Matthews staff on Nelson’s Christ Church Cathedral steps

The Rutherford Hotel in Nelson was a hive of activity when Matthews Eyecare hosted its inaugural conference late last year. With staff traveling from 26 practices, from Kerikeri to Invercargill, this landmark event celebrated learning, collaboration and connection. 

The programme included insightful presentations, engaging workshops and valuable networking opportunities, all designed to inspire and energise the optometrists, dispensing opticians (DOs), frame stylists and operations staff attendees. From clinical advancements to the art of frame styling with Christchurch stylist Lou Heller, the sessions catered to all aspects of the industry, fostering professional growth and addressing the unique challenges faced by team members. 

Inspiring keynote speeches from Emma Timmis, a four-time Guinness World Record-holding ultra-marathoner, and Tim McCready, strategy and development advisor at New Zealand Story, set the tone. CPD opportunities for both optometrists and DOs added value, ensuring attendees left motivated and equipped with practical tools to enhance their practice. A bustling trade show also saw suppliers showcase their offerings in private buying sessions. 

Phil Matthews, Missy King-Turner, award-winner Maria Paterson and Kirstin Formosa 

The highlight of the event was the awards gala dinner, where exceptional team members were celebrated for their contributions. Four prestigious awards were presented: 

• 2024 Clinical Excellence in Optometry: Andrew Sangster from Wellington, for his passion towards patients and dedication to ortho-k
• 2024 Outstanding Excellence in Dispensing: Maria Paterson from Napier, for her dedication to clients, deep industry knowledge and warm personality
• The Bill Matthews Award: Michele Reardon from Nelson, who has enabled independent optometry to thrive through enabling practices to have healthy finances
• 2024 Service Excellence in Practice Operations: Sarah Canham from Kapiti, for her operational leadership and heart-warming creativity. 

The conference wasn’t all about work, though – breakout sessions encouraged people to share insights and experiences, while social activities provided opportunities to unwind; from networking events to a golf tournament, the weekend was as much about building relationships as it was about personal growth. 

The event marked a milestone in the company’s journey, underscoring its commitment to excellence and collaboration. A special thanks goes to the suppliers, whose participation enriched the event, and to the incredible Matthews team, whose hard work made it a success.  

Congratulations to all award winners and here’s to many more years of learning, celebrating, and connecting! 

Missy King-Turner is a dispensing optician with Matthews Eyecare and secretary of the Association of Dispensing Opticians New Zealand.