The Dry Eye Society (DES) will bring together leading Australian clinicians for its final Melbourne educational event of 2026, delivering an evening of clinical education focused on the evolving management of dry eye disease and ocular surface disorders.
To be held at Chin Chin from 6pm on Tuesday 1 September 2026, the program will include presentations from recognised experts across ophthalmology and optometry, covering eyelid disease, therapeutics, and specialty contact lenses.
Additionally, the two-hour continuing professional development (CPD) event will include an interactive panel discussion exploring current challenges, complex clinical cases, and innovations in dry eye management.
the program will include presentations… covering eyelid disease, therapeutics, and specialty contact lenses
This event is exclusively for Dry Eye Society members and registration is essential, with places limited. Eye care professionals interested in becoming members can find out more at dryeyesociety.com.au.
Program
- Dr Justin Friebel: Lid abnormalities associated with dry eye
- Dr Leigh Plowman: Xiidra: where does it fit in dry eye management?
- Jacinda Van & Michaela Rossi: Contact lenses for dry eye
About the Speakers
Dr Justin Friebel MBBS (Hons), FRANZCO is a Melbourne-based specialist ophthalmologist and subspecialist oculoplastic surgeon. After completing specialist ophthalmology training at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, he undertook advanced fellowship training in the United Kingdom and Canada. Dr Friebel has developed a strong reputation in oculoplastic surgery, specialising in eyelid disorders, ocular surface health and reconstructive procedures. His presentation will explore the significant role eyelid abnormalities play in dry eye disease.
Dr Leigh Plowman is recognised as one of Australia’s leading clinicians in dry eye management. With more than two decades of clinical experience, he has contributed to Optometry Australia’s inaugural Dry Eye Guide, regularly publishes in mivision and Insight, and presents nationally on dry eye disease and ocular surface management. Having experienced dry eye himself, Dr Plowman combines clinical expertise with a strong appreciation of the patient journey.
Jacinda Van is an optometrist with Richard Lindsay & Associates. After completing an intensive clinical residency in specialty contact lenses and primary eye care, she has developed a particular interest in advanced contact lens fitting and managing complex corneal conditions.
Michaela Rossi, an optometrist at Richard Lindsay & Associates, developed her passion for specialty contact lenses through her mother’s experience with keratoconus. She has a special interest in scleral lenses, corneal ectasia and ocular surface disease, with a focus on improving patient outcomes through customised contact lens solutions.
