Optimum eye care in Logan and overseas
In a suburban office block behind a humble façade in the middle of Shailer Park is an optometrist’s office with some of the most cutting-edge technology on the market – and owners who have been in the eye care business for 40 years.
In that time, Rita and Adrian Thurston have always equipped their practice with the latest eye technology.
‘I’d rather get the latest piece of equipment than any other new trinket for myself,’ Rita says.
The couple’s passion for eye care has taken them to underdeveloped countries like Vanuatu on medical volunteering projects.
‘There are people there who rely on their eyesight to make a living who do not have access to good eye care. We can provide that to women who sew, for example, and it helps them do that without getting headaches,’ Rita says.
‘It’s a passion project for us to go there and provide that service.’
The trips overseas started when Rita and Adrian celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in 2009 in Vanuatu. They saw the need there and returned soon after with cases of glasses. Prior to that, they had worked in other countries.
‘In our best year we gave out 715 pairs of glasses,’ Adrian says.
Back home, Adrian’s background in technology means he is on hand to ensure their equipment is always in top condition.
‘There weren’t even computers when we started, apart from in big businesses like banks,’ Rita says.
‘We have always wanted to be on the cutting edge as far as being able to detect things as soon as possible for our customers. We have all the latest technology to detect eye problems early.’
The array of impressive machines in the offices of Rita Thurston Optometrist allows the team to detect glaucoma much earlier than other methods, to check the entire eyeball for issues and strain, and predict future issues for young people.
‘We have potentially saved hundreds of people from going blind when they get older, and we get people coming in with thank you cards and flowers and chocolates, to say thank you,’ Rita says.
‘People can have problems they may not pick up, and some equipment will not pick up, but our emphasis has always been on early detection.’
“We have always wanted to be on the cutting edge as far as being able to detect things as soon as possible for our customers.”
— Rita Thurston
Rita is passionate about working with children. She says it’s increasingly important for children to have their eyes tested, as more young people spend an increasing amount of time on screens, focusing on things close-up.
‘Sometimes, I have seen children who are discouraged from learning because they have eye problems that aren’t diagnosed so they aren’t learning well and it impacts their self esteem,’ she says.
‘When we can diagnose an issue and provide them with care or the right glasses it changes everything for them.
‘That’s why we are really particularly passionate about early intervention.’
Rita and Adrian credit their close-knit team for the ongoing success of their business and popularity with the community.
‘We have a great team, and when you travel to other places like we do, it helps to know the practice is in good hands,’ Rita says.
