Issue 1 – Feb 2026

• Welcome Message from Congress President – Prof Andrew Chang

• Mark Your Calendar: APVRS Congress 2026 Key Dates

• Call for Abstract Submission – Deadline on March 31, 2026 (Tue)

• Prof. Yasuo Tano Travel Grant 2026

• About Gold Coast, Australia 

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

It is with great pleasure that we invite you to join us for the 19th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS) Congress, to be held on the beautiful Gold Coast, Australia, from 28–30 August 2026.

Australia is thrilled to welcome the APVRS Congress to our shores and to host this premier event on the iconic Gold Coast – a stunning destination that perfectly complements the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in our field.

As a proud member of the Asia-Pacific ophthalmic community, Australia has long championed regional cooperation, cutting-edge research, and lasting friendships in vitreo-retina and beyond. In 2026, we are committed to delivering an exceptional Congress that inspires, connects, and showcases the very best in vitreoretinal science and practice.

Under the inspiring theme “Where Retina Meets the Reef”, this retina-led Congress will deliberately extend its reach across subspecialties. The scientific program will seamlessly bridge vitreoretinal surgery with uveitis, ocular oncology, pediatric retina, and medical retina, while featuring cross-specialty sessions led by experts in cataract, cornea, paediatrics, oculoplastics, glaucoma, and neuro-ophthalmology.

In today’s complex clinical landscape, synergistic and integrated approach to eye care is essential — and this Congress is designed to foster exactly that, encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration for better patient outcomes.

Please mark your calendars and plan to join us on the Gold Coast in August 2026. We look forward to welcoming you warmly and creating unforgettable memories together.

Sincerely,

Andrew Chang
Congress President
19th APVRS Congress

Check out the important dates below and mark your calendar to ensure you don’t miss any of the events.

The abstract submission portal is open! Share your work with us by submitting your abstract now. For full details, please refer to the submission guidelines. This year, we’re welcoming abstracts across the following subspecialties:

• Retina (Medical)

• Retina (Surgical)

• Myopia

• Paediatrics

• Uveitis

• Ocular Oncology & Pathology 

• Ocular Imaging

• AI, Big Data and Registries 

• Glaucoma

• Cataract

• Cornea

• Neuro-Ophthalmology

• General Ophthalmology

• Oculoplastics

Click here to register today and take advantage of the early bird rates — don’t miss out.

We look forward to your participation and contributions to make this year’s Congress a success!

APVRS is pleased to offer up to 5 Prof. Yasuo Tano Travel Grant to young vitreoretinal specialists attending the 19th APVRS Congress in Gold Coast, Australia.

Priority will be given to applicants who are below 40 years old, from a developing country, and whose presentation(s) have been accepted as part of the Congress scientific program. Recipients who live outside of the Congress host country (Australia & New Zealand) will each be awarded US$500, whilst those from the Australia & New Zealand will receive US$250.

Applications for the APVRS Travel Grant will be accepted through March 9, 2026 (Monday).

You may complete the online application form available after logging in to the APVRS Congress system at https://congress.2026.apvrs.org/. Selection results will be announced by the end of May.

Discover the Gold Coast - Australia’s Playground by the Sea

Stretching across 57 kilometres of pristine coastline, the Gold Coast is famous for its sparkling surf beaches, vibrant atmosphere and relaxed Australian lifestyle. Just one hour south of Brisbane and serviced by Gold Coast Airport, it is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations for both domestic and international travellers.

Images provided by Experience Gold Coast

A City of Sun, Sand and Skyline

The Gold Coast enjoys a subtropical climate, with warm sunshine most of the year and mild evenings perfect for dining outdoors. Its iconic beachfront precinct, Surfers Paradise, blends high-rise skyline views with lively shopping, beachfront markets and oceanfront restaurants.

Beyond the beaches, visitors can experience Australia’s unique wildlife, theme parks, luxury shopping outlets and award-winning restaurants. For nature lovers, the nearby rainforests of Springbrook National Park and the Gold Coast Hinterland offer waterfalls, walking trails and breathtaking lookouts - all within an easy drive from the city.

Images provided by Experience Gold Coast

A Warm Australian Welcome

Originally home to the Yugambeh people, the Gold Coast has grown from a small coastal settlement into a dynamic international city known for its hospitality and safe, welcoming environment. English is the primary language, and the city is well-prepared for international visitors, with excellent infrastructure and visitor services.

Whether you choose to enjoy sunrise by the ocean, indulge in fresh Australian seafood, explore rainforest landscapes or simply relax by the beach, the Gold Coast offers an unforgettable Australian experience.

We look forward to welcoming you to APVRS - and to sharing the very best of the Gold Coast with you.

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