2024 ASO Skills Expo Presenter Bios
A/Prof Ashish Agar | Vice President, Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Ashish is a glaucoma consultant and surgeon at the Prince of Wales and Sydney Eye Hospitals, and is a Partner with Marsden Eye Specialists in Sydney. He is also a conjoint Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales was Fellowship trained in Oxford.
Hailing from regional NSW, Ashish is committed to ensuring medical eye care is not limited by geography. Ashish plays a pivotal role with the Outback Eye Service and is the Director of the Ophthalmology Service at Broken Hill Hospital. Ashish is Co-Chair and New South Wales lead of the IRIS Program and is Chair of the RANZCO Indigenous Committee.
Find Ashish on social media:
LinkedIn: A/Prof Ashish Agar
Dr Andrew Atkins | Board Director (Victoria), Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Andrew is an established eye surgeon in Melbourne with a special interest in cataract surgery.
It was the Federal Government’s decision to cut the Medicare rebate for cataract surgery in 2009, which prompted Andrew to become an active member of the ASO. From 2012–2014 he served as ASO Vice President.
Andrew was a previous Board Member of the Independent Ophthalmic Network (ION).
Outside of his private practice work, he has been involved in public hospital and medical student teaching, as well as an examiner in pharmacology with The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.
He has spoken at ophthalmology conferences both in Australia and abroad, as well as provided voluntary eye surgery in the South Pacific.
Andrew says he is passionate about helping to ensure the ASO exists as an organisation relevant to ophthalmologists at every stage of their career.
Joanne Bezzina | Pilates Practitioner
Joanne Bezzina is a dynamic and dedicated Pilates practitioner with over 20 years of experience, who is recognised internationally and was the winner of the Pilates Anytime instructor competition.
She is the owner of Sydney Pilates studio, Pilates On George. Her teaching blends traditional and contemporary methods, emphasising clear communication, humour, and client empowerment.
Committed to continuous learning, her primary goal is to inspire and empower clients, ensuring they leave each session happier, more relaxed, and stronger.
Find Joanne on social media:
LinkedIn: Pilates on George | Instagram: @joannebezzinapilates
Jarrod Bramble | Managing Partner, Cutcher & Neale
With a continued niche focus of working with medical practitioners, Jarrod’s expertise has enabled him to guide many of his clients from the initial stages of wealth creation as Doctors in Training, right through to wealth protection, planning and retirement strategies.
His passion for helping practitioners to improve their performance through sound financial management has led to the development of WealthStart and Australian Medical Benchmarks, which are all aimed to assist medical professionals and practices reach their financial, business and investment goals sooner.
Find Jarrod on social media:
LinkedIn: Jarrod Bramble
Lisa Brandon | Manager, Cases & Investigations (Solicitor) at MDA National
Lisa graduated from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws degree and was immediately drawn to work in the public service. Following two years at the Crown Solicitor’s Office, Lisa’s interests were piqued when a position at the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission became available.
She commenced her employment with the Commission in 2010, and worked there for the next thirteen years, building her career and expertise in health care regulation. A career highlight was managing a team in the Investigation Division, combining her passion for investigative casework, and enjoying the opportunities presented by the leadership role.
In June 2023, Lisa commenced employment at MDA National as a Manager, Cases and Advisory Services. In this role she provides assistance and advice to medical practitioners with respect to coronial and other investigations, complaints, privacy issues, disciplinary matters, and claims, and supports her team in the execution of these functions.
Stuart Budd | Head of Strategic Account Management, Inservio
Stuart has worked in the Medical Devices and Pharmaceutical industry for over 22 years and at Inservio since 2021.
Inservio is a patient service provider well known in Ophthalmology and other therapy areas, where Stuart supports and manages the field team who assist in delivering those services.
Stuart is passionate about supporting improvements in patient outcomes and has a background as a Registered Nurse.
The Inservio team all understand that delivering best in class health services requires constant innovation, including digital health. By closely listening to the feedback of patients, specialists and clinics, Stuart ensures their needs continue to be met through Inservio’s service offerings.
Ian Burgess | Chief Executive Officer, Medical Technology Association Australia
Ian is CEO of the Medical Technology Association of Australia, the peak national association representing companies in the medical device industry.
Ian’s previous CEO roles have included the Australian Dental Association (NSW); Ortho Group, a commercial health business; and the Australian Orthopaedic Association.
