1:30min
Optometrists in the Northern Territory will soon have hands-on, practical professional development closer to home, with Optometry Queensland and Northern Territory (OQNT) hosting its first-ever Interactive Series event in Darwin.
Darwin Interactive, running 18–19 April 2026, is a boutique, face-to-face CPD conference delivering case-based learning through immersive clinical sessions and peer discussion.
The event addresses long-standing gaps in access to interactive CPD for regional and remote optometrists, who often face significant travel barriers to major city conferences.
OQNT President Nancy Atkinson said bringing the Interactive Series to Darwin is a deliberate move to support the local workforce.
‘This is a landmark moment for the Interactive Series and for optometrists in the Northern Territory,’ Atkinson said.
‘Clinicians in regional and remote areas have had to travel significant distances to access interactive CPD. Hosting this event in Darwin is about making high-quality learning more accessible and more equitable.’
The event will be officially opened by Optometry Australia CEO Mark Nevin, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to connecting and supporting optometrists across Australia.
‘Having Mark in Darwin to deliver the opening welcome sends a clear message that regional and remote optometry matters,’ Atkinson said.
‘It highlights Optometry Australia’s commitment to ensuring all members, regardless of geography, can access meaningful, practical professional development.’
CPD designed for everyday practice
The Interactive Series focuses on real-world clinical scenarios rather than passive lectures.
Over 1.5 days, sessions cover glaucoma management, oral therapeutics, macular conditions and medico-legal risk, all through practical, case-based learning.
‘This is CPD that directly translates into clinical confidence,’ Atkinson said.
‘Case-based learning allows optometrists to work through complex scenarios they actually encounter in practice, which makes the education far more relevant and immediately useful.’
The in-person format also supports interactive CPD hours and encourages peer discussion, reflective learning and networking.
Speakers delivering real-world insights
Darwin Interactive features a mix of local and interstate experts:
- Janelle Scully, Manager of Ocular Disease and Diagnostic Services – interactive glaucoma and oral therapeutics sessions
- Dr Susith Kulasekara, Consultant Ophthalmologist – differentiating causes of macular oedema
- Sophie Koh, Optometry Australia Director of Professional Services – complaints, compliance and professional risk
- Georgia Bennett, remote eye health practitioner – collaborative care in rural and remote NT communities
Strengthening the regional workforce
Atkinson said regional and remote optometrists play a critical role in improving eye health outcomes, often in complex, resource-limited settings.
‘Regional and remote optometrists play a critical role in improving eye health outcomes, often in complex and resource-limited settings,’ she said.
‘By delivering high-quality, practical CPD locally, we’re investing directly in the capability, confidence and retention of this essential workforce.’
Darwin Interactive will create a space for collaboration, knowledge exchange and professional support that ultimately benefits patient care.
“This opportunity to come together, share experiences and learn from peers is incredibly valuable, particularly for clinicians practising outside major metropolitan centres,’ said Atkinson.
For more information or to register, visit Darwin Interactive 2026.