The University of New South Wales School of Optometry and Vision Sciences hosted a formal dinner to celebrate the achievements of Professor Brian Layland and to raise much needed funds for the refurbishment of a new optometry clinic at the school.
Prof. Brian Layland was presented with the prestigious J. Lloyd Hewett Award for Excellence for service to the industry. Prof. Layland is the Chair of the Brien Holden Vision Institute and Director of Aboriginal Programmes for the International Centre for Eyecare Education and has been instrumental in bringing eye care to Aboriginal communities across New South Wales and the Northern Territory.
The J. Lloyd Hewett Award was presented to Prof. Layland by Peter Hewett, the son of the late J. Lloyd Hewitt.
Refurbished Optometry Clinic
During the evening, Prof. Stapleton outlined her vision for the school’s new clinic which will include an expanded optometric retail outlet with six additional consulting rooms. Most importantly, the practice will be fitted with a working lab, where students will have the opportunity to learn to trace, fit and edge spectacles. The clinic, due for completion in 2011, is funded and managed in partnership by UNSW, industry leaders and alumni.
The clinic, due for completion in 2011, is funded and managed in partnership by UNSW, industry leaders and alumni
Internship Program Launched
Prof. Stapleton took the opportunity to announce the launch an Optometric Internship Program. The program is part of a wider educational initiative which will offer practical business training to all optometrists. The initiative is also designed to connect mature optometrists with young postgraduates with three years or more clinical experience. The internship program’s primary purpose is to provide young optometrists with the experience and skills they need to enter independent practice. By partnering young practitioners with mature optometrists the program also aims to help build existing practices and assist optometrists with feasible succession planning. The internship program will be launched in 2011.
New Chair of School
Professor Stapleton took the opportunity to announce Professor Mark Willcox, one of the most respected researchers in the field of eye health, as the new UNSW Chair who will help shape the future of the School of Optometry and Vision Science.
Professor Fiona Stapleton, Head of School of Optometry and Vision Science at UNSW, and orthoptist Mrs. Carolyn Hewett, organised the event which raised AUD$30,000 for the optometry clinic and attracted 160 optometry practitioners, academics, industry representatives and optometry students.
