Panoptic Vision

Panoptic Vision Panoptic Vision takes its name from the Greek word “panoptes”; meaning "seeing the whole". Early treatment means much better visual outcomes.

Panoptic Vision at Lake Cathie has qualified optometrists, optical dispensers, accredited vision therapists and stockist for beautiful eyewear serving Port Macquarie-Hastings Our thorough examinations provide the necessary time to investigate all aspects of your vision needs.
​
We proudly practice as locally-owned, independent optometrists. We offer our patients a very personalised, high quality, comprehensive vision examination. We continually invest in, and make available, state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to provide the highest quality of eyecare to our community.
​
In addition to services for all ages, we offer full-scope vision therapy programs for children’s vision and vision learning issues. Eyecare for Adults
Eye examinations are an important part of your health and well being. Adults should have their eyes tested annually to keep their prescriptions current and to check for early signs of developing eye disease. At Panoptic Vision, we have access to state-of-the-art imaging systems that offer an unobstructed view of the blood vessels of the eyes at high resolution. This enables us to detect early signs of chronic systemic conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension. Age 20 and above
After the age of 20, eyeballs usually stop growing and changing. Sight remains relatively stable from this time until the age of around 40 where most people experience problems with tasks up close. Younger adults not needing visual correction will rarely get their eyes checked. The increasing use of computers for studies and work can cause binocular vision issues (both eyes working together as a team). If not treated, this can lead to headaches, eyestrain, fatigue, increased error rates, and poor concentration and attention. Comprehensive assessment of the focussing and eye-aiming muscles will indicate whether the muscles systems are coping well or not. Early intervention often means simple, quick solutions can be provided, rather than waiting for major breakdowns in the system and the symptoms that come with it. Age 40 and above
Multifocal spectacles and contact lenses are for both clear distance and near vision. Eye health needs regular monitoring at all ages, but particularly after the age of 40. Family history of conditions such as macula degeneration and glaucoma become more relevant, and there are many signs of early changes that can be detected through a routine eye examination. Many systemic (whole body) conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can directly affect the back of the eye. Other conditions such as arthritis and anxiety can have ocular side effects from the medications for these conditions. After age 40, the internal focussing lens starts to harden (cataracts) and the focussing muscles have to work harder if clear near-vision is to be maintained. People tolerate this for a while but as the lens continues to harden, and the muscles have to work harder and harder, vision fatigue symptoms (as mentioned above) start to occur, ending in a blurred vision. Over about ten years, the lens becomes completely hardened and during this time, spectacle support for near vision is gradually increased to keep up. For some people who don't do much reading/computer work, they will notice that they will need an increase in their prescription every 2-3 years but for others who need to do work up close for many hours a day, they may need a change in their prescription more frequently. While the glasses themselves don't make the eyes worse, it is very true that the dependency on them increases. The internal lens will harden whether glasses are worn or not. Eye exercises can always help to keep the muscles strong and flexible, but the hardening lens will always end up pushing them past their physical limit.
​​
Age 60 and above
Cataracts are a normal age change that start to become noticeable when people reach their 60s with most having them removed in their 70s. The same focussing lens that hardens during your 40s gradually gets discoloured, yellowed and sometimes milky white, making your vision seem as though you are looking through a tint or dirty window. Cataracts are painless and often increase very gradually, so it is quite a surprise after one is removed and replaced with a new artificial lens to see how bright, colourful and clear the world now looks. There is about a 12-month wait list for cataract surgery in the public system and our monitoring of cataracts always takes this into account. An optometric eye examination will thoroughly assess the health of all the areas of the eye from front to back and if needed, a referral to an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) will be made. ​

How we can help
At Panoptic Vision, we have specialised equipment for taking digital images of the back of the eye, a topographer to map the front of the eye and to provide an extensive tear analysis for dry eye assessment, and computerised visual field analysis for detecting any peripheral vision problems as found in conditions such as glaucoma. If you have any eye health concerns, we will provide a thorough treatment or refer you to a specialist as necessary. Eyecare for Children

