Celebrating Excellence at the 2026 ODA Gala Evenings

The 2026 ODA National Excellence Awards were presented across two stylish events as part of the 2026 ODA Gala celebrations, held in Melbourne and Fremantle on 14 and 20 March respectively. Both evenings were vibrant and stylish, embracing this year’s theme, “GET FRAMED,” with guests showcasing their most extravagant and creative eyewear.

The ODA Gala is all about bringing people together to celebrate the optical dispensing profession and the individuals who make it so special. Over the years, the event has become a much-anticipated highlight on the industry calendar, and each year it continues to grow in size, energy and excitement.

This year marked a significant milestone for Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA). For the very first time, hosting two Gala events - one in Melbourne, Victoria, and another in Fremantle, Western Australia, allowing more members to attend without geographic constraints.

The strong attendance, which saw both events reach capacity, is a testament to the value optical dispensers bring to the industry and the vital role they play in eye care every day.

The key highlight of the Gala evenings, was of course the presentation of the ODA National Excellence Awards, which recognise and celebrate outstanding optical dispensers. The awards honour individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the profession and to the communities they serve. Each winner had been nominated and selected for demonstrating the core values reflected in their respective award categories - qualities that not only exemplify professional excellence but also highlight what makes optical dispensers such an important part of the optical industry.

The 2026 award winners were announced by Alycia Coupe, ODA Member Services Supervisor, in Melbourne, and Allyson Caffell, ODA Chairperson, in Fremantle. The awards were presented by April Petrusma, ODA CEO, together with award sponsors Tim McCann and Alex Rigby from Rodenstock.

The presentation of awards provided a fitting celebration of the passion, dedication, and professionalism that define optical dispensing across Australia.

THE 2026 RECIPIENTS ARE:

2026 CEO’s Member Dedication Award: Gladys Mak - Optical Dispenser and Rodenstock Sales Representative.

2026 Rookie of the Year Award: Noela Prasad - Trainee Optical Dispenser from George & Matilda Eyecare.

2026 Role Model & Leadership Award: Robert Cockerell - Retail Partner at Specsavers Devonport.

2026 Support Professional of the Year Award: Amelia Crulli - Customer Service Team Assistant Manager at HOYA Lens Australia.

2026 Community Champion Award: Nicole Grasso - Optical Dispenser at The Optical Co. and Trainer at ACOD.

2026 Outstanding Practice Owner Award: Sonya Broadhead - Owner of See Side Optical Thirroul.

2026 Exceptional Practice Team Award: Lake and Valley Optical in NSW.

2026 ODA National Medal for Optical Dispensing Excellence: Lyn Simeon - Manager at Teachers Eye Care Parramatta.