George & Matilda Eyecare has announced its latest acquisition – Lighthouse Optometrists in Ramsgate, NSW – bringing the number of partnerships in 2024 to 34.
The NSW move comes hot on the heels of forays into Western Australia and Queensland, plus the acquisition of National Optical Care (NOC)’s 26-practice business in September.
Optometrist Ms Gina Basily has spent 13 years in the industry and started Lighthouse Optometrists in 2018.
“I’ve always been passionate about both medicine and retail, and optometry brings them together in a way that allows me to deliver a holistic approach to patient care,” she says.
Her practice’s reputation is built on a foundation of exceptional service, personalised treatment plans and a commitment to community health. It is renowned for innovative programs, such as the ‘Come and See’ initiative, which has helped to provide life-changing vision care to thousands of people overseas.
“We’re thrilled to join the George & Matilda Eyecare family,” says Basily. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of delivering the highest quality eyecare. By leveraging the resources and expertise of George & Matilda Eyecare, we can continue to grow and better serve our patients.”
The partnership with Basily’s practice follows G&M’s acquisition of three practices in Western Australia – Nedlands, Greenwood, and Kalgoorlie – and Main Beach and Sanctuary Cove in Queensland just two weeks before that.
Of the Western Australia acquisitions, a media release said: “This exciting partnership brings together some of the most dedicated and experienced optometrists, further strengthening George & Matilda’s presence in Australia.”
Mr Andrew Godfrey was the owner of the three WA practices.
“I like to think of our working life as a train journey,” he says. “For us, this is our stop. We had worked with George & Matilda before and were impressed with the systems and processes they have in place, knowing they can take care of our staff, patients, and practices.”
For optometrists considering their future, Godfrey offers insightful advice: “It’s easy to keep doing what you’re doing, but it’s important to look at the landscape and decide whether your future is best served through change.
“As Kenny Rogers said, ‘You’ve got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em.’”
Optometrist Ms Kathryn Jorgensen, at the Kalgoorlie practice, said: “I have been an optometrist for 37 years, and I chose this industry because I always wanted to work in a health-related field. I am proud of the quality eye care and products we offer, and we strive to go above and beyond to help our patients.”
Ms Natalie Guillon, the optometrist at the Nedlands practice, emphasises the importance of patient-focused care and added: “I love the variety that optometry offers, and I am passionate about providing thorough eye examinations. Our practice is known for our expertise in contact lenses.”
The media release said the latest partnerships underscored George & Matilda Eyecare’s commitment to supporting optometrists and their communities across Australia.
By joining the George & Matilda Eyecare, these practices gain access to resources, including marketing and operational support, business management tools, and professional development opportunities.
As the network continues to grow, patients can expect the same high standards of care, professionalism, and service that have become synonymous with George & Matilda Eyecare, it said.
More reading
Chris Beer unplugged on the future of George & Matilda optometry network
G&M announces the acquisition of two new practices, expands Queensland presence
Rolfe Optometry Group’s nine practices join George & Matilda
