O-Show 2024, bigger and better than last year’s event

With over 90% of tickets sold and 60 exhibiting companies confirmed so far, O-Show 2024 is gearing up for a busy event from 17-18 May at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion.

A total of 130 booths will showcase the latest in lens technology, frames, children’s eyewear, sunglasses, equipment, accessories and services. There will be lots for visitors to browse through and yet all in a boutique space, making it easy to see everything, said organiser Amanda Trotman, CEO of the Australian Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association (ODMA). “Exhibitors will bring large ranges of their products, so this is a great opportunity for visitors to see and touch a large amount of eyewear and eyecare products in all shapes, sizes, colours and specs.”

Considering all members of an optometry practice, ODMA has introduced extended opening hours this year, plus presentations focused on dispensing and practice management, a central frames area within the exhibition hall, interactive displays, workshops and more, said Trotman. Out-of-towners can also maximise their Sydney visit and optometry education by staying on for the annual Super Sunday event – the CPD conference delivered by Optometry New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory – which starts two-days after the O-Show, she said.

Hosted at Doltone House, Darling Island, on 19 May, Super Sunday 2024 will feature Kiwi keynote speaker Adele Jefferies. Conference organisers are in the process of applying for New Zealand CPD. Registration closes Friday 3 May 2024 at 11.59pm.

ODMA awards

New for 2024, ODMA awards will focus on frames, including 'Most Outstanding Newly Released Frame RRP under AU$300' and 'Most Outstanding Newly Released Frame AU$330 and over'. Trotman said the awards “aim to spotlight the significant contribution that frames make to the comfort, eyecare, and visual appeal provided to its wearers”. 

Departing from tradition, the judging process will adopt a 'People's Choice' approach this year. ODMA will be asking independent optometrist practitioners, optical retailing staff and independent optical dispensers to vote for the nominated products that the practice feels truly enhance their day-to-day operations and the lives of their clients. 

Award submissions are open to all ODMA frame supply members, not just those exhibiting at O-Show 2024. To submit, contact vforbes@socialties.com.au. Submissions open 15 March and close 12 April, with voting occurring 17 April to 13 May. The winners will be announced during the Friday networking event from 5pm.