On behalf of the organising committee, it is my pleasure to extend a warm invitation to the 2024 RANZCO New Zealand Branch 74th Annual Scientific Meeting and the New Zealand Ophthalmic Nurses Group Meeting. The conference will run from Friday 17 May to Saturday 18 May, with the registrar training day followed by the welcome function on Thursday 16 May. We are also delighted to announce a concurrent half-day practice manager session on Saturday, organised by Ophthalmology New Zealand.
Nestled within the heart of Auckland's vibrant cityscape, the luxurious Cordis Hotel sets the stage for our meeting. Its spacious conference halls, equipped with cutting-edge technology, provide the perfect environment for engaging discussions and networking. This conference promises captivating talks under the theme ‘Controversies, challenges and change’, meticulously curated by our scientific programme chair, Professor Charles McGhee, to enlighten and inspire delegates.
This year, we are privileged to host esteemed speakers from around the globe, each bringing unique insights and expertise to enrich our discussions. Professor Uday Devgan, a distinguished eye surgeon and founder of the Cataract Coach YouTube channel, will delve into the realm of intraocular lens calculations with artificial intelligence and machine learning, offering invaluable perspectives on this evolving field. Dr Audrey Looi, a pioneering oculoplastic surgeon from Singapore, will share her innovative approaches to blepharoplasty, providing attendees with first-hand insights into the latest surgical techniques and advancements. Associate Professor Simon Skalicky, renowned for his visionary contributions to advancing glaucoma services, will enlighten us on the feasibility and benefits of virtual and home glaucoma monitoring, which is revolutionising patient care in this domain. Elizabeth Okely, a respected figure in ophthalmic nursing, will draw from her extensive experience to address the challenges of burnout reduction, offering practical tips and strategies for maintaining wellbeing in the demanding healthcare environment. Inspiration, meanwhile, will come courtesy of Carl Van Roon, whose martial arts journey transcends boundaries, offering profound insights into motivation and personal development.
