Optometrists at ProVision’s recent national EDGE24 conference were offered something very much out of their comfort zone – a gripping account of the Thai cave rescue from a person who played a key role in the 2018 drama.
Dr Richard Harris captivated hundreds of independent optometrists, their teams and supplier partners at Crown Perth with his memories of the operation to save a group of boys trapped in a flooded cave system.
He was among a large number of speakers at the three-day event, delivering attendees a wealth of insights, innovations, and networking opportunities. Many addressed emerging industry trends, provided personal stories, and offered practical advice.
Dr Harris focused on resilience, risk management, and the critical decision-making required in high-pressure situations.
He shared the challenges of developing a rescue plan, including sedation strategies and co-ordinating with an international team of experts.
The successful outcome of the rescue highlighted not only the boys’ courage but also the importance of resilience and teamwork.
Dr Harris offered valuable insights on managing risks and making decisive choices – a message particularly relevant for optometrists navigating challenges in their practices.
Navigating retail challenges with intelligence
Mr Paul Zahra, CEO of the Australian Retailers Association, shared key insights into the evolving retail landscape and the challenges facing the industry today.
Zahra highlighted the sector’s significant economic impact, with a value of $420 billion and employment of 1.4 million Australians. However, he stressed that retailers were facing headwinds, including low consumer confidence and increasing job vacancies.
Zahra also discussed shifting consumer behaviour, with Australians prioritising essentials and small luxuries while online shopping continues to grow. His keynote underscored the importance of embracing AI to streamline operations and enhance customer service.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion emerged as another focal point, with Zahra urging businesses to reflect the diversity of their customer base.
Embracing the power of AI
AI was already on everyone’s mind, but Ms Inbal Rodnay’s session brought it into the realm of practice management, showing attendees how tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Perplexity can streamline tasks in their daily operations.
From generating patient letters to automating data management, Rodnay’s demonstration illustrated how practices could improve efficiency and free up time for patient care. The introduction of custom GPTs and voice-to-text features showcased the potential for AI to become an integral ‘member’ of the practice team.
Cultural intelligence in business
Ms Anoushka Gungadin, CEO of HeraMED, delivered a timely keynote on the growing importance of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) in the current business climate.
As globalisation continues to redirect consumer behaviour and demographics, Gungadin highlighted the need for businesses to adapt by fostering inclusivity and an understanding of diverse cultures.
She shared strategies for incorporating CQ into practice management, which enables optometrists to connect more deeply with their multicultural communities and expand their market reach.
Retail intelligence edge
Retail is rightfully on everyone’s mind right now, and Mr Brian Walker, CEO of The Retail Doctor Group, took EDGE24 attendees on a journey through the evolving retail landscape, and the critical role of technology, personalisation, and customer relationships.
In front of a packed auditorium, Walker outlined strategies to boost business value and loyalty by leveraging customer data, CRM systems, and personalising the patient journey.
Execution edge
Time management expert Ms Kate Christie delivered practical strategies for attendees to reclaim lost time and live more intentionally.
Through her “Master Every Moment” framework, Christie encouraged participants to align their goals with their personal values, overcome procrastination, and set smart goals to boost productivity.
Her actionable advice on time management and goal setting left attendees equipped to create more meaningful moments – both professionally and personally.
Courageous Leadership
Criminal and human rights lawyer Ms Rabia Siddique’s emotional keynote inspired attendees to reflect on their own leadership journeys.
Sharing personal stories of trauma and resilience, Siddique challenged the audience to be courageous leaders who confront difficult realities and act decisively. Her emphasis on the importance of mental health, inclusivity, and individual action resonated deeply, leaving attendees motivated to implement changes within their teams and communities.
Interactive workshops
EDGE24 hosted a series of focused, interactive workshops for attendees to dig deeper into key areas.
Under the guidance of industry leaders, topics ranged from the business of dry eye management to going hands-on with the latest AI tools and exploring the contrast between fixed and growth mindsets.
Connection
Networking played a central role throughout EDGE24, with attendees hosted at the Optus Stadium for a cocktail event complete with stadium lightshow. Also, there was a special breakfast for the ProVision Women in Optometry group and wellness activities to commence each morning of the conference.
EDGE24 culminated in the ProVision gala dinner and Supplier Awards ceremony, a celebration featuring a live band and acknowledgements for some of the industry’s most inspiring success stories.
2024 Members’ Choice Supplier Awards (as voted by ProVision members):
Most Outstanding Supplier Partner – VS Eyewear & Optique Line (joint winners)
Best Business Partner – Rodenstock
Best Product Value – VS Eyewear
Best Quality Product – Maui Jim
Best Customer Service – VS Eyewear
Best Product Range – CooperVision
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