Ian holds an MBA from Macquarie University and a Bachelor of Economics from the Australian National University, and he is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Ian is also a non-executive director of Red Nose, formerly known as SIDS & Kids, a well-respected not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to saving the lives of babies and children.
Tsu Shan Chambers | Optometrist • Film Actor, Writer, Producer
Tsu Shan Chambers is an Optometrist turned Actor/Writer/Producer who is passionate about bringing awareness to the issues that matter through telling provoking stories.
She was elected to the Screen Producers Australia (S.P.A) Council, recognised on the Inside Film (IF) Magazine’s Rising Talent List 2023, and was included in the inaugural AA122 list recognising Asian Australians who have had the most impact on Australian culture. Tsu Shan was also awarded the Charlies Grant Residency with
Australians in Film in 2021.
Tsu Shan holds a Graduate Certificate in Creative Producing at Australian Film and Television Radio School (AFTRS) and a Master in Public Health.
She has also been a Queensland finalist in the Telstra Business Awards, won the Sunshine Coast Outstanding Business Woman of the Year award, and was on the front cover of Profile Magazine. In 2003, she was awarded the Northern Territory Young Achievers Awards 2003, Parmalat Community Service Award; 2002 Young Territorian of the Year for the Darwin Region; and was Young Australian of the Year 2002 Semi-Finalist for The Pacific Access Community Service Award.
More recently, Tsu Shan produced the romance drama, UNSOUND, about deaf culture and pride. It won and was nominated for a range of key industry awards, including ‘Best Indie Film’ at the AACTA awards in 2020, and has obtained distribution in multiple international territories, including Netflix in ANZ and Fuse TV in the US.
In 2022, she produced SUKA, a multicultural action drama supported by Screen NSW that was broadcast on Channel 9 in December 2023.
Concurrently, Tsu Shan completed the feature film, MY EYES, a heart-felt family drama inspired by true events. It received VIC Screen development support and has a much anticipated worldwide release in 2024.
Find Tsu Shan on social media:
LinkedIn: Tsu Shan Chambers | X (formerly Twitter): @tsushanchambers | Facebook: Tsu Shan Chambers
Adele Creighton | Head of Healthcare, Macquarie Bank
Adele is a financial specialist, with over 15 years of experience working in the banking and financial services industry. Adele is the national head of healthcare for Macquarie Business Banking, leading a successful team nationally. She is passionate about sharing invaluable insights with clients to help them grow, change, capture opportunities, and realise their value, aligned with owners’ objectives.
Adele regularly presents at industry seminars and is a regular contributor to sharing Macquarie’s Healthcare Perspective, featured on Healthtech podcasts and recently hosted an international panel at the Macquarie Australia conference presenting to ASX200 and large ASX investors around the future of Healthcare. She has been at the forefront of parental leave initiatives, and with two kids of her own, has a goal to assist and facilitate parents in her team to successfully return to work, whilst being able to balance both family life and their careers.
Adele holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Sydney University, with a double major in accounting and finance, and has completed her financial planning qualification, RG146.
Find Adele on social media:
LinkedIn: Adele Creighton
Michelle De Guia | Practice Business Manager, Hunter Eye Specialists
Michelle is a Practice and Business Manager of Hunter Street Eye Specialists based in Parramatta, NSW.
She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree and majored in Orthoptics at Sydney University, graduating in 1999.
She commenced as an Orthoptist in 2000 at Laser Vision Centre & Vision Eye Institute at Chatswood, joining Hunter Street Eye Specialists in 2007 as a Senior Orthoptist.
She commenced her role as the Practice Manager for Hunter Street Eye Specialists in 2013 and continues to date managing the business.
Find Michelle on social media:
LinkedIn: Michelle De Guia
Kerry Gallagher AM | Chief Executive Officer, Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Kerry is a respected medico-political adviser and government relations expert.
He has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Australia Medical Association Queensland and as Secretary General to Australian Medical Association.
In 2008, Kerry was awarded the Australian Medical Association President’s Award for “outstanding contribution towards fostering the objectives of the AMA”.
Kerry is a recognised builder and leader of result-focused teams, with more than 30 years’ experience as a manager of successful and respected organisations, in particular within the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Kerry has been awarded an Order of Australia medal for his efforts in the ADF.
