Australia’s peak ophthalmology body has elected a new board to tackle what it describes as the nation’s looming eye health crisis, with new leadership set to steer critical reforms as demand for vision care services reaches unprecedented levels amid an ageing population and growing diabetes epidemic.
Dr Peter Sumich has been re-elected as president of the Australian Society of Ophthalmology (ASO), leading an executive team that includes Dr Justin Sherwin as vice president and Mr Mark Grey as secretary/treasurer.
The board welcomes two new members, Associate Professor Thomas Campbell and Professor Colin Chan, following elections at the organisation’s annual general meeting in Melbourne in November.
They join ASO’s continuing board members: Dr Rahul Chakrabarti, Dr Tricia Drew, Mr Kerry Gallagher, Professor Ashish Agar, Dr Tom Cunneen, Dr Louise Robinson, Dr Andrew Atkins, Dr Paul Athanasoiv, and Dr Michael Steiner.
ASO CEO Ms Katrina Ronne said the new leadership team comes at a crucial time for Australian eye health services.
“This board brings together an exceptional mix of clinical excellence, academic leadership and strategic vision,” Ronne said.
“With an ageing population and increasing demand for eyecare services, we need strong leadership to ensure all Australians have access to world-class ophthalmology care.”
The elections see Dr Sherwin elevated from his previous role as secretary/treasurer to vice president, whilst Mr Grey moves from board member to take on the secretary/treasurer position.
“We’re particularly excited about the depth of experience our new board members bring,” Ronne said.
“Associate Professor Campbell and Professor Chan are recognised leaders in their fields who will help drive innovation in how we deliver eyecare across metropolitan and regional Australia.”
The ASO farewelled two long-serving board members, Dr Shish Lal and Dr Laurie Sullivan, who have served since 2009 and 2015 respectively.
“Dr Lal and Dr Sullivan have been instrumental in establishing ASO as the authoritative voice on eye health policy and practice in Australia. Their legacy will continue to shape our work for years to come,” Ronne said.
The Australian Society of Ophthalmology represents over 1,000 ophthalmologists nationwide, advocating for excellence in eyecare and supporting professional development across the sector.
