Tasmanian optometrist and former president of Optometry Australia (OA) in the mid 1980s, Mr John Rees has passed away.
He has been described by the organisation he once led as “instrumental in advancing the profession and improving the eye health of many through his dedication and passion”.
In a tribute to Rees, OA said his commitment to continuing education and professional development was a driving force behind many of his initiatives.
“He understood that the world of optometry was constantly evolving, and that optometrists needed to stay up-to-date with the latest research, technology, and best practices to provide the best care possible,” OA said.
As president, Rees introduced the Practice Enhancement Program, under the guidance of then CEO Mr Joe Chakman, which showed individual optometrists how to better manage and market their practices. It was the forerunner to what eventually became ProVision.
OA said that during his tenure, Rees worked tirelessly to promote the profession and ensure that optometrists had the support they needed to provide the best possible care to their patients.
Rees achieved international recognition when he was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry in 1997, and in 2010 was awarded life membership of Optometry Tasmania.
Mr Andrew Hogan, fellow Tasmanian optometrist and also a former president of Optometry Australia, said Rees never lost interest in his former vocation, even after he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
“‘The last time I saw him he could no longer speak but he used his communication device to ask all about current projects and what the [OA] national office was up to. He never lost interest in the profession,” Hogan said.
“John was the most influential person in my life and the reason I got involved with Optometry Australia as well as my motivation to become national president.”
More reading
States’ integration with Optometry Australia proceeds to next phase
Optometry Australia reignites calls for expanded scope this World Optometry Day
Optometry Australia supports Strengthening Medicare Taskforce Report
