Additional events and pre-conference experiences

Optometry Clincial Conference has a range of exciting events for delegates. Below is a summary - scroll down for more details of each event.

Welcome Reception

Date & Time: Sunday 17 August 2025, 5 pm - 7 pm

Location: Trade Expo, CENTREPIECE
Cost: Complimentary

Kick off the conference in style with our Welcome Drinks Reception. This is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow attendees, network in a relaxed setting, and set the tone for an amazing event ahead.

Enjoy a selection of drinks, light refreshments, and great company as we kick off an exciting and productive conference on the Centrepiece Terrace, with spectacular views of the Melbourne city skyline setting the perfect backdrop for the evening.

Pre-Conference Experience at CR Labs

Date & Time: Saturday 16 August 2025, 9am - 12:45pm

Location: CR Labs, 3/66-74 Micro Cct, Dandenong South
Cost: Complimentary for registered delegates only
Coach travel to CR Labs from CENTREPIECE included.

Step into the future of lens personalisation at the CR Labs booth.

We’re excited to showcase our AustralisVR™ device — an immersive, interactive experience designed to revolutionise the way lenses are prescribed. Come and try it for yourself and discover how this cutting-edge tool is changing patient engagement and prescription accuracy.

Plus, get a first look at our new fashion tint range, offering bold colour options and functional enhancements tailored for every lifestyle.

Whether you’re curious about innovation or looking to enhance your practice offering, we invite you to drop by, explore, and connect with our team.

PROGRAM

9:00 AM – Pick-Up from CENTREPIECE
Guests will be collected from the CENTREPIECE Trade Expo at 9:00 AM sharp.

10:00 AM – Arrival at CR Labs
Welcome to CR Labs! Upon arrival, enjoy light refreshments and the opportunity to meet our team.

10:30 AM – Guided Lab Tour Begins
Guests will be divided into two groups for a behind-the-scenes tour of our state-of-the-art laboratory. Each group will explore the facility over a one-hour guided session.

11:30 AM – Tour Concludes
Following the tour, please join us for a final round of light refreshments.

11:45 AM – Return Transfer
Guests will board the bus for the return trip to the CENTREPIECE Trade Expo.

 Why Join Our Guided Lab Tour?

  • Explore Advanced Technologies: See how European engineering and Australian craftsmanship merge to produce cutting-edge products like AustralisVR and the CR Tower.

  • Experience Excellence: Follow the journey of a lens through meticulous grinding, shaping, and rigorous quality checks.

  • Learn From Leaders: Understand how CR Labs continues its legacy of innovation under the leadership of Adam Fletcher.

  • Connect With Quality: Discover how initiatives like the Full Circle Program and coatings like Satin+ are revolutionizing eye care.

Whether you're an optical professional or simply curious about lens manufacturing, this tour offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse at the dedication and technology that shape the future of vision care.

How to book?

We are offering an exclusive opportunity for delegates to attend a guided lab tour.

If you are interested in joining the tour, please register your interest by emailing events@optometry.org.au. Spaces may be limited. Join us in celebrating Australian expertise and innovation during this exclusive Optometry Clinical Conference Pre-Conference event.  

Do you need to tick off your CPR requirement?

In line with our broader conference offerings, a CPR refresher course will be available as part of the additional activities on offer.

Ahpra requires that optometrists renew their CPR certificate every three years. If you need to refresh your CPR training, please join us at the Optometry Victoria South Australia office in Carlton. 

OA members can complete their CPR refresher with a practical, in-person session held the day before the conference. This course includes an online theory component and a hands-on assessment, helping you stay current with this essential requirement. Places are limited – don’t miss out!

Date: Saturday 16 August 2025

Times: (Practical component only)

  • Group 1 - 10am to 11am

  • Group 2 - 11am to 12pm

  • Group 3 - 12:30pm to 1:30pm

  • Group 4 - 1:30pm to 2:30pm       

Venue: TBC

Cost: $75 per person

Online assessment:
Attendees will need to complete the theoretical component of the course online. This will be a self-guided program where you will be required to complete the assessment prior to attending the practical assessment in Carlton on 16 August.. On the day of the CPR Training, all registered attendees will perform the practical CPR demonstration to complete the course. Log in details for the online assessment will be emailed to you before the practical session.