Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Congress being held?
Sunday 20 November 2011
Monday 21 November 2011
Tuesday 22 November 2011
Click here to view the Congress program.
Is there a Pre Congress Program?
Yes, there are meetings and workshops on Saturday 19 November:
ANSZRS Meeting
MIGA workshop
Alcon Registrars’ Club Program (ARC)
Overseas Development Workshop
For further information and to book, please click here to visit the Pre Congress program page.
Where is the Congress being held?
The Congress will be held at the National Convention Centre in Canberra.
National Convention Centre
31 Constitution Avenue
Canberra ACT 2601
T +61 2 6276 5200
Click here for further information on the National Convention Centre.
Is there parking at the conference?
Parking is available underneath the National Convention Centre for 260 cars, at a cost of $12.00 per day, with internal lift access from the top level. There is also a voucher public parking across the road.
Will there be a cloak room?
A cloak room will be available at the National Convention Centre. Please go to the National Convention Centre Reception Desk for further assistance.
What is the dress code for the conference?
Smart Casual attire is acceptable for attendance at conference sessions.
Will the sessions be recorded?
Some of the Congress program sessions taking place will be filmed and recorded. There will also be a photographer present over the course of the Congress who will be capturing images. Any images will be retained and used by RANZCO for their purposes (eg on website, in publications etc). If you have any issues with your photograph being taken or session recorded, please contact the Registration Desk.
Unauthorised photography, audio taping, video recording, digital taping or any other form of duplication is strictly prohibited during the Congress sessions.
What will the weather be like at the time of the congress?
In November, it will be Spring time in Canberra with temperatures as per below:
| Season | Average Min* | Average Max* |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 6 (40) | 19 (66) |
* Degrees Celsius (Degrees Fahrenheit in brackets)
It is advisable to bring light clothing and a jacket/jumper for the evenings.
How do I get to Canberra?
Flying to Canberra
International flights
Fly into an interstate airport such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, then take a domestic flight to Canberra.
Domestic flights
Choose from Brindabella Airlines, Qantas, Tiger Airways and Virgin Blue.
Brindabella Airlines
Brindabella Airlines will fly you between Albury, Canberra, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Brisbane. Brindabella Airlines is a Qantas affiliate airline so you can earn or redeem Qantas frequent flyer points on all flights.
Visit www.brindabellaairlines.com.au
Corporate Air
Corporate Air offers the widest range of charter aircraft based in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and the surrounding regions.
Visit www.corporate-air.com.au
Qantas
Qantas has regular flights to Canberra from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
Visit www.qantas.com.au
Virgin Blue
Virgin Blue Airlines strives to reduce the cost and confusion of air travel. Their aim is to make flying in Australia a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Visit www.virginblue.com.au
Canberra Airport
Need information about getting to and from Canberra Airport? Want to know about transfers, parking or terminal layout?
Visit the Canberra Airport website
Getting to the National Convention Centre
With a comprehensive range of air, bus and rail services, travelling to Canberra and the exhibition centre is easy.
Once in Canberra, visitors can ride on ACTION buses, catch a taxi or drive themselves on the Australian Capital Territory’s efficient road network. Delegates will find that Canberra is a straightforward and stress-free city to drive around.
Click on the links below for details:
Do I need a VISA?
All visitors to Australia must have a valid visa before boarding their plane regardless of the length of stay. All international delegates, apart from New Zealand citizens, must obtain a Visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before travelling to Australia.
Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is an electronically-stored authority for travel to Australia for a short-term tourist or business entry. ETAs are issued within seconds of being requested through computer links between the Australian Immigration Department, travel agents, airlines and specialist service providers around the world. Over 30 countries around the world have access to the free ETA system.
Conference delegates from non-ETA countries will need to obtain a Business (short stay) visa, even if some tourism activities are planned for part of the stay in Australia. It is called a 456 visa if it is issued as a label into a passport. Details are available from the Australian Department of Immigration website (www.immi.gov.au ) for more information
Please ensure you organise your documentation well in advance of travel. As visa processing times may vary, you are encouraged to apply for the appropriate visa 6-8 weeks before your departure to Australia. Your passport must be valid for the period of your intended stay in Australia.
