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50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Optometrist in Manly, NSW
Ian Donald Optometrist has been a cornerstone of eye care excellence in Manly since 1957. Founded by Wallaby legend Rob Heming and continued by Ian Donald, our practice combines decades of clinical expertise with a commitment to cutting-edge technology. We specialise in comprehensive eye examinations, precision diagnostics, and tailored eyewear solutions, prioritising preventative care to safeguard long-term vision health.

Our team of experienced optometrists and optical dispensers serves patients of all ages, from children to seniors, ensuring optimal outcomes through advanced equipment and personalised service. With a legacy of trust spanning generations, we remain dedicated to the Northern Beaches community, offering accessible care and a curated selection of designer frames to meet diverse lifestyle needs.
Services
Eye Examination Contact Lenses Designer Frames Ortho-K Treatment Emergency Services Dry Eye Therapy Children's Eye Care Senior Eye Health Lens Replacement Vision Correction
Details
  • Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
  • 60+ years of trusted eye care expertise in Manly
  • On-site lab for emergency glasses within 24 hours
  • Team includes contact lens research specialists
  • Curated collection of international designer eyewear brands
  • Investment in state-of-the-art diagnostic technology
What people say
Outstanding service Friendly staff Emergency glasses fast Expert knowledge Thorough examinations
Services
Eye Examination
Our comprehensive eye examinations utilise the latest diagnostic technology to detect vision issues and eye diseases at their earliest stages. Our optometrists conduct thorough assessments of visual acuity, eye health, and potential conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. With tailored testing for children, adults, and seniors, we ensure accurate prescriptions and proactive eye health management for Northern Beaches residents.
Contact Lenses
We offer expert contact lens fittings for all vision needs, including disposable soft lenses, multifocal options, and specialty lenses. Our contact lens specialist brings research-based expertise to ensure optimal comfort and vision correction. Patients receive comprehensive fitting assessments and follow-up care to maintain eye health while enjoying the convenience of contact lenses.
Emergency Services
Our on-site optical lab enables rapid production of emergency glasses within 24 hours. We handle urgent vision needs including broken glasses replacement, sudden vision changes, and eye injuries. With immediate access to diagnostic equipment and a wide lens inventory, we provide timely solutions to maintain clear vision for Manly residents.
Ortho-K Treatment
Orthokeratology uses custom-designed lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear daytime vision without glasses. This non-surgical treatment effectively manages myopia progression in children while offering adults freedom from corrective eyewear during waking hours through our precision-fitting process.
Designer Frames
We curate an extensive collection of premium designer frames from international brands like Prada, Tom Ford, and Mykita alongside Australian designers. Our optical dispensers provide expert frame fitting assistance, balancing aesthetics, comfort, and functionality to ensure both style and practicality in every eyewear choice.
People
Ian Donald
Lead Optometrist
With over 40 years at the practice, Ian Donald brings decades of clinical expertise and community commitment to patient care. Mentored by founder Rob Heming, he combines traditional values with modern optometric advancements to lead our team in delivering exceptional eye health services.
Michael Kotow
Contact Lens Specialist
Recognised for his research contributions, Michael provides world-class contact lens expertise. His specialisation in complex lens fittings ensures patients receive tailored solutions for optimal comfort and vision correction across the Northern Beaches region.
David Olver
Senior Optometrist
David combines extensive diagnostic experience with patient-focused care. His expertise in advanced eye health assessments ensures accurate detection and management of ocular conditions, maintaining the high clinical standards established by the practice over six decades.
Sean Castleman
Optical Dispenser Manager
As dispensing manager, Sean oversees our premium eyewear collection. With specialist knowledge in frame styling and functionality, he leads our team in helping clients select eyewear that perfectly balances aesthetic preferences with practical vision requirements.
Roger Henley
Bespoke Designer
Australian designer Roger Henley creates unique, handcrafted frames exclusively available at our Manly clinic. His artistic approach to eyewear design offers customers individualised options that combine technical precision with distinctive personal style.
Questions
How often should I have an eye test?
Adults should test every 1-2 years; more frequently if over 65 or with family eye history. Children need annual checks for vision development.
What happens during a comprehensive eye exam?
We review vision history, test clarity and focus, screen for eye diseases using advanced technology, and discuss any concerns during 30-45 minute appointments.
Do you offer same-day emergency glasses?
Yes, our on-site lab often provides single-vision replacements within 24 hours, including weekends for urgent cases in Manly and Northern Beaches.
What eye conditions do you manage?
We detect and monitor glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye conditions using OCT scans and corneal topography technology.
Do you accept Medicare rebates?
As private billers, we process Medicare and private health insurance rebates at point of service - please contact reception for current consultation fee details.
Reviews (5)
Wendy Hood
Dec 16, 2020 Report
Just before Christmas the spring broke in the arm of my $795 glasses from BN around the corner but they shrugged it off. I popped into Ian Donald in desperation as I needed to see over the Christmas break and the staff were lovely. They found an arm similar to my glasses so that I would get by. I could not be more grateful. I definitely recommend amazing customer service. Thank you so much.
Mark Hellyer
Dec 04, 2020 Report
It great when you decide to support a local business, you find out it was the right decision you made, as they are extremely professional and friendly in the way they dealt with my needs.
Charlotte Thomas
Nov 12, 2020 Report
Thank you so much to the wonderful and helpful team at Ian Donald. They really helped me out in my hour of need with contact lenses when over from the UK. Would highly recommend them and some great specs in there too! thanks again ladies
Rod Bryan
Aug 27, 2020 Report
Needed an urgent eye test and they made space for a consultation at short notice. Very professional and friendly. Very hygenic processes and explained in detail what was going on with eyes. Great location as well. Highly recommend.
Rachel Bean
Oct 26, 2019 Report
These guys are the best! Im backpacking through Australia and lost my glasses to the surf. I went in and they were so helpful in getting my glasses when I was extremely tight on time. Super friendly staff, really efficient. I would 10/10 recommended if youre in need of glasses. Seriously, I would give 100 stars if I could.