Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Optometry & Vision Science at UNSW

On Saturday, 23 May 2026, the School of Optometry & Vision Science at UNSW will host a landmark Gala Dinner to celebrate a series of extraordinary milestones that have shaped the profession and advanced eye care globally.

This event marks:

• 50 years since the founding of the School of Optometry (now the School of Optometry & Vision Science)
• 70 years since the first graduates from the part-time BSc (Optom Sci), with the optional Associate of Sydney Technical College add-on
• 50 years since Cornea and Contact Lens Research Unit (CCLRU) began within the School, laying the foundation for world-leading cornea and contact lens research
• 40 years of NATA-accredited excellence at Optical Research Laboratory (ORLAB), recognising its leadership in light, colour, and optical testing and measurement science
• 35 years since the establishment of Cooperative Research Centre for Eye Research and Technology (CRCERT), a pioneering research collaboration
• 25th anniversary of the Lederer Award, recognising outstanding contributions to vision science

The evening will feature networking and canapés, followed by a formal gala dinner, bringing together current staff and students, alumni, industry leaders, researchers, and clinicians to honour the School’s rich history and its impact on optometry and vision science. Tickets will go on sale in January 2026, so mark your calendars and secure your place at this historic event.

For those who are interested, guided tours of the School / interactive workshops (CPD included) will be offered just prior to the gala dinner, giving guests a chance to explore the spaces at the School where eye wonder, innovation and education continue to thrive.

This celebration takes place the day before Optometry Australia NSW/ACT Super Sunday, making it the perfect weekend for professional development and reconnecting with colleagues.  Join us as we reflect on five decades of achievement, celebrate our shared legacy, and look forward to the next chapter in advancing eye care and vision health.

Professor Lisa Keay, Head of School, UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science said “Reaching 50 years is a remarkable achievement for our School and for the profession. This celebration honours the visionaries who built our foundation, the alumni who have shaped eye care across Australia and beyond, and the vibrant community that continues to drive innovation.  Our commitment to world-class research and education has never been stronger, and together we look forward to shaping the future of optometry and vision science for generations to come.”

If you are interested in becoming an Alumni Champion and assisting us in reaching out to your old cohort, please contact us at optomalumni@unsw.edu.au