Please note that in order to be granted a visa to visit Australia you must demonstrate that you meet ALL the legislative requirements for visa grant.
For further information about visa applications please visit:
- Department of Immigration – General: www.immi.gov.au/visitors
- General Information: www.immi.gov.au/visitors/event-organisers-participants
- ETA Application: www.eta.immi.gov.au
How much does it cost to register for the congress?
Click here for further information on registration fees and how to register. Do the registration fees include insurance? Registration fees do not include insurance coverage of any kind. Delegates are strongly advised to secure appropriate travel and health insurance. Conference managers cannot accept responsibility for any delegate failing to cover their own insurance.Can I register onsite?
Yes, registrations will be accepted onsite. However we recommend registering prior to the conference so that your name badge and delegate pack will be waiting for you on arrival. Full payment will be required by bank cheque, credit card or cash for onsite registrations.
What happens if I haven’t paid at the time of the conference?
You will be asked to supply a credit card to secure payment prior to receiving your name badge and delegate satchel.
What are my entitlements as a delegate?
Full Registration
- Attendance to Congress sessions from Sunday 20 November to Tuesday 22 November 2011
- Lunch, morning and afternoon teas on Sunday 20 November, and Monday 21 November
- Morning tea on Tuesday 22 November
- Congress satchel and delegate materials
- Opening Ceremony and President’s Reception on Sunday 20 November
Day Registration
- Lunch, morning and afternoon teas on the day of the registration (only morning tea on Tuesday)
- Congress satchel and delegate materials
- Opening Ceremony and President’s Reception on Sunday 20 November
Accompanying Persons
- Morning/afternoon teas and lunch on Sunday and Monday
- Morning tea on Tuesday
- Opening Ceremony and President’s Reception on Sunday 20 November
How do I book accommodation?
Accommodation bookings must now be made directly with the hotels. Click here for contact details. You can mention that you are a delegate at the RANZCO Congress, but please note that the congress rate may not be guaranteed – it is at the discretion of the hotel at this stage.
Click here for further details and contacts for the hotels and apartments sourced by the Conference Office for their value and proximity to the conference venue.
When does the registration desk open?
The RANZCO 2011 Congress Registration and information Desk will be located in the Ground Floor Foyer and will operate during the following hours:
Saturday 19th November 2011 1400 – 1800
Sunday 20th November 2011 0700 – 1730
Monday 21st November 2011 0700 – 1730
Tuesday 22nd November 2011 0700 – 1300
Is catering provided?
Sunday – Morning Tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea will be provided
Monday - Morning Tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea will be provided
Tuesday – Morning Tea only will be provided
If you have not already done so on your registration form, please advise the Congress Office if you have any dietary requirements - via email at ranzco2011@thinkbusinessevents.com.au
How do I get a tax invoice?
If you registered online, you are able to enter your registration by clicking on ‘Previously Registered’ button, enter your Access key and select Login. There you can download your tax invoice. Otherwise please contact the Conference Organisers at:
Think Business Events
Level 1, 299 Elizabeth St
Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: 02 8251 0045
Fax: 02 8251 0097
Email: ranzco2011@thinkbusinessevents.com.au
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellations received in writing at the Congress Office by 13th October 2011 will be accepted and all fees refunded less an AUD$100 administrative fee. Changes to registration from a full registration to a day registration will also incur an administrative fee of AUD$25.
Cancellations received after 13th October 2011 cannot be accepted and will not be refunded, however transfer of your registration to another person is acceptable. The full name and details of the person that will replace you must be advised in writing to the Congress Office prior to the Congress.
No refunds will be made for non-attendance at the Congress.
Cancellations for Social Events received in writing at the Congress Office by 13th October 2011 will be accepted and all costs refunded. Cancellations received after this date cannot be accepted and will not be refunded.