Find Kerry on social media:
LinkedIn: Kerry Gallagher
Dr Mukesh Haikerwal AC | General Medical Practitioner
Mukesh is a General Medical Practitioner in Altona North in the West of Melbourne, Victoria in a group teaching and training practice where he has worked since 1991.
He is an Enterprise Honorary Professor at the University of Melbourne, sits on the Board of Melbourne Academic Centre for Health (MACH) and co-chairs its Primary Care Committee.
He has chaired the AMA Victoria Council until 2024, was formerly President (2001–2003) and Vice President of that organisation (1998–2001), as well as being the President of the National AMA from 2005–2007.
As Chair of Council of the World Medial Association, Mukesh was responsible for the international representation of the medical profession.
Mukesh is a passionate advocate for the use of technology in the health sector and has advised internationally, nationally and locally on heath matters. He was a Commissioner to the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission, National Clinical and Head of Clinical Leadership, Clinical Safety and Stakeholder Management in the National eHealth transition Authority, and formerly Chair of the AIHW.
In 2011, he was made an Officer in the Order of Australia, and in 2018, a Companion (AC) in the General Division of the Order of Australia for “eminent service to medical governance, administration, and technology, and to medicine, through leadership roles with a range of organisations, to education and the not-for-profit sector, and to the community of Western Melbourne".
His rapid response to COVID-19 by mounting local responses to the pandemic, including testing and vaccination, saw Mukesh advocate for his profession and community at the highest levels earning the Hobsons Bay Citizen of the year award in 2021.
He continues on the board of Brain Injury Australia, and the Australian General Practice Alliance (AGPA) in the Victorian Government’s GP Advisory Group.
Donna Glenn | Business Manager, Gordon Eye Surgery
Donna's current role has seen her manage a large multi-site ophthalmic private practice for more than 16 years after a career as an orthoptist and also co-owning her own accreditation and quality improvement consulting company.
Throughout her career, she has worked with industry peak bodies, is currently a NSW State representative for the Australian Association of Practice Managers, and is also the Chair of the RANZCO Professional Standards Committee.
Find Donna on social media:
LinkedIn: Donna Glenn
Dr Malvika Gupta | Ophthalmologist
Dr Malvika Gupta graduated from Delhi University, India with a Gold Medal for her proficiency in Ophthalmology.
She subsequently completed a Diploma and then Diplomate of National Board Degree in Ophthalmology, following which she was awarded a fellowship by the International Council of Ophthalmologists from London, UK in 2012.
Malvika also completed two years of advanced medical and surgical training in retinal diseases at Westmead Hospital, Sydney.
Malvika has worked extensively in general ophthalmology across various Victorian hospitals, including Western Health, Monash Health, and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital. This includes training in the management of complex cataracts, glaucoma, and minor oculoplastic disorders.
Having practised ophthalmology for over 18 years as a comprehensive ophthalmologist, and having performed over 15,000 eye surgeries, Malvika provides total eye care with special interests in complicated cataract and pterygium surgery, medical retinal diseases, and oculoplastic procedures of the eyelid.
Malvika is also actively involved in training next generation eye surgeons and holds public appointments at Northern Health and Lilydale Hospital (Yarra Ranges Health Services) and Alice Springs Hospital (Northern Territory).
She serves the Aboriginal community in the Northern Territory with outreach visits every quarter to Alice Springs Hospital and the bush sites. In addition, Malvika is one of the Chief Clinicians for the IDEAS Van in Victoria, Remote Outlook Project.
She has now joined hands with the AHHA team, visiting Cambodia every year to volunteer her time performing cataract surgeries for the locum community.
Malvika has a keen interest in writing and has authored over 30 articles in indexed ophthalmology journals and books.
She is an executive board member of the RANZCO Human Research and Ethics Committee. Malvika has also been appointed as Empanelled Advisor by Medical Panels Victoria to perform permanent impairment assessments in accordance with the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013 and Wrongs Act 1958.
Malvika holds fellowship of the College of Ophthalmologists in Australia and India, and is a member of ASO, which advocates for the rights and duties of ophthalmologists in Australia.
She has earned several young ophthalmologist grants to travel across Asia and Europe and participate in retinal disease summits.
In her free time, she enjoys nature walks with her young daughter, and together they are learning to play the piano and violin.
Dr Graham Hay-Smith | Ophthalmologist
Graham is currently a high-volume cataract and general ophthalmic surgeon with special interests in medical retina, uveitis, and glaucoma. He is the CEO of the Moreton Eye Group and the Moreton Day Hospital.
