The 2025 ODA National Excellence Awards were presented on the 7th March at The InterContinental Sydney as part of the annual ODA Gala evening. The formal event saw 300 local and international guests, fill the Boronia Ballroom to celebrate the optical dispensing profession.
The awards are designed to honour outstanding optical dispensers and celebrate the vital contribution they make to the industry and the important role they play within their workplace. There are six categories to be nominated for, with each one recognising specific achievements.
The winners of the awards had all been nominated and were selected because they demonstrate
a range of core values that not only fit the award category, but also makes them outstanding optical dispensers.
The 2025 awards were announced by Paul Clarke, ODA Chairperson and presented by April Petrusma, ODA CEO along with awards sponsor Todd Spencer, CR Labs CCO.
The recipients are:
Rookie of the Year
Rhian Hobbs from Wills Street Eyecare in Bendigo, Victoria.
Rhian has been described by colleagues as a fresh force in the optical industry who has become a vital and truly impressive member of their team. Included in their long list, the award nominator also described Rhian as enthusiastic, possessing a remarkable ability to absorb knowledge quickly and being an asset to their company.
CEO’s Member Dedication Award
Keren Peet from 20/20 Sight and Style Optometrists in Mornington, Victoria.
With over 26 years experience spanning both corporate and independent optical practices, including multi-site management, Keren embodies a wealth of knowledge and practical insight.
Her motivation stems from a desire to give back to an industry that has nurtured her career.
Keren is constantly investing in her own professional development, ensuring she remains at the forefront of industry best practice. Achieving an ODA CPD Currency Certificate for the year of 2024, her commitment to continuous growth is outstanding.
Outstanding Practice Owner Award
Barry Telfer from Angelo Street Optical in South Perth, Western Australia.
Barry has owned and managed his business for nearly two decades. Over that time, he has not only built a thriving practice but also significantly influenced the broader optical profession.
Barry possesses a unique and invaluable industry perspective, having previously navigated both the corporate and independent sides of the optical industry, along with serving a period teaching optical dispensing. His dedication to ethical and considerate business practices has recently earnt him the prestigious Pride in Workmanship Award from Rotary Australia.
Community Champion Award
Lyn Simeon from Teachers Health Centre in Parramatta, New South Wales.
Lyn has dedicated her life to serving others. During a career spanning over five decades in the optical industry, her passion for helping the underprivileged has shone brightly. Lyn has established a program to provide free eye examinations and glasses to asylum seekers and in 2024 she volunteered with the ODA Fiji Outreach Project. Her commitment to community extends way beyond her professional role, from being a respite foster carer, donating hair for cancer patients and being a regular plasma donor. Lyn is unwavering in her dedication to her community and the well-being of others.
Role Model & Leadership Award
Rayleen Tamblyn from ACOD and Specsavers in Erina, New South Wales.
Rayleen is the embodiment of leadership and a remarkable role model within our industry. Her achievements stand as a testament to the power of dedication and resilience. She navigates every situation with grace, poise and professionalism while seamlessly managing multiple demanding roles including nurturing a family. Rayleen is known as a beacon of support to others and always available to lend an ear or offer guidance. Whether it's managing a team in her busy practice or teaching and mentoring students throughout their optical dispensing studies, her ability to remain calm under pressure is a testament to her inner strength and exceptional self-management.
Adding to this, Rayleen also volunteered her time and expertise for the ODA 2024 Fiji Outreach Project.
ODA National Medal for Optical Dispensing Excellence
Dominique Jorgensen from The University of Western Australia Optometry and Vision Science School.
Dominique is an individual who embodies the very essence of dedication, innovation, and passion for the optical profession. With over a decade of experience in the field, she has seamlessly transitioned her expertise to academia, where she is inspiring the next generation of optometrists.
Dominques unique talent lies in her ability to make the complex world of optical dispensing accessible and engaging. She has transformed traditional teaching methods, redesigning workshops and practical sessions to foster a dynamic and enjoyable learning environment. Her dedication to creating a positive learning experience is evident in her meticulous preparation and willingness to go the extra mile. Dominique builds a strong relationship with students by actively listening to feedback and incorporating it into future sessions. She is a passionate advocate for optical dispensing by consistently highlighting its importance in conjunction with optometry.
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