What are the social functions?
Welcome Reception
| Date | Saturday, 19 November 2011 |
|---|---|
| Time | 6pm Gallery Highlights Guided Tour 7pm drinks and canapés |
| Venue | Australian War Memorial |
| Tickets | $75 per person |
| Dress Code | Smart casual |
To attend the Gallery Highlights Guided Tour prior to the Welcome Reception, please complete on the registration form where indicated.
Opening Ceremony & President’s Reception
This event is included in the Registration fee (for full delegates, Accompanying Person delegates and Sunday delegates). If you require additional tickets, they must be purchased by selecting this on your registration form or emailing the Congress Office at ranzco2011@thinkbusinessevents.com.au
| Date | Sunday, 20 November 2011 |
|---|---|
| Time | 7pm – 10pm |
| Venue | Parliament House |
| Tickets | Inclusive for full delegate registration and accompanying person registration / Additional tickets available at $75.00 |
| Dress Code | Business attire and academic dress (if applicable) |
Congress Dinner
| Date | Monday, 21 November 2011 |
|---|---|
| Time | 6.30pm Self-Guided Tour 7.15pm – late: Drinks and three course sit down meal |
| Venue | National Portrait Gallery |
| Address | King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600 |
| Tickets | $150 per person |
| Dress Code | Black tie or dark lounge suit |
*Tickets are limited
Please click here for further information on the Social Functions.
How does the smart phone app work?
Download the RANZCO11 app to make information about the Congress speakers, program and industry exhibition details accessible in the palm of your hand. The app will allow you to find speakers and sessions related to your specific area of interest, create a personalised schedule of your Congress sessions, share your calendar with friends, take notes and provide instant ratings on sessions. The app is available on all internet ready mobile phones including iPhone, Android, Blackberry and iPad. The app will also send you alerts about activities happening during the Congress such as the social events and industry breakfasts.
Where is the Speaker’s Preparation room?
The Speakers Preparation Room will be located in the Green Room on Level 1. All speakers are required to check in at the Speakers’ Preparation room at least 2 hours prior to their session, or the day prior, even if you have already submitted your presentation previously to the AV technicians. This will ensure their presentation can be opened and loaded onto the Congress computer system. All final adjustments can be made at this time and updated files can be re-submitted at this stage.
The Speakers’ Preparation Room will open during the following times:
Saturday 19 November 2011: 3pm – 6pm
Sunday 20 November 2011: 7am – 5.30pm
Monday 21 November 2011: 7am – 5.30pm
Tuesday 22 November 2011: 7am – 1pm
As a presenter, what information do I need to prepare my powerpoint?
To assist you with the planning of your powerpoint presentation, please read the Information for Presenter’s that can be downloaded here
Your powerpoint must be forwarded to the AV team at Kjohnson@stagingconnections.com prior to the Congress so that the presentation can be opened and loaded onto the Congress computer system prior to your arrival.
As a poster presenter, what information do I need to organise my poster?
- Register for the Congress by clicking here
- Check the poster program to ensure that your poster title and presenter are correct
- To assist you with the preparation of your poster (size, dimensions etc) please read the Poster Information that can be downloaded here
- Once your poster has been designed, you are welcome to use the appointed poster printer and they will arrange for delivery to the Convention Centre. Costs and timeframes will vary depending on final requirements including laminating, graphic design and Velcro attachments.
For further details, please contact Kwik Kopy on the details below and mention RANZCO.
Kwik Kopy Corporate Design & Print Centre
Lower Ground Floor, Ethos House
28-36 Ainslie Place
Canberra City
Tel: (02) 6243 6066
Fax: (02) 6257 4239
Email: print@canberra.kwikkopy.com.au
The Posters will be located in the Ground Floor Foyer and are to be set up by Sunday 10am. They will be displayed in this area for the duration of the Congress. Authors will be present to respond to delegates’ questions as available during morning and afternoon tea, and lunch breaks throughout the Congress as well as during the Poster Presentation Session. The Poster Presentation Session will take place on Monday from 12pm – 12.30pm.