Dr Graham Hay-Smith read Human Sciences at St Catherine’s College, University of Oxford before studying Medicine at St George’s Hospital, University of London. His basic surgical training was completed at St Thomas’ Hospital, and his registrar training at Moorfields Eye Hospital.
He did a fellowship in medical retina and uveitis at the Western Eye Hospital and The Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, and was a research fellow at the Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, and in Tema, Ghana.
Graham has authored 21 peer-reviewed papers and international posters and presentations. He has also been a principle investigator on several national and international trials and participated in trials of innovative surgical devices.
He has been on several RANZCO committees, and currently sits on the scientific committee.
Prior to studying medicine, he was a stockbroker and an investment banker for five years. As a junior doctor, he was elected as a Councillor in the London Borough of Islington. Graham also served in the British Army reserve for 27 years before migrating to Australia and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.
In his spare time he enjoys old cars, competitive sailing — both inshore and offshore — and walking. He is married to the amazing Peggy, and has three wonderful children.
Shaun Jackson | Director, Inservio
Shaun has worked in the Pharmaceutical Industry and as a Pharmacist since 1994.
In 2003, Shaun was employed at Novartis in the ophthalmology division, responsible for managing Visudyne and later Lucentis.
In 2007, Shaun co-founded Inservio to support those specialists and patients wanting to access intravitreal medication on the PBS.
Matt Kelly | Chief Executive Officer, PresMed
Matt has been involved in the hospital industry for over 25 years and is currently the CEO of PresMed Australia — a day hospital group with facilities across New South Wales, ACT, and Tasmania.
Matt is passionate about person-centered care and the use of values to drive the culture of an organisation. He promotes empathy to ensure the best experience for patients and staff.
In 2019, he was one of the first Australians invited to speak at the world's leading Patient Experience Summit held by Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.
Matt's leadership and partnering with his team has been acknowledged in previous roles, with his hospitals winning awards. such as Outstanding Employer of Choice, Excellence in Innovation, and Business of the Year.
In 2019, Matt was awarded NSW Business Leader of the Year by the NSW Business Chamber, and named an Outstanding Employee for Luye Medical, an organisation of more than 7,000 employees.
Matt started his career in health as a Registered Nurse working in Newcastle and the UK. On returning to Australia, Matt worked in Intensive Care Units across Sydney in both clinical and management roles, before moving into executive roles in the public and private sectors.
Dr John Kennedy | Chair, Australian and New Zealand Eye Foundation
Dr John Kennedy is a senior ophthalmic surgeon and former head of the department of ophthalmology at St Vincents Hospital in Sydney. His private rooms are in St Vincents Clinic, specialising in cataract surgery. John is also a past chairman of the NSW branch of RANZCO.
Since May 2018 he has been the inaugural chairman of ANZEF, with a desire to promote philanthropy as one of our college’s core principles.
Brendan 'Japangardi' Kerin | Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC)
Brendan is a proud Aboriginal man whose cultural connections and two tribes are the Arrernte in Alice Springs, Northern Territory; and Barkindji, which covers the area from Lake Mungo all the way along the Murray River to Wilcannia.
His skin name is Japangardi.
Brendan is a talented artist, musician, storyteller and dancer. As an artist, Brendan again brings to life Dreamtime stories through the style of iconography or dot art.
Brendan is passionate and advocates for the environment and is a promoter of cross-cultural understanding.
He uses his traditional knowledge of the bush and Aboriginal culture to educate other Australians and international visitors alike.
Brendan was one of the original Discovery Rangers teaching culture, traditional bush medicines, and bush food when conducting tours around greater Sydney region and on Sydney harbour.
Not only is Brendan a talented artist, but an accomplished Yidaki player, performing for over twenty years both in educational settings and festivals. He passionately trains and coaches Aboriginal youth in culture and performance.
As a yidaki (didgeridoo) player Brendan brings to life Dreamtime stories and native animals. He gives a full interpretation of the yidaki, songs and the complexity of playing.
Brendan is a recognised and respected yidaki player amongst both non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal communities.
He has performed with both local artists James Morrison and Tommy Emmanuel, and international artists such as The Fugees, and Lauryn Hill.
Yidaki Didj & Dance and Descendance are just a few dance troupes that Brendan has performed with here and around the world.