Development of Children's Eyesight
Babies are born with very limited vision. The first few years of life are critical in establishing good binocular vision (both eyes working together as a team). Many things can interrupt this and because both parents and children would be unaware of many of these problems, it is important to have regular check ups. Age 3 is a good time for an initial eye examination if there have been no previous signs of a problem (turned eye, clumsiness, squinting etc). Testing children's vision
Testing children's vision is painless and usually lots of fun for them! Many parents worry that due to communication problems, children won't be able to give reliable answers. Most of our testing involves "games" which don't require verbal answers. We use different targets at different distances, special lights which can measure the eye in many ways and, from as young as 6 months, we can assess eye health e.g. whether both eyes can see equally, move well together and whether the brain is processing vision normally for their age. The "big" chair isn't always needed. Many examinations for babies and toddlers end up happening on Mum's lap or even on the floor if that's where the child wants to be! Panoptic Vision is the first to use Children's Vision Auto Refractor
At Panoptic Vision we were the first in Australia to use a children's vision auto refractor. This is a hand-held device that is positioned a meter away from the child and all they need to do is look at the pretty coloured lights for two seconds. A reading of their refractive error (needed for prescription) and other important information regarding exact eye turn amounts is recorded. Technology never replaces traditional testing, but sometimes with tired toddlers who have been asleep in the car on the way to the appointment, 2 seconds at a time is all you have! Age 4 to 8
From age 4 to 8, children should continue to grow out of normal amounts of long sightedness. This is also when an enormous amount of visual processing develops. This is why we recommend annual checkups during this time. Many vision skills such as vision memory, sequencing, figure ground (judging the foreground from the background) and visual closure just to name a few, are all improving and are all needed for the complex task of learning to read. Sometimes children have a natural learning style that encourages some but not all of these vision skills to develop equally and so by the time they reach school age, they are not learning to read without compensations. This can lead to a struggle learning to read. There are many internationally used assessments that have been developed to test these skills and to provide developmental ages for each one. How we can help
At Panoptic Vision we offer a 90-minute Vision Processing Assessment which allows us to determine a child's visual learning strengths and weaknesses. If there is a problem, we can then offer vision therapy activities to improve those areas. Older school age children may also find that even after developing good reading skills, they may start to struggle with visual fatigue. Comprehensive assessment of the focussing and eye aiming muscles can determine whether spectacle support and/or vision therapy eye exercises can assist. School workloads are unpredictable and sometimes far exceed the comfort levels of eye muscles that were really only designed for hunting and gathering!

Autumn can bring more than cooler mornings — for some people it also brings eye discomfort.Seasonal changes can introduc...
26/03/2026

Autumn can bring more than cooler mornings — for some people it also brings eye discomfort.

Seasonal changes can introduce environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and dry air that may contribute to symptoms like itchy, watery, or irritated eyes.

In our latest blog, we explain:
• Common signs of autumn eye allergies
• Environmental factors that may trigger symptoms
• Practical steps that may help support eye comfort during the season
• When it may be helpful to seek professional advice

Understanding what may be affecting your eyes is the first step toward managing seasonal discomfort more effectively.

Read the full blog here:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/autumn-eye-allergies-symptoms-causes-and-when-to-seek-care

Autumn allergy season begins in March. Learn about itchy eyes, glaucoma awareness, World Optometry Week, and why early eye examinations matter. Book with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie or Bellingen.

March recognises the importance of regular eye care — at every stage of life.From World Glaucoma Week (March 8–14) to Wo...
22/03/2026

March recognises the importance of regular eye care — at every stage of life.

From World Glaucoma Week (March 8–14) to World Optometry Day (March 23) and World Optometry Week (March 22–28), this month highlights how routine eye examinations support long-term eye health.

Some eye conditions can develop gradually and may not present noticeable symptoms in early stages. Regular, comprehensive examinations allow changes to be monitored over time and support early awareness where needed.

Optometrists play an important role in:
• Assessing vision and eye health
• Monitoring changes over time
• Providing clear explanations
• Referring appropriately when required

At Panoptic Vision, we combine advanced imaging technology with thoughtful, personalised care to ensure every patient feels informed and supported.

March is a reminder that caring for your eyes is not just about vision clarity — it’s about long-term eye health.

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie:
https://www.myhealth1st.com.au/appointmentWidget/makatea?practice_id=9301

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Bellingen:
https://www.myhealth1st.com.au/appointmentWidget/makatea?practice_id=9310

An eye examination is about more than simply checking how clearly you see. Comprehensive eye care involves assessing the...
22/03/2026

An eye examination is about more than simply checking how clearly you see. Comprehensive eye care involves assessing the overall health of your eyes, understanding how your vision supports everyday activities, and monitoring changes over time.

Optometrists use a combination of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology to evaluate different aspects of eye health and visual function. These assessments help provide a clearer picture of how your eyes are performing and whether further monitoring or care may be needed.

World Optometry Week is an opportunity to recognise the important role optometry plays in supporting lifelong eye health.

To learn more about what comprehensive eye care really means, read our blog:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/world-optometry-week-what-comprehensive-eye-care-really-means

World Optometry Week recognises the role optometrists play in supporting eye health. Discover what happens during a comprehensive eye examination and why it matters.

