In association with a study of actinic skin disease, we undertook a comprehensive survey of ocular disease in a population sample of the town of Nambour, Queensland, Australia. Particular emphasis was placed on those diseases with a putative relationship to exposure to solar radiation. In addition to collecting prevalence data, a randomized controlled trial was commenced to determine, among other things, if daily ingestion of 30 mg of beta-carotene supplements reduces the incidence or progression of ocular diseases possibly related to solar radiation exposure. The study design, population and methodology of the study are described in detail as a background to the future reporting of the results. The study should provide unique epidemiological information about eye disease in an Australian community setting due to the representative nature of the subjects and the comprehensive examination performed.