Every 65 minutes, an Australian loses part of their vision that could have been prevented. This World Sight Day, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is sounding the alarm: eye health can no longer be treated as an afterthought.

World Sight Day, today, 9th October, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about blindness, vision impairment, and the importance of good eye health.

“Sight is the sense that connects us to the world, yet so many Australians are at risk of losing it unnecessarily,” said ASO CEO Katrina Ronne.

“This World Sight Day is a wake-up call. Early detection saves sight, and sight saves independence, mobility, and quality of life.”

The 2025 theme, #LoveYourEyes, calls on everyone to make eye care a global priority — promoting accessible, available, and affordable services for all. The campaign inspires people to book an eye test, share their eye health stories, and advocate for stronger vision care policies.

“Looking after your eyes doesn’t have to be complicated. Book an eye exam once a year, eat plenty of dark leafy greens, colourful fruits and veggies, fish rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and healthy fats,” Mrs Ronne said.

“Don’t forget your sunnies when you’re outdoors, or protective eyewear when you’re working around dust, chemicals, or machinery.”

This year, the ASO is taking eye health awareness beyond the clinic and into the community with the launch of the Super Eye Socks, in partnership with Swanky Socks.

Originally designed for doctors as part of the Crazy Socks 4 Docs campaign, the socks are now available to the public, raising funds for the Australia and New Zealand Eye Foundation (ANZEF).

“The Super Eye Socks are cute, quirky and have become a fan favourite among our members.” Ms Ronne said.

“They’re a symbol of hope for ophthalmologists and for the future of eye care. Every pair sold helps fund initiatives that keep Australians seeing clearly, and they remind us that caring for patients and caring for practitioners must go hand in hand.”

The Super Eye Socks began their journey as part of the Crazy Socks 4 Docs campaign, which was a grassroots movement to break down the stigma around mental health in the medical profession. That message is stitched into every pair.

“While the socks now raise important funds for eye health, they also continue to champion mental wellbeing among doctors and healthcare workers,” Mrs Ronne said.

“It’s about sending a clear signal: looking after patients starts with looking after the people who care for them.”

With conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease rising, Australians are urged to book an eye check, talk to loved ones about their vision, and join the movement to protect sight.

“We want Australians to understand that vision loss is not inevitable. By supporting eye health, you are investing in your future and the well-being of generations to come,” Ms Ronne said.