Everyday Brendan lives and breathes his traditions and culture.
Michael Klim OAM | Olympic Gold-Medallist Australian Swimmer • Entrepreneur
At 18 years of age, Michael Klim was named Australian Swimming Rookie of the Year in 1995 as he embarked on his professional career.
Michael emerged on the world stage after winning a bronze medal in his first Olympic appearance in the 1996 Atlanta Games, and continued his rise in 1997, when he broke the world record in the 100m butterfly. The same year, Michael was awarded the World Swimmer of the Year at the age of 20.
At the 1998 FINA World Championships in Perth, Michael’s record haul of seven medals in seven events, including four gold, is one of the most outstanding performances by an Australian at an international swim meet.
Michael backed this performance up in the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur where again, he won seven medals, including four gold. Michael would also go on to be named Australian Swimmer of the Year.
The 2000 Sydney Olympic Games saw Michael star, winning two gold and two silver medals. He was instrumental in Australia’s thrilling 4 x 100m relay victory, unleashing a world record lead off swim to win his first gold on the first night. Michael later helped smash the world record in the 4 x 200m relay to win his second gold.
After a two-year break from swimming, prompted by injury, Michael returned to the sport during the 2004 Athens Games. One of three triple Olympians in the squad, Michael won his sixth medal as part of the 4x200m freestyle relay.
He continued his spectacular comeback at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, where he won gold in the men’s 4x100m medley relay, silver in the 4x100m freestyle relay and 100m butterfly and bronze in the 50m butterfly.
After retiring in 2007, Michael Klim returned to swimming in 2011 with the hope of reaching the 2012 London Olympics. After swimming impressively to reach the Semi-Finals in both the 100m Freestyle and 100m Butterfly at the Australian Championships in March 2012, Michael once again announced his retirement.
In 2020, Michael was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
Michael enjoys spending quality time with his partner and three children Stella, Rocco, and Frankie. He is a proud and dedicated father who focuses on having a strong work life balance across his family and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Michael’s charity affiliations include the Brainwave Foundation and the Polished Main Campaign.
Oliver Mayo | Director, Macquarie Private Bank
Oliver has been in the financial services industry for over 25 years, working in London, New York and Sydney for global banks including Macquarie, JPMorgan Chase, and Barclays Capital.
Oliver works in the award-winning Macquarie Private Bank that offers personal, business, and wealth management services and recently passed 15 years of service with Macquarie. In his role, he focuses on applying his deep institutional financial product and risk management knowledge to the challenges of high-net-wealth individuals and families. This is executed with a relentless focus on client outcomes and creating bespoke wealth management solutions across tax effective structuring, portfolio construction and asset allocation, wealth accumulation and protection, alternative investment strategies, generational wealth transfer and philanthropy.
With two daughters of his own, he's also passionate about diversity and inclusion and very proud to be a member of Macquarie’s Gender Equity Employee Network Group. We believe focusing on these issues is not only the right thing to do for our people, but it delivers better outcomes for our clients, shareholders and the wider community.
Find Oliver on social media:
LinkedIn: Oliver Mayo
Jason McHeyzer | National Director, Cosmetic Surgery and Compliance, Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
Jason is Ahpra’s National Director of Cosmetic Surgery and Compliance. The Cosmetic Surgery Enforcement Unit was established in response to the independent review into the regulation of medical practitioners who perform cosmetic surgery. The unit manages all cosmetic surgery related notifications and all advertising issues related to regulated health practitioners.
Jason also leads Ahpra’s Compliance function, which is responsible for monitoring health practitioners with restrictions on their registration.
Prior to joining Ahpra, Jason was a Senior Manager at the Civil Aviation Safety Authority following multiple roles as an Air Force Officer.
Find Jason on social media:
LinkedIn: Jason McHeyzer
Stephen Milgate | Chief Executive Officer, Council of Procedural Specialists • Australian Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Stephen has worked with the Australian medical profession for over 32 years. Graduating in Economics and Financial Studies from Macquarie University, he worked in private enterprise until 1991, when he met the late Dr Bruce Shepherd AM. As a result of this meeting, Stephen was invited to be involved in a number of organisations that Dr Shepherd had created during the 1984 doctors’ dispute. In these roles, Stephen has worked closely with medical leaders across all disciplines in the defence of the independence of medicine and the development of better health policy for all Australians.
Stephen is currently the CEO of the Australian Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Council of Procedural Specialists.
