New State Lead for Optometry Tasmania

Optometry Tasmania (OTas) is pleased to welcome Karen Garner-Hamilton, who has replaced Jonathan Jones as the Tasmanian State Lead.

Karen brings a wealth of experience and genuine passion for supporting optometrists across the state. Her journey into the optometry profession began with work experience during high school at a local optometry practice. She greatly enjoyed the mix of clinical care and fashion! This early exposure encouraged Karen to complete a Bachelor of Vision Science from the Queensland University of Technology and later, gain a therapeutics qualification in Tasmania.

Karen’s move from Queensland to Tasmania was prompted by her desire for a cooler climate. After a stint in Burnie, she eventually settled in Hobart, where she has now lived for over 20 years. ‘Whilst I would always like it to be colder,’ she jokes, ‘I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.’

Speaking of her appointment as OTas State Lead, Karen says, ‘I am passionate about optometrists supporting optometrists and aim to address the unique challenges for our profession, particularly in geographically dispersed regions within Tasmania. I aim to reinforce the sense of community and connection amongst Tasmanian optometrists, especially those who are new to the state.’

She is ready to tackle key issues, such as access to ophthalmology services in regional areas. Karen sees collaborative care models as a vital solution, enabling optometrists to fully utilise their skills while easing pressure on the public health system. She is also a strong advocate for oral therapeutics, recognising the difficulties many patients face in accessing GP care. Her past experience as OTas Board President, and on the Boards of  OTas and Optometry Australia are sure to help Karen achieve these goals.

When asked what excites her about the future of optometry, Karen believes, ‘Optometry is uniquely positioned to contribute to more efficient preventative care, by leveraging AI advancements to address avoidable health conditions. I find this truly exciting.’

Karen looks forward to meeting OTas members at events throughout 2025, including the Regional Series and the TLC Conference in September. She is also available for individual discussions with members, primarily on Fridays, but with flexibility to accommodate members’ schedules. Please reach out to Karen in the first instance via email with any issues you’d like to discuss.

Farewell and thank you, Jonathan Jones

Jonathan Jones, former CEO of Optometry Tasmania, and more recently the Divisional Manager, Tasmania at Optometry Australia (OA), has recently left the Association after nearly nine years of service.

The OTas Board and OA team warmly thank Jonathan for his many years of service to Tasmanian optometry and optometrists, including coordination of Optometry Tasmania’s much-loved conference, TLC.

‘Jonathan was dedicated to supporting Tasmanian members. His integrity and exceptional service were greatly appreciated by the OTas Board,’ said OTas President, John Kingshott.

OA CEO, Skye Cappuccio, acknowledged the key role Jonathan played in facilitating the smooth integration of OTas with OA, noting, ‘Jonathan was a great colleague to work with, both as Optometry Tasmania’s CEO and as part of the OA team. His calm, considered approach was highly valued and he will be missed.’