OPTICIANS CONFER

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21423, 22 February 1933, Page 11

OPTICIANS CONFER

MEETING IN AUCKLAND VALUE OF THE INSTITUTE UNIFORM BASIS OF FEES The third annual conference of the Institute of Opticians of New Zealand (Incorporated) was opened in Auckland yesterday. The president, Mr. E. A. Sargent, of Wellington, presided over an attendance of 31 members from all parts of the Dominion. Mr. J. A. Peacock, of Auckland, on behalf of the local association of optometrists, extended a welcome to the visitors, and Mr. G. K. Neill, of Dunedin, replied. The conference was opened by the Mayor, Mr. G. W. Hutchison, who referred to the value of the institute to the profession. In a review of the year's work Mr. Sargent said the institute was growing steadily. The duties of membership included a high standard of work, together with a uniform basis of professional fees. A close analysis would reveal that there was still great call for the services of opticians, who did their share in assisting the less fortunate people. So far not a great deal had been accomplished in research work in New Zealand. It was hoped that as time went on the conferences would prove of greater educational value for members. The annual report showed a membership of 106, three joining during the year. It was reported that the essay competition had attracted record entries last year. The winner was Mr. Hugh Neill, of Dunedin, with Mr. H. Atkinson, junr., of Auckland, second, and Messrs. J. 0. Davis, of Wellington, and H. Spear, of Wellington, equal, third. Five contributions received special mention. Points for the McKinley Cup were as follows: Wellington, 285; Auckland, 255; and Otago, 75. Mr. Sargent presented the cup to Mr. G. E. Cox, chairman of the Wellington Association. It was decided that members of the institute should be entitled to use after their names the full words or equivalent letters of "Fellow of the Institute of Opticians of New Zealand, F. 1.0., N.Z., and that no other letters of the institute be permitted. Lectures were given in the afternoon by Mr. Howard Coverdale, opthalmic surgeon, and by Mr. Coutts Collett. A harbour excursion will follow the morning's business to-day. Visiting delegates will be entertained by the Auckland Association this evening and a visit will be made to the Blind Institute tomorrow afternoon.