Stephen is the proud recipient of the Australian Defence Medal, the Bruce Shepherd Medal, an honorary fellowship of the Australian Orthopaedic Association, the Surgeon General John White Medal, and is a member of the Order of Australia.
Stephen is happily married to Susan, and they reside in Arncliffe, NSW. He has four sons and three grandchildren.
Arthur Miritis | General Manager, Apellis Australia & New Zealand
Arthur Miritis is an accomplished senior biopharmaceutical leader with over 20 years of industry experience across sales, marketing business development, and strategy. This includes the invaluable experience of most recently establishing and leading two US-based companies across Australia & New Zealand.
A track record of success, Arthur’s expertise includes strategy development and execution where he has had demonstrated success at a Global, National and Regional level in commercialising first to market medicines.
He has broad experience as a company Director and Secretary in both established companies, as well as in start-ups and held positions at Sanofi Genzyme, Biogen, Abbott and BMS.
Based in Melbourne, Arthur’s passion for business sees him currently undertaking an MBA at the Australian Institute of Business.
Dane Moloney | Head of Medical Technology Australia & New Zealand, ZEISS GROUP
A former graduate of the School of Orthoptics and Practice Manager of the Northern Laser Vison Centre, Dane has enjoyed a 16-year career at ZEISS holding sales, training and management positions in both Australia and USA.
The last six years he been responsible for the ZEISS Medical Division encompassing the sales, marketing, clinical application and technical service teams across Australia and New Zealand.
Divya Pahwa | Case Manager (Solicitor) at MDA National
Divya graduated in 2008 from the University of Technology with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Business. She spent eight years in private practice, predominantly in the field of medical negligence, and completed a Master of Health Law at the University of Sydney in 2013.
Prior to joining MDA, Divya worked at the Health Care Complaints Commission for seven years in the Investigations Division providing internal legal advice in respect of investigations.
In her role as a Medico-Legal Adviser, Divya assists members with coronial and other investigations, complaints, privacy issues, disciplinary matters and claims.
Dr Sue Pillans | Graphic Recorder
Dr Sue Pillans is a marine scientist, artist and children’s author/illustrator who specialises in creative and visual communications to help “Picture your ideas”.
As a graphic recorder, Sue draws out discussions and presentations in real-time to visually capture and convey information, ideas and concepts. Sue has worked with over 65 organisations across Australia and the South East Asian region using visual storytelling to help make the complex simple and the simple compelling.
Sue also combines her love of marine science and art to bring creativity into classrooms as her alter ego Dr Suzie Starfish.
As a children’s ‘Authorstrator’ her children’s picture books engage, educate and excite children about the wonders of the ocean. Sue’s creative thinking style and colourful nature helps to make learning visual and fun. You can see more of Sue’s visual storytelling on her website.
Find Sue on social media:
LinkedIn: Dr Sue Pillans | X (formerly Twitter): @suepillans | Instagram: @suepillans | Facebook: @drsuziestarfish
Dr Grant Raymond | President, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists
Dr Grant Raymond is currently President of RANZCO following three years as RANZCO Vice-President and Treasurer.
He was a RACE examiner for ten years, a previous Chair of the SA Branch, a former chair of the Professional Conduct Committee and has extensive experience working with not-for-profit Boards.
Fellowship trained in Retina, he is a former Head of the Medical Retina Service at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Medical Retina Fellowship Supervisor. He has trained retinal specialists from Nepal, Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, China, Spain, Russia and India.
He has been involved with voluntary aid work in Myanmar with Sight for All, in China as a visiting ophthalmologist for Lifeline Express and in Sri Lanka as an international examiner and invited lecturer. He is immediate past-President of the Royal Society for the Blind and continues on the Board.
A graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course, he is a director of Eye Consultants SA, with a sub-specialty retina practice.
In his spare time he enjoys golf, tennis and challenging bush walks.
Dr Jaya Reddy | Psychiatrist • Senior Lecturer, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne
Dr Jaya Reddy has been consulting since 2017 as a Consultant Psychiatrist in private practice at the Ramsay Clinic Albert Road, in Melbourne; and holds an academic appointment as a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne; with ongoing involvement in research projects incorporating clinical pharmaceutical trials.
Having trained in Malaysia, Jaya has a special interest in mood and anxiety disorders, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adult populations.
