About Us
Since 1999, Animal Eye Services has been dedicated to providing world-class eye care for pets. Founded by Drs Richard Smith and Mike Bernays, the practice began with a vision to offer specialised care and train future leaders in veterinary ophthalmology. While Dr. Smith has retired, Dr. Bernays continues the legacy alongside Drs James White, Tom Donnelly-Newton, Kaila Leidreiter, Sarah Richardson, Laura Gilbar, and Katy Hou. Together, they form a highly skilled team committed to improving the quality of life for pets through expert eye care.
What is Veterinary Ophthalmology?
Veterinary Ophthalmologists (VOs) are experts in diagnosing and treating eye diseases and vision issues across all animal species—except human primates!
Becoming a VO is no small feat. It starts with becoming a fully qualified veterinarian, followed by many years of additional rigorous training, research, and examinations to achieve specialist certification. These specialists dedicate their careers to one thing: protecting and restoring animals' vision.
Specialists in Eye Care
At Animal Eye Services, we are fully dedicated to the field of ophthalmology. Our focus is exclusively on diagnosing and treating eye conditions, ensuring that your pet receives expert care tailored to their vision needs.
While your pet is with us, we do not provide treatments outside of ophthalmology, as these are best handled by your trusted general veterinarian or specialists in other fields. This focused approach allows us to deliver the best possible outcomes for your pet's eye health.
Meet Our Veterinarians
BVSc.
MANZCVS (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
FANZCVS (Ophthalmology)
Director & Veterinary Ophthalmologist (Specialist)
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BVSc (hons) Cert AVP
MANZCVS (Medicine of Horses)
MRCVS
RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Equine Internal Medicine
Director & Veterinary Ophthalmology Registrar
BVSc.
FANZCVS (Ophthalmology)
​MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Veterinary Ophthalmologist (Specialist)
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Meet Our Nurses & Client Care Team
Amber
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Melyssa
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Madison
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
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Ashlee
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Sally
Veterinary Nurse & Client Care Representative
Carly
Client Care Representative
Dr James White
BVSc.
MANZCVS (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
FANZCVS (Ophthalmology)
Veterinary Ophthalmologist (Specialist)
Director
James graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2010 and began his career in small animal general practice after moving to Brisbane. In 2013, he commenced a formal residency program in Veterinary Ophthalmology through the Australian & New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS), guided by Specialist Ophthalmologist Dr. Mike Bernays. During this time, he achieved Membership of the ANZCVS in Small Animal Internal Medicine and, in 2019, earned Fellowship and Specialist Registration in Veterinary Ophthalmology.
James is known for his genuine care and dedication to both his patients and their families. He takes the time to understand the needs of every pet and owner, ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout their journey. His calm and approachable demeanor has made him a trusted partner to clients and referring veterinarians alike.
A published researcher, James has contributed to veterinary science with papers on topics such as feline entropion surgery and a rare canine eyelid condition, "sterile ulcerative pyogranulomatous blepharitis." His work on the latter received the Australian Small Animal Veterinarians Association's Atwell Award for Best Case Report in 2018.
At Animal Eye Services, James balances his passion for advancing veterinary ophthalmology with a commitment to providing exceptional care. His focus is on surgical cases with special interest in:
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Cataract surgery
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Eyelid surgery, including tumor removals, reconstructions, and entropion corrections
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Corneal and conjunctival grafts, for conditions like ruptured corneas, descemetoceles, sequestra, and melting ulcers
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Lens luxation surgery
James's blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care. He finds great reward in improving the lives of animals while building lasting relationships with the people who love them.
Dr Tom Donnelly-Newton
BVSc (hons)
Cert AVP
MANZCVS (Medicine of Horses)
MRCVS
RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Equine Internal Medicine
Veterinary Ophthalmology Registrar
Director
Tom graduated from the University of Liverpool, UK, in 2013 and began his career in equine practice, working across the UK, New Zealand, and Australia. During this time, he earned the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice in Equine Internal Medicine and became a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) in Medicine of Horses.
Tom’s fascination with ophthalmology was sparked by the complex and diverse equine eye cases he encountered in Queensland. This passion inspired him to transition into small animal practice, where he gained four years of experience in emergency and critical care before beginning his residency in Veterinary Ophthalmology in 2021. Now a co-director of Animal Eye Services, Tom brings his expertise and dedication to both patients and the future of veterinary ophthalmology.
Known for his approachable and caring demeanour, Tom excels in building strong relationships with clients and delivering compassionate care to his patients. He is equally committed to the Animal Eye Services team, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment as they work toward advancing the field of ophthalmology. His areas of special interest include:
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Corneal surgery, managing conditions such as ulcers, ruptures, and other corneal injuries
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Cataract surgery, restoring vision and improving quality of life for his patients
Tom is passionate about helping animals regain their vision and thrive, while also supporting their owners with clear communication and genuine care. His commitment to advancing veterinary ophthalmology is driven by a practical approach and a strong focus on teamwork and innovation.
