As Dr. John Farmer steps into retirement, after an extraordinary 46-year career, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the profound impact he has had on the field of optometry, his community, and beyond. His journey, marked by a deep sense of purpose, innovation, and a commitment to service, tells the story of a man who not only excelled in his profession but also used his skills to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals.

The Early Years: A Path Unplanned

Dr. Farmer’s career in optometry didn’t begin with a lifelong dream of eye care. In fact, it was a path he almost stumbled upon. In 1975, as a young man with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Dr. Farmer found himself contemplating his future. His desire to serve God and help others initially pointed him towards medicine, yet fate had different plans. After receiving borderline marks that placed him just outside the entry requirements for medical school, Dr. Farmer considered other options.

It was during a conversation with his father, who had been chasing him down a canoe trip along the Snowy River, that the idea of pursuing optometry was suggested. His father had spoken with a family friend whose daughter, an optometrist, recommended this path as a potential gateway to a medical career. Despite his initial response of, “What’s optometry?”, Dr. Farmer agreed to put it as his third preference, not realising how pivotal this decision would be.

For a time, Dr. Farmer felt lost, questioning the value of optometry and whether it aligned with his desire to make a significant impact. He even considered pursuing ministry work, wondering if his place in the world was elsewhere. However, his mother’s wise counsel, “You never know what God has in store for you,” resonated deeply. As it turned out, optometry would provide him with the perfect platform to fulfil his calling to serve.

Joining L&F Eyecare: A Partnership Rooted in Excellence

In 1978, Dr. Farmer joined Geoff Leunig, a decision that would define much of his professional life. He sought more than just a job; he wanted a career that would challenge him and allow him to make a real difference. At the time, the practice was 100 kilometres from Melbourne, which felt like a considerable distance, especially on the old single-lane highway. Yet, the opportunity to work with Geoff, a mentor who would become a lifelong friend, was too good to pass up.

The partnership of L&F Eyecare, which officially began in 1979, flourished over the next 45 years. Under Geoff’s mentorship, Dr. Farmer embraced a patient-first philosophy that became the bedrock of their practice. Geoff’s approach to optometry, which combined cutting-edge technology with a deep commitment to patient care, inspired Dr. Farmer to push the boundaries of what was possible in the field.

Over the years, Dr. Farmer witnessed and contributed to enormous changes in optometry. The practice evolved from using basic tools like direct ophthalmoscopy to embracing advanced technologies such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and widefield imaging. The introduction of therapeutic optometry, where Geoff and Ken Thomas were the first in Australia to be therapeutically endorsed, marked another significant milestone. Dr. Farmer’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the field ensured that L&F Eyecare remained a leader in optometry for decades.

Expanding Horizons: The PNG Connection

One of the most significant and enduring aspects of Dr. Farmer’s career has been his work in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This chapter of his life began in 1981 when he was introduced to the needs of rural communities in PNG through Ewan, a friend who had moved there to lecture at a theology college in Mt. Hagen. Ewan highlighted the dire need for eye care among the students and staff, which resonated with Dr. Farmer’s desire to serve those in need. Ian Rowse, a missionary in PNG, invited Geoff and John to visit PNG mission stations to provide much needed rural eyecare.

In 1982, Dr. Farmer made his first trip to PNG, embarking on what would become a life-changing experience. The month-long visit involved examining eyes across numerous mission stations, often in challenging conditions, from light plane flights to sleeping in grass huts. L&F Eyecare provided ready-made glasses where possible and custom-made others upon return to Australia. This work, although exhausting, was deeply fulfilling and underscored the tremendous need for eye care in remote regions.

“Judy accompanied me on my first trip in 1982, it was light plane flights with the kitchen sink on one trip, canoe trips down and up river, walking through mud floored jungle with people who spoke no English and we did not speak their language, sleeping in grass huts with outdoor loos, and an amazing adventure helping people in need… And Judy 5 months pregnant with our oldest at the time.”

Dr. Farmer’s commitment to PNG did not stop with a single trip. Over the next 13 years, he and his team made 17 trips to PNG, bringing eye care to some of the most isolated communities. At a time when few, if any, Australian optometrists were involved in overseas work, L&F Eyecare’s efforts were pioneering.

The PNG trips laid the foundation for a more structured approach to eye care in the region. In the early 1990s, Dr. Farmer began exploring the possibility of training local nurses to provide basic eye care services. This led to the development of eye nurse training programs, with the first 3 month course being run in 1994 in the PNG Highlands. Despite the logistical challenges, including transporting 250 kg of eye examination equipment and living in remote conditions, the program was a success. It equipped nurses with the skills and tools needed to make a significant impact in their communities.

Dr Farmer conducted annual conferences for these eye nurses with a second course run in 1997 and third course in 2001

“We all have a role to play in making the world a better place, in making a difference in the lives of those we live with, work with and interact with each day”

By 2002, the eye nurses trained by Dr. Farmer were seeing 15,000 patients per year, a testament to the effectiveness of the program. His efforts continued with the establishment of PNG Eye Care in 2008, a not-for-profit organisation that continues to provide low-cost glasses and eye care to thousands of people across the country. Today, PNG Eye Care is self-sufficient, a remarkable achievement that highlights Dr. Farmer’s commitment to sustainability and long-term impact.