Within his clinical work, Jaya takes interest in the patient’s/person’s narrative and formulation of their life journey, which he believes provides the key to discovery, healing, and ultimately to empower individuals to build resilient factors and unleash their strengths in their individual search for meaning in their lives.
Jaya is passionate about interdisciplinary collaboration amongst practitioners and a growing interest in practitioner well-being in the health work-force. He is currently on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Professionals Network (MHPN), a not-for-profit organisation with a mission to enhance the cross-fostering of skills, knowledge, networking, whilst enabling practitioner support and well-being amongst its multidisciplinary health practitioner members across Australia.
Jaya completed his PhD in 2011 at the University of New South Wales, studying the psychological impact and genetic and personality trait risk factors for psychological comorbidity in adults with Type and Type II diabetes mellitus, and has published academic papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Jaya has worked as a Senior Lecturer at the Australian National University (ANU) from 2014–2017 in Canberra, whilst working as a Consultant Psychiatrist with the ACT Health Service between 2010–2017.
Jaya has had international experience working in trauma-affected regions in Iran (post-earthquake in Bam in 2004), and Sri Lanka (post-tsunami in 2005), as a member of a medical humanitarian psychosocial rehabilitation program with MERCY Malaysia.
Jaya enjoys reading narrative non-fiction works and watching biopics, in between walking the family dog and cycling. When not listening to or reading about people’s stories, Jaya plays the piano to keep anxiety at bay, having started lessons in recent years, passionately wearing Colourful Nordic Socks!
Katrina Ronne | General Manager of Policy & Strategy, Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Katrina oversees the operational activities of the ASO, from its systems and processes through to representation of the Society at conferences and scientific meetings.
Her role also centres on the development of policy and submissions to communicate the Society’s position on issues affecting ophthalmologists and their patients.
Katrina brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the areas of government advocacy and campaign development.
She has more than 10 years’ experience working in medico-political advocacy and policy development from within state government and representative organisations.
Katrina holds a Bachelor of Business majoring in Industrial Relations, and a Masters of Business Administration from Newcastle University.
Find Katrina on social media:
LinkedIn: Katrina Ronne
Dr Justin Sherwin | Board Director (Victoria), Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Dr Justin Sherwin is a Melbourne-based and Australian and UK-trained ophthalmologist with interest in cataract and lens-based refractive surgery.
He is the sole Director of Peninsula Eye Centre, Mornington and also practices at Bayside Eye Specialists and Vista Eyes Laser Clinic.
Following ophthalmology training at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne, he completed a fellowship in cataract and glaucoma surgery at Oxford Eye Hospital, UK.
He holds several postgraduate degrees, including a Master of Surgery and PhD both from the University of Cambridge, UK. In addition, he holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery and now lectures on this Course.
Justin is also a Director of Cambridge Australia Scholarships.
Find Justin on social media:
LinkedIn: Justin Sherwin
Joe Smith | Investment Adviser, Macquaire Private Bank
Joe has been working in the Australian financial services industry for 17 years.
In 2009, Joe founded an Australian-based online broker and managed the trading desk and operations until 2013.
Over the following years, Joe worked in various consulting roles with Morgan Stanley, as well as a Melbourne-based family office managing portfolios and developing investment strategies and trading infrastructure.
Joe has been part of the Macquarie Private Bank team for the last seven years, originally joining in a quantitative analyst capacity before moving on to an investment adviser role over the past six years.
Joe specialises in advising c-suite executives, family offices and high-net-worth individuals to achieve their goals and objectives across investments, generational wealth transfer, and philanthropy.
Joe has been ranked in the Barron’s Australia’s top 100 financial adviser awards for three years in a row (2021, 2022, 2023).
Find Joe on social media:
LinkedIn: Joe Smith
Penny Stewart | Cluster Franchise Head of Surgical Franchise & Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Alcon
Penny is the Cluster Franchise Head for Alcon’s Surgical Franchise and Alcon Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand.
She has more than 25 years of experience in the healthcare and medical devices industry, during which she has held various sales, marketing, and commercial leadership roles across diverse clinical segments with leading companies such as Abbott, Becton Dickinson, Phillips, and Roche Diagnostics. Before joining Alcon, she served as the General Manager of Abbott’s Structural Heart franchise.
Penny holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and a Masters in Applied Science in Pathology and Management. She began her career as a medical scientist in pathology and has since developed extensive clinical knowledge, combined with her commercial experience, which enables her to have a deep understanding and appreciation for clinically intensive products and therapies.
