The bus will be at North Haven car park on Ocean Drive between 9am until 3pm on January 16. 

Free checks are also available on January 17 at the Laurieton School Bus Zone on Bold Street from 9am until 3pm. 

Australian Hearing Port Macquarie manager Patrick Williamson said as age-related hearing loss developed gradually over time, it was common for people to be unaware their hearing was diminishing.

Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in the community, with about 60 per cent of Australians over 60 experiencing some form of hearing loss.

“A hearing check is a quick and easy way to measure the sounds you can and can’t hear,” Mr Williamson said.

“Our team will also be on hand to guide you through what next steps you may have to take in regards to your hearing.” 

Visitors to the bus can access information on a range of common hearing issues and view a display of easy-to-use hearing devices for around the home. This includes headsets for watching the TV and alert systems for doorbells.

“Not everyone who is experiencing problems hearing needs a hearing aid,” Mr Williamson said. 

“Sometimes it’s just hearing the TV at normal volumes, hearing your doorbell, or hearing your friends on the phone that’s the problem.”

No appointment is necessary. Australian Hearing will provide hearing checks to any interested adults over 18 who visit the bus on the day.

Australian Hearing provides subsidised hearing care for eligible people, including pensioners and most veterans.

For more information call 131 797 or visit www.hearing.com.au