Claire Ballantyne, Christchurch, QSM, for services to ophthalmology and the community
Mrs Claire Ballantyne has been the co-ordinator of the Christchurch School of Medicine's Department of Ophthalmology Diabetic Retinopathy Photographic Screening Service since 1992. In this position, she is widely respected for her ability to work with and recall a large number of patients, and her sensitivity to the cultural needs of patients. She has voluntarily promoted the Christchurch Hospital Eye Screening Programme. Her conscientious work over many years has been vital to the screening of preventable blindness in Christchurch. Along with this, she is widely involved in her community. She has been involved in the YMCA movement as a volunteer at the highest levels, including being National President from 1999 to 2000. Mrs Ballantyne was a member of the YMCA South Pacific Commission, and the Gender Committee of the Asia and Pacific Alliance.