Eyecare Plus Australia has invited members of Eyepro Marketing Ltd, a like-minded independent optometry group from New Zealand, to attend their national conference on the Gold Coast in October as a first step in a new affiliation formed between the two groups.
Established in 2003, Eyepro is New Zealand’s largest network of independent optometry, with over 60 independently owned practices across the country.
The invitation to attend the biennial conference marks the beginning of a relationship that will see the independent optometrists from New Zealand come together with their Australian counterparts to explore new ways to work together.
“We have the same values and many of the same challenges, so it makes sense for us to share knowledge and work together,” says Eyecare Plus Chairman, Justin Durkin.
Eyepro Managing Director, Chris Clark, says the affiliation is an exciting new step for the New Zealand group.
“It’s a win-win. We’ll come together as independent optometrists and exchange ideas around best practice. I’m sure we can learn from each other and there will be obvious savings in terms of the development of resources,” said Mr. Clark.
The long-term nature of the affiliation will be the subject of further discussions at upcoming strategy meetings, and it is likely to extend into training and marketing activities.
“Our profession is becoming increasingly competitive and we need to continue to evolve our services for members,” says Mr. Durkin.
“We’ve had an exciting year with winning the Canstar Blue ratings for the most satisfied patients in Australia but we can’t rest on our laurels,” he said.
The Eyecare Plus Biennial Conference will be held at The Star on the Gold Coast, 26-28 October.
