He is a wonderful addition to our optometrist team, bringing with him many years of experience in independent optical practices and his kind, calm and thorough patient care.  Being a Toowoomba local, some of our patient's may already know Ben, but for those of you who don't, we decided to interview him to learn a little bit more about him and his career.

How long have you been an optometrist? 

I have been an optometrist for 8 years now after graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Vision Science and Masters of Optometry from the Queensland University in Brisbane. After graduation I returned to my home town of Toowoomba where I have been working within a local independent optometry practice before recently joining the team at Somerville & Merrin. 

Why did you choose optometry for your career? 

When I was considering career pathways I had been drawn towards allied health as an opportunity to help people. Optometry appealed to me as it provides a marriage of my interests in maths and science. 

Why do you like working at an independent optometry practice? 

Working with an independent optometry practice allows me flexibility and choice. It allows me to provide more customised solutions to help people’s vision and improve not only their eyesight, but their quality of life. Independent optometry also provides opportunity to explore and practice more areas within optometry which keeps my work day varied and interesting. 

Do you have special areas of interest in optometry? 

I particularly enjoy contact lens fitting and the challenges that rigid contact lens and ortho-keratology can bring, where no two cases are the same. Because of this interest, I underwent a certificate in Advanced Contact Lenses in 2020 to further my knowledge and skill in prescribing and fitting specialty contact lenses. 

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

Generally, when I am not at work, you will find me spending time with my wife and young daughter. When presented with bit of spare time I enjoying being out in the garden or settling down with a good book. 

Benjamin Gambrill

Optometrist

To book your next regular eye examination with Ben or any of our Optometrists, you can call or click the "Book Now" button below.