Dr Michael E Bernays
BVSc
FANZCVS
Veterinary Ophthalmologist (Specialist)
Founder
Dr. Mike Bernays grew up on a cattle property in Gunnedah, NSW, and graduated with First Class Honours in Veterinary Science from the University of Sydney in 1979. He founded Sunnybank Hills Veterinary Clinic in Brisbane in 1983 and, after completing a Fellowship in Veterinary Ophthalmology in 1999, has devoted his career to advancing the field. Mike is a Registered Veterinary Specialist in Ophthalmology in Queensland, with a legacy of over two decades in full-time ophthalmology practice.
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Mike’s expertise spans a wide range of species, including domestic pets, horses, and exotics such as Komodo dragons and sea lions. He has published research on topics like cross-eyedness in white tigers and fungal infections in pets, presented internationally, and trained future ophthalmologists. As a former Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland and an examiner for advanced veterinary qualifications (Fellowships), Mike has shared his knowledge with students, general practitioners, and aspiring specialists.
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Previously a director at Animal Eye Services, Mike continues to serve as a senior ophthalmologist, contributing his vast experience to the team. He is a past president of the QLD Division of the Australian Veterinary Association and a member of numerous professional organizations, including the International Society of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.
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Beyond his veterinary career, Mike is a passionate pilot with nearly 3,000 flying hours, a talented musician, and an advocate for youth music programs, supporting the Queensland Youth Symphony Orchestra.
Dr Kaila Leidreiter
BVSc.
MANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Veterinary Ophthalmology Registrar
Kaila’s journey in veterinary care began at the age of 13, working as a kennel hand at her local vet. Her passion for animals has guided her ever since, taking her from caring for lion cubs in Zimbabwe to volunteering at Taronga Zoo's Veterinary and Quarantine Centre. She pursued her Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland, graduating with honours in 2013, all while working as a vet nurse on weekends throughout her studies.
Following graduation, Kaila completed a rotating internship with Veterinary Specialist Services, gaining invaluable experience across multiple disciplines, including surgery, internal medicine, and ophthalmology. Her time in small animal general practice further solidified her interest in ophthalmology, and her dedication to this field saw her spending her days off learning from the team at Animal Eye Services.
Now a valued member of the Animal Eye Services team, Kaila has recently completed the undertaking of a formal residency in ophthalmology through the Australian & New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists under the mentorship of Drs Mike Bernays and James White. Her genuine care for her patients and their families shines through in her thoughtful approach and dedication to providing the best outcomes for the animals she treats.
Outside of work, Kaila enjoys spending time with Anoki, her cheeky Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and honing her skills in silver jewelry making. Her warm and caring nature, combined with her drive to continuously learn and grow, make her an integral part of the Animal Eye Services team.
Dr Sarah Richardson
BVSc.
FANZCVS (Ophthalmology)
MANZCVS (Emergency & Critical Care)
Veterinary Ophthalmologist (Specialist)
Sarah grew up in Kenya and made the big move to Australia to pursue her passion for veterinary science. She graduated from the University of Queensland in 2012 with first-class honours and began her career in general practice. After two years, she completed a rotating internship at a specialist hospital, where she was exposed to a diverse range of cases and discovered her interest in pursuing further specialization. Following two years as an emergency vet, she obtained membership in the Australian & New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Emergency and Critical Care Medicine. In 2018, Sarah began her formal residency in Veterinary Ophthalmology, becoming a registered specialist in 2022.
Sarah is deeply invested in delivering the best outcomes for her patients and providing compassionate care to their families. Her focus on corneal surgery, alongside her expertise in a wide range of ophthalmic procedures, reflects her dedication to advancing the field and improving the quality of life for animals. Beyond her clinical role, Sarah brings invaluable insight into the business operations at Animal Eye Services, where her thoughtful opinions and contributions are highly valued by the team.
When she’s not at work, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, their German Shepherd cross, and tending to her thriving collection of plants. Her ability to balance professionalism, compassion, and collaboration makes her an integral part of the Animal Eye Services team.
Dr Laura Gilbar
BVSc. (Hons)
MANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Ophthalmology Resident
Laura graduated from the University of Queensland in 2020 with First Class Honours in Veterinary Science. She began her career with a Small Animal Rotating Internship at the Animal Referral Hospital, where she valued the opportunity to work across multiple disciplines and developed a deep appreciation for following patients through their journeys to recovery.
It was during her final-year rotations that Laura discovered her passion for ophthalmology. This interest guided her to complete an Ophthalmology Internship and begin a Residency at the Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre in 2022. She has since joined the Animal Eye Services team to continue her training, where her dedication and thoughtful approach are evident in every patient she treats.
Laura takes pride in making a genuine connection with her patients and their families, ensuring that each visit is as comfortable and supportive as possible. Her natural curiosity and drive to learn have made her a valued member of the team as she works to refine her expertise in ophthalmology.
Outside of work, Laura finds joy in running, baking, sewing, and spending time with her family at the beach. Her caring nature and commitment to improving animal health make her a wonderful addition to the Animal Eye Services team.
