We wrapped up the 2026 Roadshow at Carina Leagues Club with an evening of workshops, supplier conversations, food and drinks. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our Principal Partner Johnson & Johnson and all of our Collaborating and Participating Partners for making it possible.

An open and informal evening designed for optometry students of who wanted to explore independent practice as a genuine career pathway.

Our first stop of the 2026 Roadshow brought independent practices, UWA students, dispensers, team members and suppliers together at Nesuto Curtin Perth Hotel. From the supplier tables to the hands-on workshops, it was a great night of conversation, shared ideas and face-to-face connection.

Vision Connection, Social Night!

Good company, conversations, and a relaxed night with the Vision Connection Community!

Vision Connection participated in The Optometry Marketplace, hosted by Young Optometrists, an event designed to help early-career optometrists explore the diverse career opportunities available across the profession.

Representing Vision Connection, Michael Nasser, Chair of Vision Connection, presented “Independent Means Choice”, a session exploring what independent optometry can offer beyond traditional career pathways. Drawing on his experience across Opticare, Vision Connection, The Focused View podcast, and the broader optical industry, Michael shared the value of independence, the importance of building the right support network, and why career choice is more than simply selecting where to work.

Throughout the event, Michael and Joanne, Vision Connection’s CEO, connected with students and early-career optometrists, discussing career pathways, answering questions about independent practice, and introducing some resources and support available through Vision Connection.

Managing costs isn’t just about spending less, it’s about making smarter decisions that support long-term growth. The most successful practices regularly review their expenses, systems, suppliers, and processes to ensure every dollar is working as hard as possible. Small improvements today can create a stronger and more valuable practice tomorrow.

Contact lenses can be more than just an additional product category. They can be a valuable way to strengthen patient relationships, improve retention, and create ongoing opportunities within your practice. Sometimes small changes in conversations, recommendations, and follow-up can make a significant difference.

Vision Connection is excited to take part in QOSS Industry Day, an annual event hosted by the Queensland Optometry Student Society (QOSS). The event connects optometry students with industry professionals, independent practices, and suppliers, creating opportunities to explore career pathways and build valuable professional relationship.