Expression Audiology marked a major milestone this October, celebrating 50 years of audiology services with a golden jubilee event at its Collingwood headquarters.

Held on 15 October 2025, the celebration brought together past and present staff, family members, Expression Australia board representatives, and guests from across the hearing care sector. The event honoured the legacy of H.E.A.R. Service—founded in 1975 by Mrs Patricia Pengilley and Mrs Kathleen Herron—which later evolved into Expression Audiology.

Pengilley and Herron were both teachers of the Deaf who recognised a need for specialised services for people who had acquired hearing loss later in life. Their pioneering work extended beyond fitting hearing aids to include community education, communication strategies, and advocacy for inclusive hearing care.

Reflecting on the service’s early years, Herron shared, “It’s so special to see how the organisation has grown and moved with the times. I’m so glad I was part of it—it’s a wonderful place today.”

Pengilley’s daughter Penelope and granddaughter Sarah also attended the event. In a video reflection, Penelope recalled her mother’s passion for client care and her seminal book By Word of Mouth, which provided communication guidance for people with hearing loss and their families. “The level of commitment she had for her clients was remarkable,” she said.

Today, Expression Audiology operates clinics in Collingwood, Oakleigh, Geelong and Frankston, continuing the founders’ mission to make hearing services accessible, inclusive, and community-centred.

Audiology Manager Jenna Turner said proceeds from the event raffle will support Expression Audiology’s Hearing Aid Bank, ensuring people in need—such as refugees—can access hearing technology. “The bank currently operates in Geelong through support from the Geelong Community Foundation, and our goal is to expand its reach across Victoria,” she said.

Expression Australia CEO Rebecca Adam described the anniversary as a celebration of “half a century of care, compassion and connection.” Board Chair Demetrio Zema praised the dedication of audiologists and leaders past and present, acknowledging the legacy built by the organisation’s founders and the strength of its current team.

The event was proudly supported by Word of Mouth Technologies, Phonak, Oticon, Unitron, WS Audiology, and other generous sponsors who donated raffle prizes.

Learn more about the legacy of H.E.A.R. Service and Expression Audiology here by watching the videos on Kathleen Herron and Patricia Pengilley: Our Rooms | Expression Australia