For the first time in the South Burnett, cochlear implant services are now available locally in Kingaroy. South Burnett Hearing has officially partnered with Cochlear to bring this life-changing technology closer to home, meaning adults and children with significant hearing loss no longer have to travel to Toowoomba, Gympie or Brisbane for assessments and long-term support. This is a major milestone for the region and a significant step forward for local ear and hearing care.
A local clinic built by locals
South Burnett Hearing has deep roots in the community. The clinic is owned and operated by audiologists Shae Cull and Jacinda Gibson, who together bring more than 25 years of experience supporting patients across the region. Their focus has always been simple: to deliver independent, evidence-based hearing care that genuinely serves local people.
For years, Shae and Jacinda have seen the challenges families face when specialist services aren’t available nearby. Long drives for appointments, follow-ups, adjustments and troubleshooting can become overwhelming, especially for older adults, parents with young children, and patients with limited mobility. Bringing cochlear implant services to Kingaroy is their way of easing that burden and strengthening access to high-quality care in the South Burnett.
This new service reflects their ongoing commitment to meeting the community’s needs and expanding support for people with complex or progressive hearing loss.
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is a hearing device designed for people with severe or profound hearing loss who no longer receive enough benefit from hearing aids. While hearing aids make sounds louder, a cochlear implant works differently. It bypasses the damaged parts of the inner ear and sends sound signals directly to the hearing nerve, helping the brain understand speech more clearly.
Many adults and children who struggle with speech clarity, even when using powerful hearing aids, may be suitable candidates for a cochlear implant. For some, it can make everyday communication more accessible, helping them follow conversations, enjoy social situations, and reconnect with activities that have become difficult.
If you’re wondering whether you or your child might be suitable, South Burnett Hearing can now provide local assessments and guidance on the full process, including device options such as those offered by Cochlear.
Why having cochlear implant care in Kingaroy matters
Until now, anyone considering cochlear implants in Kingaroy or broader hearing implant services in South Burnett had to make frequent trips to major centres. These appointments add up quickly with the initial assessments, counselling, device activation, programming, and follow-up support.
Having these services available locally means less stress, fewer days off work or school, and reduced travel expenses. Families can focus on learning, adjusting and improving hearing outcomes, not just on organising logistics.
Local care also allows for more personalised support. Because South Burnett Hearing is part of the local community, patients benefit from continuity and familiarity. Shae and Jacinda understand the local healthcare pathways, have strong relationships with nearby GPs and specialists, and provide care that’s responsive, warm and genuinely community-centred. This combination helps create a smoother cochlear implant experience from start to finish.
Partnering with Cochlear for trusted technology and support
South Burnett Hearing is now offering services in partnership with Cochlear, the global leader in implantable hearing technology. This means patients can access world-class devices, proven outcomes and ongoing support, all without leaving the region. This partnership strengthens the range of services available at the clinic and ensures that local patients have access to up-to-date technology, clear information, and long-term assistance from professionals who know the systems inside and out.
Whether someone needs an initial suitability assessment, advice about the benefits and limitations of cochlear implants, or ongoing follow-up care, South Burnett Hearing can now deliver it right here in Kingaroy. This expansion is a major step for South Burnett Hearing cochlear services and a meaningful improvement in regional healthcare access.