As an industry exhibitor, when do I set up my booth?
Exhibitor Set up is: from 1:30pm on Saturday and the Centre will close at 9pm on Saturday.
Access for custom builders will be no earlier than 10am Saturday.
Please note that the Centre does NOT HAVE A FORK LIFT so ensure your deliveries are made with a truck that has a hydraulic lift tail gate.
When will the venue accept our goods?
The venue will accept product deliveries on Thursday and Friday prior to the Congress. Please contact the Congress Office if you require a Delivery Label.
When do we pack down?
Pull down can commence at the conclusion of morning tea and the hall must be cleared by 9pm Tuesday.
Where will the industry exhibition be held and what are the opening times?
The exhibition will be held in the exhibition hall of the National Convention Centre. Take the opportunity to visit our exhibitors who have supported the RANZCO 2011 Congress in showcasing the latest products and services.
The exhibition will be open at the following times:
Sunday 20 November 2011 0800 – 1800
Monday 21 November 2011 0800 – 1800
Tuesday 2 November 2011 0800 – 1030
Who are the invited speakers?
This year’s scientific program will include addresses from the following:
- Dr Stephen Best
- Professor Elizabeth Engle
- Associate Professor Justine Smith
- Professor Jill Keeffe OAM
- Dr Wilson Heriot
- Professor John Dart
- Professor James Brandt
- Professor Roger Steinert
For further information on the invited speakers, please click here
What is the Pfizer Film Festival about?
The Pfizer Ophthalmic Film Festival will run continuously at the Pfizer Booth during the Congress. Each film is a succinct 5 minutes and topics include challenging cases; surgical complications and their management; new techniques and devices; and community ophthalmology. The films will be judged and a Prize will be awarded for the best film.
What are the other meetings?
SUNDAY 20 NOVEMBER
0830 – 1630 Orthoptics Australia Meeting Menzies Theatrette
0830 – 1630 Practice Manager’s Meeting Nicholls Theatrette
0830 – 1730 AOVSM Sutherland Theatrette
MONDAY 21 NOVEMBER
0845 – 1700 Orthoptics Australia Meeting Menzies Theatrette
0830 – 1700 Practice Manager’s Meeting Nicholls Theatrette
0830 – 1730 AOVSM Sutherland Theatrette
TUESDAY 22 NOVEMBER
0830 – 1230 Orthoptics Australia Meeting Menzies Theatrette
0830 – 1300 Practice Manager’s Meeting Nicholls Theatrette
Please click here for further information on the AOVSM meeting
Please click here for further information on the Practice Manager’s Meeting
Please click here for the Orthoptics Australia Meeting
Are there are tours on offer?
Link Tours Pty Ltd has been appointed to manage the tours program for the RANZCO Congress. Tours are not included in the registration fee and are to be paid for separately.
Additionally, Link Tours can also advise you on special tailored packages to suit your specific needs.
Tours on offer include:
Day Tours
- Hot Air Balloon Flight – Daily
- Canberra Highlights – Saturday November 19
- Wine Tour – Sunday November 20
- Steam Train to Bungendore Market – Sunday November 20
- The Scientific and Sporting Side of Canberra – Monday November 21
- Botanic Gardens Ramble – Tuesday November 22
Booking and payment for the tours are to be made with:
Link Tours Pty Ltd
294 Montague Street
South Melbourne, VIC 3205, Australia
Phone: 61+3+9699-8422
Fax: 61+3+9690-2902
Email: info@linktours.com.au
Http: www.linktours.com.au
Tours require minimum numbers to operate and should these minimum numbers not be reached, the tour may be cancelled. Any payments made for cancelled tours will be refunded in full.
How do I contact the congress organisers?
Congress Office:
Think Business Events
Level 1, 299 Elizabeth St
Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: 02 8251 0045
Fax: 02 8251 0097
Email: ranzco2011@thinkbusinessevents.com.au
