The Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists (ACBO) has recognised “the outstanding service to patients and the profession” of three members: Steve Leslie, Liz Wason, and Lesley Vedelago.
KEITH WOODLAND AWARD: LESLEY VEDELAGO
Presented at the 2024 ACBO Connect conference, the Keith Woodland Award was awarded to Ms Vedelago for her outstanding contribution to behavioural vision care. Receiving the award, Ms Vedelago said she was humbled to be recognised for her contribution to behavioural optometry, particularly in neuro-optometric rehabilitation and chronic fatigue syndrome. She said her passion for this area of practice was fuelled by a family member affected by a traumatic brain injury (TBI) 37 years ago and her mother’s stroke.
“Early in my career it was clear to me that there was a significant role that behavioural optometry could play in vision rehabilitation of our TBI, stroke and neurologically challenged patients… significantly improving their quality of life,” Ms Vedelago told the audience at the awards event.
GRAHAM PEACHEY AWARD: LIZ WASON
The Graham Peachey Award was presented to Ms Wason in recognition of her contribution to behavioural education. Describing the award as “an honour”, Ms Wason reflected on previous awardees “who have educated and inspired me throughout my career”.
“I believe in sharing my skills and knowledge with the intent that in some capacity I may contribute to the betterment of our profession in providing exceptional patient care. ACBO is such a wonderful group of caring and insightful optometrists who I consider as intelligent and caring colleagues, so I am grateful and a little shocked to be acknowledged in this way,” Ms Wason said.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD: STEVE LESLIE
Presented with the President’s Award, Mr Leslie expressed his gratitude to the ACBO Board and members and said, “it is satisfying to be able to give back to our profession by teaching others, as well as using my experience in the politics of optometry to advance communications among eye care practitioners of the science and benefits of behavioural optometric care”.
Mr Leslie began learning behavioural optometry concepts and clinical practices in 1983, learning “as much as possible from Australian pioneers including Graham Peachey and Chris Henderson, and American practitioners like Don Getz and Bob Kraskin”. He said he has “enjoyed sharing the neverending learning process with many great colleagues who are dear friends”.
