1:30min
Following on from Victorian, South Australian and Tasmanian members voting ‘yes’ to integrate their respective membership bodies with Optometry Australia, the process to integrate operationally is underway. As part of this integration, three new ‘state lead’ positions have been announced, making an important step towards maximising benefits to members and reinforcing local connections.
Optometry Australia CEO, Skye Cappuccio, expressed her delight in announcing Lyn Hsieh and Cassandra Haines as new state leads for Victoria and South Australia respectively. Jonathan Jones, current CEO for Optometry Tasmania, will assume the state lead position for Tasmania post integration on 1 November.
‘These positions are crucial in ensuring a strong connection to members at the local level and in understanding the unique nuances and needs of the state environments,’ she said. ‘The state leads will play a vital role in identifying opportunities and advocating for the profession at the state level.
‘Lyn and Cassandra will bring their extensive expertise and local knowledge to these roles,’ said Cappuccio. ‘We are fortunate to have such well-connected optometrists who understand the challenges and opportunities within their respective states to take on these roles.
‘Jonathan likewise has extensive expertise and local knowledge, having held the CEO position for Optometry Tasmania for the last seven years.’
Both Lyn and Cassandra will be taking on their state lead roles on a part-time basis. Their work will be complemented by the work of Optometry Australia’s policy and advocacy, member support, events, and continuing professional development (CPD) teams, who will ensure that members in Victoria and South Australia continue to have access to local CPD, events, representation, and support. The involvement of current Optometry Victoria South Australia (OV/SA) staff in these teams ensures continuity of service and a seamless transition for members.
Lyn and Cassandra have extensive experience working in various optometry settings and are deeply connected to the local optometry community. Both currently work with Optometry Australia, with Lyn also having a background with OV/SA and Cassandra having been an OV/SA board member for the past four years. Their passion for the profession and commitment to supporting their peers make them well-suited for their new roles.
When asked about their excitement for these positions, Lyn and Cassandra expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact at the state level. They are eager to connect with local stakeholders, identify areas for growth and advancement, and advocate for the needs of optometrists in Victoria and South Australia.
‘I’m humbled to be afforded this opportunity to further connect with my fellow optometry colleagues and feel privileged to continue to advocate for the profession that has offered me so much,’ Lyn Hsieh said.
Cassandra Haines commented that, ‘This is an exciting time for South Australia with so many developments happening, both in the public health and private optometry spheres, and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to further connect with our fabulous optometrists in SA.’
Jonathan Jones is focused on maintaining strong support for Tasmania’s Lifestyle Congress (TLC), as well as expanding member training and education particularly in the north of the state.
‘I am encouraged by this change and believe it will bring many benefits for Tasmanian members as we build efficiencies and are further bolstered by the support and resources of Optometry Australia,’ he said.