Dr Katy Hou
BVSc. (Hons)
Ophthalmology Intern
Katy started working as a junior veterinary nurse at her local clinic in high school, an experience which further confirmed her desire to become a veterinarian. She went on to graduate from the University of Queensland in 2019, where she discovered her interest in veterinary ophthalmology in her final year of studies.
Following graduation, Katy worked as a small animal general practitioner for 5 years before joining the Animal Eye Services team in 2024 to complete an internship in Veterinary Ophthalmology.
In her spare time Katy likes to crochet, tend to her overabundance of plants and spoil her very needy cats, Steggles and Beans.
Amber
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Amber's animal career began when she was 11 years old, when she begged a horse trail ride center to let her volunteer for them. Thirty years later she’s still in the industry and loving every minute of it!
She has completed Certificate two and Certificate three in Animal Studies (Veterinary Nursing) and the Advanced Diploma of Equine Management where she won the E.F.A. scholarship.
She has spent three years as a specialist horse vet nurse, and has worked in almost every role available in the horse industry. She also competed her own horses in E.F.A. Showjumping.
She began her ophthalmology career in Melbourne in 2000 where she spent three years at Animal Eye Care. She has since moved to sunny Brisbane where she has worked at Guide Dogs in the training department and has now been at Animal Eye Services for six years. She owns a spoiled corgi who she competes in Agility with, and two cats.
Melyssa
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
It all started when puppies used to follow Melyssa home from school; she knew then that she wanted
to work in the veterinary industry. Once Melyssa finished year 12 she began working at a veterinary
hospital in the outer suburbs of Melbourne.
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After 4 years Melyssa moved with her much-loved horse and dog to the hustle and bustle of Sydney.
While working in a veterinary hospital at Bondi Junction for six years, she achieved her advanced
certificate in veterinary nursing. She collected a menagerie of animals including her husband, and
moved to the warmer relaxed climate of Brisbane in 1999.
After working at a couple of veterinary hospitals in Brisbane, Melyssa took up a position with Animal
Eye Services as an Ophthalmic Nurse and has been with us for over twenty years. During this time
she has added to her menagerie with her son Cameron, many horses (two of which she competes
on), three dogs, two cats, three geese, multiple ducks, and chickens.
Madison
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Born and bred in Melbourne, Carly and her family relocated to country Victoria, where she was educated. Carly soon embraced country life and enjoyed playing netball, tennis and following the Western Bulldogs AFL team. She doted on her beloved dog, creatively named Spot, who literally followed her home from school one day and stayed for 12 years.
At the completion of her education, Carly traveled overseas and worked in London. She met her future husband there, who hailed from Brisbane and eventually settled here.
Her extensive work history included the areas of real estate, the health industry, and public relations. Carly has found her niche at Animal Eye Services and has never been happier in her role. A litter of puppies being brought in is her idea of heaven! Carly now shares her life with her husband Danny, children Layla and Jack and Border Collie Cruze.
Ashlee
Veterinary Ophthalmic Nurse
Ashlee grew up on the Far North Coast of NSW and has called Brisbane home since 2004. She has been a veterinary nurse for almost fifteen years, nine of which have been in the Ophthalmology field. Ashlee particularly enjoys anaesthesia, surgery, and is always finding new ways to expand her knowledge of eyes.
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In her spare time, Ashlee loves creating art, and enjoys spending time in the outdoors with her family.
Sally
Veterinary Nurse & Client Care Representative
Sally is one of two incredible Client Care Representatives at Animal Eye Services. She genuinely loves working with owners and our team to create the best outcome for each and every patient. With a Veterinary Nursing career spanning 20 years, along with her experience and qualification in Veterinary Practice Management, she brings a well-rounded, capable, and enthusiastic energy to the team.
Sally’s goal is and has always been to promote the health and well-being of all animals in her care. Over the years this has expanded to include the most positive experience for our clients, especially in the challenging times.
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As well as working with Animal Eye Services, Sally is also a Scout Leader with the Victoria Point Scout Group, loving the community spirit of Scouting and watching the youth develop into great leaders.
In addition to this, Sally is also an avid dog agility and nose work participant with her two little dogs, Marlo and Chisel. She loves being outdoors - camping, bush walking, road trips in her little beetle Moses. At home, it’s all snuggles with her very cuddly tabby, Teabag.
Carly
Client Care Representative
Born and bred in Melbourne, Carly and her family relocated to country Victoria, where she was educated. Carly soon embraced country life and enjoyed playing netball, tennis and following the Western Bulldogs AFL team. She doted on her beloved dog, creatively named Spot, who literally followed her home from school one day and stayed for 12 years.
At the completion of her education, Carly traveled overseas and worked in London. She met her future husband there, who hailed from Brisbane and eventually settled here.
Her extensive work history included the areas of real estate, the health industry, and public relations. Carly has found her niche at Animal Eye Services and has never been happier in her role. A litter of puppies being brought in is her idea of
heaven! Carly now shares her life with her husband Danny, children Layla and Jack and border collie Cruze.
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday - Thursday
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8:00 AM - 4:00PM
Friday
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OPENING HOURS
CONTACT US
Email: info@animaleye.com.au
Tel: 07 3341 1981 (Bookings For All Locations Are Taken Through This Number)