Optometry Tasmania is gearing up for a busy events season, with its flagship conference – the Tasmanian Lifestyle Congress (TLC) – returning to Hobart next month.
As the dust settles on the March 2024 state election, Optometry Tasmania (OTas) is ramping up efforts to advance eye care initiatives throughout the state.
Most notably, over 40 practitioners – including optometrists, orthoptists, and ophthalmologists – recently met at the Royal Hobart Hospital for an educational course on paediatric eye care. The workshop was run by an expert team from Queensland who implemented the Paediatric Optometry Alignment Program with Children’s Health Queensland. Following the success of the program, the Tasmanian Eye Services Network is working towards implementing similar initiatives in Tasmania to assist in streamlining paediatric eye care in the state.
With the state election now behind us, OTas will continue to work with key players involved in the Tasmanian Eye Services Network to drive forward identified priorities. Our focus turns to forging strong relationships with the Tasmanian government, incoming Health Minister, and other influential decision makers to improve community eye health outcomes.
EARLY CAREER AND NEW MEMBER EVENT
OTas is pleased to be hosting an event for our early career members (less than 10 years from graduation), to be held at the Boardwalk Bistro at Wrest Point on 16 August. Join us to get insights into the most frequently asked questions received by Optometry Australia’s Advisor Help Desk.
New members living and working in Tasmania are also warmly welcome, including recent graduates who have recently arrived in Tasmania. This curated networking event will also provide members with a Q&A opportunity to discuss topics that textbooks can’t answer, including salary negotiations, red flags in employment contracts, acting as a locum, starting your own practice, and more.
Please register by Friday 9 August to secure your place and connect with other graduates and new members in Tasmania. Register at optometry.org.au/institute-of-excellence/ cpd-events/early-career-and-new-memberwelcome- your-burning-questions-answered-tas.
GEARING UP FOR TLC
Tasmanian Lifestyle Congress (TLC) returns in August. This anticipated conference, set against the scenic backdrop of Hobart, promises to be a highlight for optometrists statewide. Notable speakers include Professor Alex Hewitt from the Centre for Eye Research Australia speaking on risk factors and genetic testing for glaucoma, and Dr Jack Phu from the Centre for Eye Health talking about retinal nerve fibre layer loss. Dr Kristin Bell, Head of Department Ophthalmology at the Royal Hobart Hospital and Chair of the Tasmanian Eye Services Network, will provide an update on local matters and policies, while optometrist Joshua Clark will discuss current contact lens materials.
In a first for TLC, OTas will introduce a grand rounds session on the Sunday to showcase interesting cases from colleagues. Presentations will be chosen from the submitted abstracts, based on the quality of clinical findings, management, and discussion.
A social function on Saturday evening at the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania will provide an opportunity to enjoy good conversation and the best Tasmanian produce, while overlooking the picturesque River Derwent.
The educational aspect of TLC is complemented by an extensive trade expo, allowing attendees to explore the latest innovations in optometry and engage with industry leaders.
CooperVision will host a breakfast on Sunday morning, which is complimentary with Sunday registration, providing delegates with a wonderful opportunity to catch up with colleagues.
TLC REGISTRATIONS
Of course, no visit to Hobart would be complete without experiencing the city’s charm firsthand. August is a great time to visit, and the Wrest Point Hotel, TLC’s venue, is situated on the Sandy Bay waterfront and features some of the best views in the city. With its proximity to Hobart’s iconic attractions, including Salamanca Place, Battery Point, Hobart CBD, and the Brook Street Pier for ferries to various water and wilderness sites, attendees will have ample opportunities to explore the city during their stay.
Registrations are open, and we encourage you to secure your spot early. Don’t miss this opportunity to obtain up to 17.5 CPD hours, including five therapeutic hours.
Visit tlc.optometry.org.au to register. We look forward to seeing you at TLC!
Jonathan Jones is the Division (Tasmania) and Finance Manager for Optometry Australia.
