Australian biotechnology company PYC Therapeutics has advanced its RNA platform closer to human trials after determining safe and well tolerated doses of its co-lead drug candidate for retinitis pigmentosa 11 (RP11) in monkeys. Read more
Major update: No limits on unvaccinated staff and patients in NSW practices
Government-imposed limitations on unvaccinated patients and staff in New South Wales optometry practices have been lifted, with operators no longer needing to check the vax status of visitors. Read more
Dr Rene Hessling replaces Joe Redner as Zeiss ANZ managing director
After a career spanning more than 21 years at Zeiss, Mr Joe Redner has departed the company, handing the reins of the Australasia business to Dr Rene Hessling. Read more
Hoya launches Oliver Wolfe Junior frames
Hoya Vision Care Australia & New Zealand has unveiled a new Oliver Wolfe Junior frame collection – suitable for the company’s new myopia control spectacle lens – in response to practice requests to extend the brand’s popular adult range. Read more
IDEAS Van merges with St John Ambulance to tackle ‘tyranny of distance’
The IDEAS Van has joined forces with St John Ambulance Queensland, which will now operate the mobile ophthalmic facility across the state and in other regions. Read more
Bailey Nelson opens 50th Australian store in Sydney’s northwest
Australian optical chain Bailey Nelson has opened its 50th retail store in the Castle Towers Shopping Centre in Sydney’s burgeoning northwest. Read more
Cylite brings optical physicist on board
Melbourne-based next generation Hyperparallel OCT manufacturer Cylite has further expanded its R&D team with the appointment of optical physicist Dr Clare Manderson. Read more
Alcon to acquire Hydrus Microstent MIGS device for AU$640 million
Multinational ophthalmic company Alcon has agreed to acquire privately-owned Californian firm Ivantis – and its Hydrus Microstent minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) device – for an initial US$475 million (AU$640 m). Read more
Vision Eye Institute joins forces with Eye Surgeons SA
Vision Eye Institute (VEI) has expanded its network of clinics to South Australia through a partnership with Eye Surgeons SA (ESSA), adding two new clinics and three satellite consulting locations. Read more
Finding your spark: Top business habits
From setting goals and aligning values, to investing in technology and asking for feedback, there is no shortage of effective business habits for successful small-to-medium optical enterprises. Four leading Australian optometrists, an optical dispenser and a practice manager from various locations share what works best for them.