Local businessman honoured with OAM

John Jackson, who ran an optometrist business in the Parramatta CBD from 1958, was recognised with a medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), in the Queen’s Birthday honours, for his service to the optical dispensing industry and his leadership roles in professional organisations. Mr Jackson has retired from the family business but still attends to customers in the shop in Macquarie Street. He said he has a “difficulty staying away”.

UWS wins research grants

University of Western Sydney researchers have received research funding of $2.1 million. The Australian Research Council (ARC) has awarded research grants to three UWS studies as part of the ARC Linkage funding scheme which promotes joint research with industry. ARC funding has been set at $745,796 for the projects, with industry partners contributing $1.4 million. One of the studies will develop advanced e-business technology which aims to enhance Australia's role in developing cutting edge e-business automation.