Local Eyes Optometrists is proudly owned and operated by Mackay locals Kelly Menzies and Rebecca Vella.


Experienced team of local eye care professionals

Our vision is to provide full-scope professional optometry services to the local community.

Kelly Menzies

Owner and Optometrist

  • Bachelor of Optometry, Honours (QUT)
    Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision
    Graduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics
    Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Credentialed Optometrist

  • Kelly has been working in the optical industry since 2005, starting out as an optical dispenser while studying at university. In 2008, Kelly graduated her Optometry degree at QUT with honours. Since that time she has worked as a fully qualified optometrist in Townsville, Swan Hill, and for the last 8 years, in her hometown of Mackay. Kelly has built a reputation for being professional, caring, and competent, and is well respected by both her colleagues and patients.

    Outside of the practice, Kelly loves cooking and spending time with her husband, two young (and active) boys.

Kylie Freiberg

Optometrist

  • Bachelor Of Optometry, Honours (QUT)

    Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision

    Advanced Certificate in Contact Lens Fitting

    Graduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics

    Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Credentialed Optometrist

  • Kylie is an experienced optometrist who thoroughly enjoys practising full-scope optometry.  Having graduated from QUT with first-class honours in 2002, Kylie has completed post-graduate studies in ocular therapeutics, paediatric eyecare, and advanced contact lens fittings.  She is also a CASA credentialed optometrist.  Kylie is passionate about providing excellent eyecare and achieving the optimal outcome for her patients.

    Outside of work, Kylie loves to spend time with her husband and three sons, and is actively involved in her sons' soccer and futsal teams.  She also enjoys running, reading and baking.

Rebecca Vella

Owner and Practice Manager

  • A Mackay local, working as an optical dispenser since 2001, Rebecca has over 20 years experience in the optical industry. With that, comes invaluable knowledge regarding optical and sunglass frames, lens materials and designs. Rebecca has a special interest in dispensing complex prescriptions, adjustments, frame repairs, and assisting patients with contact lens insertion, removal and care. With a genuine interest in advances within the optical industry, Rebecca is always looking for opportunities to further her knowledge and skills. Her professionalism and outstanding customer service builds strong relationships with both patients and suppliers.

    On the weekends Rebecca spends time with her husband Mick, and two teenage daughters on their cane farm 30km west of Mackay.

Ros

Optical Dispenser

  • With 17 years of experience, Ros is passionate about helping patients find the perfect eyewear to suit their prescription, lifestyle, and personal style. Ros loves being part of the Local Eyes team and supporting our optometrists to make every visit a smooth and enjoyable one.

    Outside of work, Ros enjoys spending quality time with her family, sharing good food and good wine with friends, and making the most of simple moments with the people she loves.

Natasha Westcott

Optometrist

  • Bachelor of Vision Science with Distinction (QUT)

    Master of Optometry with Distinction (QUT)

  • Natasha (Tash) was born and raised in Mackay on her family’s sugar cane farm. She started working in the optical industry as an optical dispenser while studying. After graduating from the Bachelor of Vision Science and Master of Optometry with distinction at QUT in 2021, she returned to Mackay. She enjoys all aspects of optometric care, especially building strong relationships with her patients and providing them with the highest quality care.

     

    Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family, friends and two beautiful blue cattle dogs.

Tara

Optical Dispenser

  • Tara has recently joined our team, bringing with her valuable experience from her time in the optical industry. She is drawn to independent optometry because of the focus on long-term patient care and clinical excellence. Tara takes pride in getting to know each patient and providing service that goes above and beyond expectations.

Experience for yourself our beautiful practice, amazing customer service, and highly qualified eye care advice.

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More about our practice on our blog Insight