Event signals fresh approach for optical dispensing association

The deal, which is expected to have associated flow on benefits for mbers, is part of a more active approach ADOA is adopting in an effort to promote the profession and attract numbers. The event will also allow attendees to gain a glimpse at the association’s new website, which is nearing completion.ADOA Victoria president, Mr Leigh Robinson, explained that the idea of the event was to rind people of the value of mbership in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.“We’re motivated to make a difference. We’re just trying to show people that we are doing things and we invite anybody in the industry that is a dispenser to come along, catch up with old friends and potentially meet new friends,” he said.Robinson also spoke generally about some of the association’s future plans, which include professional indnity and public liability insurance for mbers, and a robust CPD program.“We’ve got a lot of work to do, but we’re starting with the continuing professional development. We’re strengthening that program and we’ve put a whole new policy in place – that will be one of the first thing’s that’s published on our website,” Robinson said, before adding: “We want to be more active within the industry, but we’re a small band of volunteers and we need mberships to drive that.”The event is separate from ADOA branches located in other states around the country, and while Robinson said there was a mutual desire to create a unified national body, so far logistics had prevented that from occurring.“As a small committee we’ve found it too difficult. We’re trying to strengthen what we’re doing for our Victorian mbers, and at the same time discuss a national body with NSW. The plan hasn’t altered, we’ve just considered it too difficult at the moment,” he said.“The main obstacles are distance and time. It would be great if we could sit down and make some decisions, but getting us all together is costly and nobody ses to have the time.”Bookings for the event, which will take place this Saturday from 6.30pm at Powerhouse Albert Park, are available through info@adoa.org.au.