Auslan message heard by all

Auslan interpreters have been at Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Premier Mark McGowan’s side throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, translating the leaders’ lifesaving messages to the deaf community across Australia.

The interpreters have gained lots of attention on social media and have been praised by many for their committent and dedication.

In the past two months, there has been an increase in the demand to learn Auslan in Australia.

Auslan teachers Darren and Briana Beath said they had a surge in people reaching out to learn the language and even some requests from people wanting to become Auslan interpreters.

Mrs Beath, who is originally from Bunbury, said she was born deaf into a hearing family.

Her husband Mr Beath was born hearing and became deaf at the age of two.

The pair had several Auslan classes scheduled in March and April in the South West, but were forced to postpone them due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“Everyone needs interpreters including hearing people so that they can understand deaf people,” Mrs Beath said. “It is all about being inclusive.”

She believed it was important to have interpreters for breaking news updates to keep the deaf community informed.

“It can save lives during bushfires, floods and pandemics.”

Mr Beath believed it was important to teach Auslan in schools.

“It is a beautiful language to learn,” he said.

Auslan is offered at many South West schools including Treendale Primary School, Boyanup Primary School, Dalyellup Primary School and Carey Park Primary School.