At Alcon, Penny will continue to uphold the company's outstanding reputation for customer centricity and excellence in product innovation in ocular care and health.
Find Penny on social media:
LinkedIn: Penny Stewart
Dr Peter Sumich | President, Australian Society of Ophthalmologists
Peter graduated with Honours from NSW University in 1990 and after residency he worked as an accredited emergency medicine registrar at Royal North Shore Hospital. He was awarded the Australian Medal in the Emergency Medicine Primary Exam. After four years of emergency medicine, he transferred to ophthalmic surgery and later graduated from Sydney Eye Hospital.
He was awarded the Sir Norman Rose travelling scholarship and in recognition of his high level of training to an international standard, the Royal British College of Ophthalmology granted him dual registration as a specialist eye surgeon in both Britain and Australia.
Peter is now a partner at Hunter Street Eye Specialists Parramatta.
Apart from his current Presidency of the ASO, Peter also sits on the Council of Procedural Specialists. He has served on the NSW State Ophthalmic Services Committee, the AMA Hospital Services Committee and currently the Medicare Advisory Committee at RANZCO.
Find Peter on social media:
X (formerly Twitter): @presidentaso
Blake Thomas | Country Manager Australia and New Zealand, Johnson & Johnson
Blake is passionate about improving patient outcomes and partnering with Ophthalmologists and service providers to deliver professional and clinical excellence.
As Country Manager, Blake has streamlined focus on IOL patient benefits and ease of surgical use, resulting in significant market share gains within monofocal and toric IOL segments. A renewed focus on equipment innovations has JJV placed for further impact across phaco and refractive portfolios in partnership with surgical customers.
Historically, Blake has worked in diverse environments including with large-scale customer datasets, online channels, new technologies and center-of-excellence teams.
In additional to public and private hospitals, Blake has worked in retail and pharmacy channels across ANZ and Asia. With a passion for innovation, data and technology, Blake enjoys finding new ways to address unmet needs, and finding creative ways to improve outcomes.
Blake has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and 19 years' experience with Johnson & Johnson.
Find Blake on social media:
LinkedIn: Blake Thomas
Claire Thurwood | National Chief Executive Officer, Ramsay Surgical Centres
Claire is the National Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ramsay Surgical Centres, which is the division of Ramsay Health Care that includes the day surgeries and small inpatient surgical hospitals.
Prior to this role, Claire has held multiple CEO roles at large acute private hospitals.
Claire is passionate about the shift of surgery into the ambulatory setting in Australia, and working with health professionals to innovate with regard to new models of care and progressive pathways.
Find Claire on social media:
LinkedIn: Claire Thurwood
Dr Geoff Toogood | Cardiologist • Founder, CrazySocks4Docs
Geoff is a Cardiologist from Melbourne.
He founded Crazysocks4docs in 2015 to create awareness about mental health issues in doctors after his own issues.
It has evolved to a global initiative, with the aims now to create awareness, advocacy and actions.
Outside medicine, Geoff has two daughters, is a volunteer surf life saver, and masters swimmer.
Tim Traill | Managing Director, Hobart Eye Surgeons
Tim (BSocSci, Juris Doctor, MAICD, MAAPM) currently serves as the Managing Director of Hobart Eye Surgeons, and has recently launched and become the Managing Director of the Hobart Eye Surgeons Day Surgery — a testament to his commitment to innovative medical administration and the advancement of day hospitals as an essential element in the delivery of safe, high quality, cost-efficient, patient centred care.
Holding a Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Social Science, Tim’s prior professional experience includes serving as the National Head of Legal Services at an international boutique law firm that specialised in employment law and industrial relations. As this was a uniquely structured membership-based law firm, Tim understands the importance of delivering value for members.
With a strong belief in the unique role of day hospitals as vital to the sustainability of the Australian healthcare system, Tim advocates for collaborative efforts with overnight facilities and the broader public health sector to enhance clinical outcomes.
David Walker | Surgical Marketing Manager, Bausch and Lomb (Australia and New Zealand)
David is a medical device business professional who has worked in the Australian market for over 20 years, spanning multiple therapy areas.
He has worked in the areas of sales, business development, general management and marketing in both small and large organisations.
David is currently the Surgical Marketing Manager for Bausch and Lomb in Australia and New Zealand.