19/03/2026

Autumn can bring more than cooler mornings — for some people it also brings eye discomfort.

Seasonal changes can introduce environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and dry air that may contribute to symptoms like itchy, watery, or irritated eyes.

In our latest blog, we explain:
• Common signs of autumn eye allergies
• Environmental factors that may trigger symptoms
• Practical steps that may help support eye comfort during the season
• When it may be helpful to seek professional advice

Understanding what may be affecting your eyes is the first step toward managing seasonal discomfort more effectively.

Read the full blog here:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/autumn-eye-allergies-symptoms-causes-and-when-to-seek-care

When glaucoma develops quietly, regular eye examinations matter.Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” bec...
17/03/2026

When glaucoma develops quietly, regular eye examinations matter.

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

In a recent consultation, one of our optometrists saw a gentleman who hadn’t had an eye examination for around 20 years. He had no particular concerns and came mainly because his wife encouraged him to have his eyes checked.

During the examination, advanced glaucoma was discovered in one eye, with changes beginning in the other. Because glaucoma can affect each eye at a different rate, the “good eye” can sometimes compensate, making changes difficult to notice.

Regular eye examinations allow optometrists to monitor eye health and detect changes that may not yet be obvious.

If it has been some time since your last eye examination, this story is a timely reminder of why routine checks are important.

Read the full story on our blog:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/when-glaucoma-develops-quietly-why-regular-eye-checks-can-protect-your-vision

Glaucoma can develop slowly without obvious symptoms. Learn how regular eye examinations help detect early changes and why routine checks are important for protecting long-term vision.

Glaucoma can progress gradually and may not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Because vision changes can ...
15/03/2026

Glaucoma can progress gradually and may not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Because vision changes can occur slowly, regular comprehensive eye examinations play an important role in monitoring eye health.

During an eye examination, optometrists assess both vision and the overall health of the eyes using a range of clinical tests and imaging technology. These assessments help detect changes that may not yet be obvious.

To learn more about glaucoma and why regular eye examinations matter, read our latest blog:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/world-glaucoma-week-why-early-detection-matters-for-long-term-eye-health

Glaucoma often develops without early symptoms. Learn why regular eye examinations and advanced imaging such as OCT help support early detection during World Glaucoma Week.

Autumn brings cooler air — and for some, itchy or irritated eyes.As seasons change, environmental factors such as pollen...
09/03/2026

Autumn brings cooler air — and for some, itchy or irritated eyes.

As seasons change, environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and wind can contribute to eye discomfort. You might notice watery eyes, redness, or sensitivity during this time of year.

Simple steps can help support eye comfort:
• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Wash hands regularly
• Consider protective eyewear outdoors
• Seek professional advice if symptoms persist

If your eyes feel different this season, a comprehensive eye examination can help ensure there are no underlying concerns and provide personalised guidance for managing visual comfort.

At Panoptic Vision, we take a careful and considered approach to eye health — especially during seasonal transitions.

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie:
https://www.myhealth1st.com.au/appointmentWidget/makatea?practice_id=9301

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Bellingen:
https://www.myhealth1st.com.au/appointmentWidget/makatea?practice_id=9310

When most people think about visiting an optometrist, they think about eyesight. Can you see clearly? Do you need glasse...
06/03/2026

When most people think about visiting an optometrist, they think about eyesight. Can you see clearly? Do you need glasses? Has your prescription changed? At Panoptic Vision, vision is understood very differently.

As the only independent optometry practice in Lake Cathie and one of very few behavioural optometry practices between Newcastle and the Gold Coast, Panoptic Vision looks beyond eyesight alone. This approach considers how the eyes, brain, body, work, play, and lifestyle all interact — because vision is not just about seeing, it is about how we function in the world.

➡️ Learn more here: https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/more-than-an-eye-test-why-panoptic-vision-is-different

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionLakeCathie

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Bellingen:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionBellingen

Dyslexia is a common learning difference that affects the ability to read and write. It is not caused by vision but is l...
24/02/2026

Dyslexia is a common learning difference that affects the ability to read and write. It is not caused by vision but is linked to how the brain processes written and spoken language. People with dyslexia may have difficulty recognising and working with sounds, which makes reading and spelling more challenging.

Read our blog to find out more: https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/vision-therapy-and-dyslexia-what-you-need-to-know

If you or your child is experiencing difficulties with reading, consider arranging a comprehensive eye examination to rule out co-existing vision issues as part of a broader assessment. This helps ensure that vision problems are not mistaken for dyslexia and that any coexisting issues are managed appropriately.

