, Rotary’s EndTrachoma project led by Robert McGuirk (RC Melbourne, Kerry Kornhauser OAM (Brighton North), Murray Verso (Williamstown) and project manager Sandi Fulcher (RC of Changemakers) have worked with district champions around the country on Rotary’s EndTrachoma project. 
 
We have  built partnerships with more than 40 Indigenous, government and non‑government organisations, recognising the cultural and logistical complexity of supporting remote communities.
 
We have focused on prevention through improved hygiene practices and community environments, complementing medical treatment delivered by government and NGOs. endtrachoma2020.org.au
 
We have spent a staggering one million dollars installing laundries, providing mobile water tanks and thousands of hygiene kits for children in affected communities. 

Through the trachoma project, several Rotary clubs have developed ongoing relationships with Indigenous communities.
 
This combination of health outcomes, infrastructure, and relationship‑building makes the project a strong exemplar of Rotary’s impact across the country.  Of the 258 Rotary Clubs who have been involved, 35 clubs in District 9800 have supported and partnered with EndTrachoma in some way.
 
 
 
Projects funded by Rotarians towards the elimination of trachoma.
EndTrachoma funded water trailer
EndTrachoma Directors celebrating a successful health result