A Career of Innovation and Contributions

Dr. Farmer’s career has been marked by a series of innovations that have left a lasting imprint on the field of optometry. One of his early contributions was the development of the internally illuminated version of the Logmar letter chart, which enabled better vision testing. Recognising the need for a more effective clinical tool, Dr. Farmer began manufacturing these internally illuminated charts in his shed, which soon became standard in university optometry schools and many private practices across Australia. This entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his commitment to advancing optometry, set the stage for further innovations.

In 1985, Dr. Farmer and Geoff introduced computerised practice management software to their practice, a ground-breaking move at the time. The original computer, (which was as big as a two drawer filing cabinet) was so loud it had to be housed in the men’s toilet at their Clark Maple practice. Recognising the potential of this technology, Dr Farmer and Geoff developed “Optomate” which Dr. Farmer helped market at optometry conferences for several years, before passing it on to Monkey Software for further development. “Optomate” has become one of the main optometry computer systems in Australia today. This early adoption of technology in practice management demonstrated Dr. Farmer’s foresight and willingness to embrace new tools to improve patient care.

Dr. Farmer’s inventive streak also led to the development of a binocular zoom ophthalmoscope in the 1990s. Inspired by a suggestion from a colleague, he secured grant funding to create a prototype, which included a lipstick camera for digital imaging. Although rapid advancements in digital imaging technology ultimately rendered the project unviable, it was an exciting venture that showcased Dr. Farmer’s creativity and determination to push the boundaries of what was possible in optometry.

A Legacy of Teaching and Mentorship

Throughout his career, Dr. Farmer has been deeply committed to education and mentorship, both in Australia and abroad. From 1987 to 1992, he served as a clinical supervisor for final-year optometry students at the University of Melbourne, a role he found incredibly rewarding. His passion for teaching extended beyond the university setting, as he frequently shared his knowledge and experience at conferences and workshops.

Dr. Farmer’s teaching efforts were particularly impactful in PNG, where he played a key role in developing eye care education programs. In 2010, he took on the role of Head of the Department of Eye Care at the Divine Word University in Madang, PNG. This position, funded by the Fred Hollows Foundation NZ, allowed him to formalise and expand the training of eye care professionals in the region. Living in PNG over the next two years, he led the one year Post Graduate Diploma in Eye Care program, teaching and mentoring three groups of students, two of whom graduated under his guidance. The program, which continues to this day, has been instrumental in improving the quality of eye care in PNG.

Dr. Farmer’s contributions to education were not limited to formal teaching roles. In 2013, he began mentoring final-year optometry students through the Judy Glover Scholarship, which provides students with the opportunity to deliver eye care in remote communities in far north Western Australia. Over five years, Dr. Farmer guided students on these trips, sharing his expertise and instilling in them the values of compassion and service that have defined his own career.

Major Milestones and Recognition

Dr. Farmer’s dedication to optometry and his contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. In 1995, he received the Ivor J. Lewis Memorial Award for outstanding contributions to optometry. This was followed by a Paul Harris Fellowship from the Rotary Club of Drouin in 2000, in recognition of his humanitarian work. In 2016, the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences at the University of Melbourne honoured him with the Alumnus Award, a fitting tribute to his lifelong commitment to the profession.

Perhaps the most significant recognition came in 2017, when Dr. Farmer was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his services to optometry and the community. This prestigious national honour reflects the breadth and depth of his contributions, not only to the field of optometry but also to the many lives he has touched through his work.

“Everything was not always easy and rosy. I am not without my shortcoming and failings and life as they say is not always easy. Living brings struggles as well as joys for all of us. I am grateful I have been supported when I have made mistakes and encouraged when the way forward has seemed particularly difficult.”

A Lasting Impact: The Future of Eye Care in PNG

As Dr. Farmer transitions into retirement, his work in PNG remains a central focus. He continues to contribute to the development of optometry in the country, particularly through his involvement in the establishment of a new Centre for Eye Health in Port Moresby, This state-of-the-art facility, currently under construction, will serve as a hub for eye care services and education, ensuring that the next generation of eye care professionals in PNG has access to the best possible training and resources. Dr Farmer is also leading the development of a Bachelor of Optometry degree at the University of PNG Medical School with plans to start its first students in 2026

In addition to his work on the Centre for Eye Health and the Optometry Degree program, Dr. Farmer remains actively involved in the development of eye care in PNG. His ongoing commitment to this cause reflects his deep sense of responsibility to the people of PNG, and his belief that everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances, deserves access to quality eye care.

Gratitude and Reflection: A Career Well-Lived

As he looks back on his career, Dr. Farmer is quick to express his gratitude to those who supported him along the way. His wife, Judy, has been a constant source of strength and encouragement, accompanying him on many of his trips to PNG and supporting him in all his endeavours. He is also deeply thankful to his colleagues, mentors, staff, and the many students he has had the privilege of teaching over the years.

Dr. Farmer’s story is one of faith, perseverance, and a profound commitment to helping others. It is a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of optometrists, both in Australia and around the world. As he steps into retirement, Dr. Farmer looks forward to spending more time with his family, including his children and grandchildren, and continuing his work in PNG, albeit at a slower pace.

“I hope to enjoy doing things a little slower and finding joy in the little things.

In a career filled with achievements, Dr. Farmer’s greatest accomplishment may well be the difference he has made in the lives of those he has served. His journey from a young man unsure of his path to a respected leader in his field is a testament to the power of faith, hard work, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. As Dr. Farmer himself would say, “You never know what God has in store for you.” For Dr. Farmer, what was in store was a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the world.