Wasn’t it just last week we welcomed in the New Year and planned for 2013? Seriously, where has the year gone! We’re already heading into ‘Silly Season’, the lead-up to Christmas and long summer days. It’s been a big year.
For our holiday issue, we review the year that was, look at the optical newsmakers for 2013 and speak to a number of eye care professionals about their predictions for 2014 – personally, professionally and for the industry as a whole. It is heartening to hear the optimism that emerges, with plans in place for research, investment and the creation of new opportunities to build practices.
For many Australians, 2014 will be a time to rebuild, with devastating bushfires across New South Wales, in particular, signalling an unwelcome and unusually early start to the season. The heat and smoke generated by such fierce fires contributes to a range of eye conditions – and not just for those on the front line. We investigate some of the ocular hazards that accompany bushfires.
In ophthalmology news, RANZCO has just wrapped up another hugely successful scientific congress, this time hosted in Hobart. We sent senior journalist Melanie Kell to Tasmania to report back on what can only be described as a world class line up of national and international speakers.While she headed south, I was on my way north (by northwest) to the Hong Kong Optical Fair. This annual optical event is getting stronger every year.
As we close another successful year at mivision, I’d like to extend my thanks to all those who contribute to the strength of the magazine. Once again we partnered with a host of eminent ophthalmologists, optometrists and other eye care professionals, all of whom contributed articles that help to ensure mivision is a voice for the eye care professions and associated industries. Thank you.
I would also like to thank our advertisers – without them we could not continue to provide the magazine at no charge to you, our readers.
It is the feedback from our readers that constantly delights and encourages us. Whether you engage with mivision through the magazine, our website, the mivision Independent Clinical Learning Centre, our email newsletter, via Facebook – or all of these channels – your input is always valued.
As we say goodbye to 2013 and move into 2014, one thing is certain: if you’re not looking forward; if you’re not planning and preparing for growth; if you’re not innovating and challenging yourself to evolve – then you’re really just standing still. So watch this space! We’re going to charge into next year.
To all our contributors, advertisers and readers, the team at mivision wishes you a safe and relaxing Christmas, and all the best for a remarkable New Year.
Enjoy this issue.
Mark Cushway
Editor
