After graduating in Optometry at the University of NSW, Sydney in 1975, Chris’ first job was working for an Optometrist in Forbes and West Wyalong. He enjoyed the experience of working in a small country town after having grown up on Sydney’s northern beaches.

In 1976 he left country NSW to travel and practise overseas, securing employment in a specialist contact lens practice in London. This experience reinforced his ongoing interest in contact lenses.

On his return to Australia he moved to Ballina to establish the first full-time independent Optometry practice in 1979, known as Chris Doe Optometry. At this time he was invited by a GP practice to conduct a weekly Optometry clinic from their rooms in Byron Bay. Over time this service developed into a branch practice of Chris Doe Optometrist, becoming the first full-time Optometry practice in Byron Bay in 1982.

By 1987 larger premises for Ballina were needed, therefore the practice was moved to 60 Tamar St, the present-day location of Ballina Optometry.

Nicola Sawyer joined the practice in 1993 and in 2011 assumed the role of principal. From that time the practice became known as Ballina Optometry. Chris continues to enjoy practising Optometry with Nicola and the team.