Specsavers Clinical Conference celebrates 15 years of advancing eye care

1000 optometrists, ophthalmologists, industry experts and suppliers from across Australia and New Zealand gathered on the Gold Coast this weekend for the 15th annual Specsavers Clinical Conference (SCC), marking a major milestone for one of the region's premier optometry education events. 

Held at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, SCC brought together in-person and virtual delegates for a weekend of world-class clinical education, hands-on learning and professional networking, reinforcing its reputation as a leading forum for advancing eye care across Australia and New Zealand. 

The event also reflected Specsavers' ongoing commitment to investing in its people and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. Following its recent recognition as Australia's Best Place to Work, SCC showcased Specsavers’ continued focus on clinician growth through high-quality education, career development opportunities and meaningful peer connections. 

The conference featured a distinguished line-up of ophthalmologists and optometrists, including Professor Clare Fraser, Associate Professor James Elder, Dr Kate Gifford, Dr Bob Wang, Dr Mali Okada, Dr Lewis Lam, Dr Rushmia Karim, Dr Phillipa Sharwood and Dr Christolyn Raj. Sessions explored the latest developments in glaucoma, retinal disease, neuro-ophthalmology, myopia management, paediatric eye care, dry eye disease and ocular therapeutics. 

Alongside the plenary program, delegates took part in practical workshops, exhibitor-led education sessions and networking opportunities. In-person attendees received hands-on training in foreign body removal, advanced dry eye management, binocular vision and contact lens fitting, equipping them with skills they could immediately apply in practice. 

Beyond the clinical program, SCC provided valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Industry-sponsored breakfast sessions, a bustling exhibitor hall and dedicated networking events enabled delegates to connect with suppliers, explore emerging technologies and exchange insights with colleagues from across Australia and New Zealand. 

As SCC celebrated its 15th year, the conference highlighted both the evolution of optometry and the increasingly important role optometrists play in delivering preventative, evidence-based and accessible healthcare in their communities. 

In his opening speech, Specsavers Clinical Services Director Dr Ben Ashby reflected on SCC's journey over the past 15 years and the profession's contribution to advancing eye care across Australia and New Zealand.  

Looking ahead, he outlined an ambitious vision focused on further elevating clinical excellence and patient care throughout the region. 

He also spoke about the future of Specsavers' eye care strategy, showcasing advancements in clinical technology, myopia management, dry eye services and integrated models of care designed to improve patient outcomes and accessibility. 

Dr Ashby also used the SCC stage to announce the launch of the Specsavers Clinical Excellence Scholarship, a new professional development initiative that will invest in the next generation of clinical leaders across Australia and New Zealand. 

The scholarship will provide funding for up to 10 optometrists to undertake an advanced or short clinical course in 2027, supporting them to build expertise in areas of clinical interest and further elevate patient care outcomes. 

The initiative reflects Specsavers' ongoing commitment to clinical excellence and continuous professional development, ensuring optometrists have access to opportunities that help them grow their skills and deliver the highest standard of care to their communities. 

SCC also celebrated outstanding achievement through the 2026 Specsavers Excellence Awards, recognising clinicians and teams who have made an exceptional contribution to patient care and clinical excellence across the network. 

The prestigious Doug Perkins Medal was awarded to Specsavers Balgowlah (NSW) and Specsavers Blenheim (New Zealand). The Dame Mary Award for Outstanding Patient Care was presented to Lisa Ogi of Specsavers Runaway Bay (Queensland) and Shray Kamath of Specsavers Lower Hutt (New Zealand). Jerry Mathias of Specsavers Karratha (WA) received the Graduate Optometry Excellence Award, while Rafael Sy of Specsavers Ipswich (Queensland) was recognised with the Early Career Optometry Excellence Award. 

As the conference concluded, delegates returned to their practices equipped with new knowledge, practical skills and fresh perspectives to further enhance patient care in their communities. 

Fifteen years after its inception, SCC continues to bring together optometry, ophthalmology and industry leaders around a shared commitment to clinical excellence, helping shape the future of eye care across Australia and New Zealand.