Health Feature: Optometrist’s clear vision for local care

Sarah describes the practice’s approach as “whole-person” care. “We’re not just looking at eyes—we’re looking at how someone lives, what they need, and how we can help them see well and live well.”

When Sarah Wilson first walked into Wilson Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists as a receptionist more than a decade ago, she wasn’t just looking for work—she found her calling.

“I was studying optometry at the time, and this place just showed me what eye care could be,” Sarah said. “Everyone was so focused on looking after people, not just their prescriptions. That’s never left me.”

After qualifying in 2015, Sarah joined the practice as an optometrist under the mentorship of Geoffrey Fitzpatrick. In 2018 she became a partner, and by 2022, she took over sole ownership of the Nambour institution, which has been serving locals since 1984. “I’ve kept the same ethos,” she said. “We’re independently owned, so we’re not locked into any corporate models. That means we can spend time with our clients and recommend only what’s genuinely right for them.”

Sarah describes the practice’s approach as “whole-person” care. “We’re not just looking at eyes—we’re looking at how someone lives, what they need, and how we can help them see well and live well.”

Dry eye treatment and children’s eye health are particular areas of interest. “Dry eye is incredibly common and very disruptive,” she said. “We have the tools and experience to treat it, and it’s often a significant relief for our patients.”

Sarah also urges parents not to wait if they suspect their child has vision issues. “Kids won’t necessarily say something’s wrong—they might not even realise. But their learning depends on their vision. A test can make a world of difference.”

To meet the diverse needs of their patients, the practice offers a curated eyewear collection that balances style, quality and affordability. “We hand-pick every frame to make sure we’ve got something for everyone—from durable basics to bold designer looks,” Sarah said.

For Sarah, the joy is in the long-term relationships. “Some of the people I met on reception are still my patients today. That trust means everything.”

Frames that feel like you

Choosing new glasses can be overwhelming—but at Wilson Family Optometrists, it’s designed to feel easy, comfortable and even fun.

“We’ve curated our eyewear range carefully to suit all kinds of people,” said  Sarah. “From classic and practical to colourful and bold, we try to have frames that feel like you—not just something you settle for.”

Sarah and her team believe that eyewear should be an extension of your personality, not just a medical device. That’s why they’ve built a collection that combines form, function and affordability.

“Some people want something subtle for work, others want their glasses to make a statement—we understand that,” she said. “We’re here to help you find a pair that fits your face, your life and your budget.”

You can choose from brand names including RayBan, MauiJim, Nike, Guess, AuraFlex Titanium, Tomato Glasses, Dutz and more. 

The practice offers one-on-one styling support to help patients choose frames that complement their features and lifestyle. “It’s not about pushing stock. It’s about finding what suits you,” Sarah said.

• Wilson Family Optometrists (formerly Wilson Fitzpatrick Family Optometrists), is at 40 Howard Street, Nambour. Phone 5441 2277 or visit www.wfoptometry.com.au.