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionLakeCathie
👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Bellingen:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionBellingen

👁 February is AMD & Low Vision Awareness MonthAge-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vis...
19/02/2026

👁 February is AMD & Low Vision Awareness Month
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in Australians aged 60 and over.

What is AMD?
AMD affects the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision.

There are two main forms:
• Dry AMD – more common and usually slow progressing
• Wet AMD – less common and can progress more quickly

AMD can impact central vision, which is important for reading, recognising faces, and driving.

Supporting Your Eye Health
Small, consistent choices can make a difference over time:
✔ Have regular comprehensive eye examinations
✔ Be mindful of smoking habits, as smoking is a known risk factor
✔ Include leafy greens and antioxidant-rich foods in your diet
✔ Wear quality UV-protective sunglasses outdoors
✔ Manage blood pressure and general health

As we’ve shared in our summer vision blog, prolonged UV exposure may contribute to macular changes over time. Protecting your eyes in bright Australian conditions is a simple step towards long-term eye health.
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/how-to-protect-your-vision-during-the-summer

At Panoptic Vision, we use advanced retinal imaging and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to carefully assess and monitor the health of the macula.

If you are over 60, have a family history of AMD, or notice changes in your central vision, a comprehensive eye examination is important.

I love learning new things about the eyes and about health in general. Recently a patient taught ME something new about ...
17/02/2026

I love learning new things about the eyes and about health in general. Recently a patient taught ME something new about eye health - that Goji berries are good for the eyes. - Kelly Waterworth, Optometrist at Panoptic Vision Bellingen

Find out what Kelly learnt here:
https://www.panopticvision.com.au/post/what-goji-berries-taught-me-about-macular-health

Snippets from Kelly's blog:
"It turns out that the wonderful little Goji berry contains a pigment with a funny name - Zeaxanthin. In fact, no other known dietary source beats Goji berries in terms of its Zeaxanthin content. This pigment, along with another one called Lutein, helps to protect the macula, an area at the back of the eye responsible for our sharp, central vision. A small study in 2021 found that regularly eating small handfuls of Goji berries (28mg of Goji berries, 5 times a week in this study) may help prevent or delay the development of Age-related Macular Degeneration."

👁️ Regular eye tests are important in picking up on changes to the ocular health and discussing the best ways to look after YOUR eyes.

Here at Panoptic Vision, we make sure to look at your unique vision and health situation, LISTEN to what is important to you in terms of managing your eye health and offer tailor-made advice.

Explore the relationship between nutrition and eye health, including the role of pigments such as Zeaxanthin and Lutein in supporting the macula. Learn about Goji berries, leafy greens, omega-3 rich fish, and lifestyle habits that may contribute to healthy vision, as well as why regular eye examinat...

February is a timely reminder that vision needs change at every stage of life.As children head back to school, clear and...
16/02/2026

February is a timely reminder that vision needs change at every stage of life.

As children head back to school, clear and comfortable vision plays an important role in learning, reading, and classroom confidence. Subtle vision changes are not always obvious, which is why regular eye examinations are part of supporting children’s overall development.

February is also AMD and Low Vision Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of monitoring eye health as we age. Vision can change gradually over time, and early awareness allows people to better understand how their eyes are functioning and what support may be helpful.

At Panoptic Vision, we take the time to assess vision carefully and explain findings clearly, supporting families and individuals with thoughtful, personalised eye care across all life stages.

Whether it’s a child returning to the classroom or an adult prioritising long-term eye health, regular eye examinations remain an important part of looking after your vision.

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Lake Cathie:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionLakeCathie

👁️ Book your appointment online now with Panoptic Vision Bellingen:
https://bit.ly/BookingPanopticVisionBellingen

Address

Lake Cathie Medical Centre, 1459 Ocean Drive
Lake Cathie, NSW
2445

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+61265848900

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Panoptic Vision posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram

Our Story

STAFF PROFILES

Natasha Barnard-French - Behavioural Optometrist. Natasha graduated from optometry at UNSW in 1993 followed by a research masters (MSc) in the neuroscience of vision development and specific learning disorders such as dyslexia. She moved to Perth to work in specialty children's vision practices to help hone her clinical skills and experience. 5 years, a wedding and a 2 year old daughter later, Natasha received her fellowship from ACBO (Australiasian College of Behavioural Optometry).

10 years later Natasha found herself back on the east coast with 2 young daughters for what was supposed to be a 3 month visit to her parents in Laurieton. She has been happily settled in Laurieton since 2010.

Natasha is committed to providing quality vision assessment and solutions to people of all ages, and has a particular passion for assisting children with vision related learning difficulties. In whatever spare time she can find, Natasha enjoys playing flute in the local orchestra and playing the piano to accompany her daughter playing the violin.