News
Marc Lyell Awarded International Honour for Lifelong Contribution to the Guide Dog Movement
We are incredibly proud to announce that Marc Lyell has been awarded the Ken Lord Award at the 2025 International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) Conference. This is the highest honour an individual can receive within the international Guide Dog community – and one that reflects decades of dedication, innovation, and leadership.
Many clients will know Marc through his work as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI), but few may realise the extent of his impact. Marc began his career as an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Instructor, later becoming a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist. His deep understanding of mobility training has led him to become a leader in developing new approaches and educational tools for the next generation of GDMIs.
A Legacy of Innovation
Marc’s innovative spirit was clear early in his career. In the late 1980s, he co-invented the first international version of the ‘rolling ball’ long cane tip – now arguably one of the most commonly used cane tips globally. He also played a vital role in designing client accommodation and kennel facilities, enabling on-site residential training for the first time at Guide Dogs Queensland.
Global Leadership and Education
Throughout his career, Marc has shared his knowledge through the IGDF as an assessor and committee member, shaping Guide Dog programs across continents. In 2019, he spearheaded the redevelopment of Guide Dogs Queensland’s GDMI education program. His vision was to create a modern, modular learning pathway that would enable Guide Dog Trainers to advance their skills and become fully qualified GDMIs.
The result? A comprehensive, online learning platform that combines written content, video, quizzes, and more – tailored for modern learners. This platform was adopted by the IGDF and shared globally with member schools in 2021. At the 2023 IGDF conference, Marc presented this work to an international audience, receiving a standing ovation. IGDF Chair Bill Thornton called the project “brilliant” and was visibly moved by its impact.
Looking to the Future
Marc isn’t slowing down. He’s currently collaborating with Guide Dogs Australia member schools to take the education program even further — working toward university-level accreditation. His drive to ensure high-quality, standardised training reflects a commitment not just to the profession, but to every person who relies on a Guide Dog for independence.
In Marc’s own words:
“Demand for high quality and nationally accountable training and qualifications are an emerging trend. Let’s be at the forefront of that trend and become a leader within the Assistance Dog industry globally.”
Marc’s contributions have directly influenced the careers of countless GDMIs and have indirectly supported thousands of people with low vision and blindness across Australia and beyond.
A Well-Deserved Honour
Receiving the Ken Lord Award is a fitting tribute to a career spanning nearly five decades. Marc’s passion, generosity, and determination have left an indelible mark on the Guide Dog community, not just as an instructor, but as a mentor, teacher, and global innovator.
We congratulate Marc on this extraordinary achievement and thank him for his lifetime of service to enhancing mobility, independence, and opportunity for people with low vision and blindness.
