Key to the City for Newcastle Eye Hospital Foundation

Lord Mayor of Newcastle Nuatali Nelmes has presented the Key to the City to the Newcastle Eye Hospital Foundation for its tireless work restoring sight to disadvantaged people overseas.

Established in 2013, the Foundation funds more than 2000 operations each year in Indian communities where locals have gone blind from cataracts and can't afford the simple surgical procedure.

Dr Peter Davies receiving the Key to the City from Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes

Cr Nelmes said the Foundation worked in some of India's poorest communities, also providing humanitarian support, as well as study centres in local schools.

"The Newcastle Eye Hospital Foundation is another example of wonderful local organisations working quietly to improve the lives of other people," she said.

"It really embodies that Novocastrian spirit of giving, and helping others - whether it's the people next door or communities in need overseas."

Foundation director and founder Dr Peter Davies said he was honoured to accept the Key to the City, which is part of Newcastle City Council's Newcastle Ambassador Program.

Dr Davies travels to India annually to provide resources and support for the Foundation's work.

"Working for the disadvantaged is an honour," he said.

"It costs just $50 for Australians to provide sight-saving, life-changing surgery for disadvantaged patients overseas."

The Newcastle Ambassador Program was founded in July 2017 to highlight the efforts of Novocastrians across all sectors in promoting our City, and to recognise those who work without recognition or acknowledgement.

The Program is an informal acknowledgment of excellence and complements Council's formal Freeman of the City, Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the year and Community Group of the Year awards.