Nominations are now open for the first-ever Optometry Queensland Northern Territory (OQNT) Optometrist of the Year and Rising Star Awards, marking a new initiative to recognise excellence within the profession across Queensland and the Northern Territory.
The awards aim to highlight OQNT members who go above and beyond in delivering patient care, supporting colleagues, and advancing optometry. Practitioners, peers and community members are encouraged to put forward nominations ahead of the closing date of 7 June 2026.
The Optometrist of the Year Award acknowledges a member who, particularly over the past 12 months, has made an outstanding contribution to the profession. This may include innovation, leadership, initiative, or consistently high standards of patient care.
The Rising Star Award recognises an optometrist within their first 10 years of practice who has demonstrated excellence in areas such as innovation, research and academic publishing, community outreach, or other notable achievements early in their career.
To nominate, individuals must complete the relevant nomination form and submit it to Optometry Australia member engagement advisor Sarah Case via email at s.case@optometry.org.au. Award guidelines are also available for review to assist nominators.
The 2026 recipients will be announced at a dedicated ceremony during the Optometry Clinical Conference, scheduled for Sunday 9 August in Brisbane.
