Dr Warren Apel
Cataract and Vitreoretinal Surgeon
MBBS BSc MMed FRANZCO
Dr Apel sees patients at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina in Noosa and Caloundra.
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The Eye Specialists at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina completed their ophthalmology training in Australia and are Fellows of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology. They have undertaken additional surgical fellowship training overseas and provide the highest standard of care for their patients.
Cataract and Vitreoretinal Surgeon
MBBS BSc MMed FRANZCO
Dr Apel sees patients at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina in Noosa and Caloundra.
Ophthalmic and Oculoplastic Surgeon
MBBS BSc MMed FRANZCO
Dr Besley sees patients at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina in Caloundra.
Natascha is a registered nurse with over 20 years of surgical experience specialising in ophthalmic procedures. She is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through her clinical skills and compassionate approach. Nat also works at both the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and Kawana Hospital as an Eye Operating Theatre Nurse.
Janine has over 10 years of experience as an ophthalmology technician and prides herself on providing a high standard of patient care with a down to earth approach. When she’s not hunting down a good coffee she can be found walking her dog on the beach.
Jodie is an optometrist who has been working in various clinical settings for over 10 years. She graduated from UNSW with first class honours and the University Medal in 2011. Jodie has a passion for educating people around their eyecare needs. She is always keen to learn more, even outside the field of ophthalmology, and has recently qualified as a yoga teacher. When not in the clinical environment, Jodie can be found doing yoga or reading a good book by the beach.
Nicola has a background in eye research and human ethics and brings a unique depth of knowledge to patient support and care. Passionate about clear communication, Nicola works closely with patients to help them feel informed and supported through each phase of care. Outside of work, Nicola enjoys hiking and camping with her Kelpie, family and friends.
Jewel has been a registered nurse for 5 years and she has over 3 years’ experience as a Perioperative Nurse in Ophthalmology. She is dedicated to making patients feel at ease when they come in for their treatment at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina and enjoys working in diverse environments with a holistic approach to patient-centred care. Jewel also works at Sunshine Coast University Hospital in operating theatres across a multitude of specialties. Outside of work, Jewel enjoys family days fishing offshore and beach walks with her dachshund George.
Krista is a registered nurse with expertise in ophthalmology nursing, bringing comprehensive experience from clinical and administrative roles in both public and private health care settings. Krista’s nursing foundation was established through training at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane and her specialisation in ophthalmology nursing began in a theatre setting, and later expanded into clinic-based roles at the Mater and Children’s Hospital providing comprehensive eye care to both adult and paediatric patients. Krista works across all areas of Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina and so may meet patients at the front desk, to take a surgical booking or to assist in their clinical work-up and care. Outside of work, Krista enjoys long-distance running, reformer pilates and spending days at the beach with my family.
Rick is an optometrist who has been serving the Noosa community for over 10 years. He graduated from QUT in 2005 with first-class honours and began his career in the NT, gaining experience in remote settings. He later moved to the Sunshine Coast, where he has built a reputation for his thorough, patient-centred approach. Rick is passionate about helping people maintain their vision and eye health through personalised care and patient education. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys surfing and camping with his family.
Trish has been working in ophthalmology for over 15 years. She is passionate about patient care and in her role as surgical bookings officer, Trish utilises her wealth of experience to ensure that surgeries run smoothly and are a positive experience for patients and surgeons. Outside work she enjoys spending time with her large family, live entertainment, travel and Zumba!
Penny started working in ophthalmology in 2014 after years in optometry. She loves working with a caring team and ensuring the patient’s visit is relaxed and comfortable. Outside of work Penny enjoys time with her family, walking, Pilates and travelling.
Leanne has spent her working life in Optometry, and over the past 7 years working in Ophthalmology. Leanne enjoys combining reception and clinic days, where she is assisting with scans and field tests ensuring patients feel comfortable and supported in the clinical space. We have a lovely team and it’s always a pleasure for Leanne to be in the clinic. She also has qualifications in aged care, enjoys being with family, baking, outdoor walking and enjoying great coffee spots on the coast with friends.
With over 20 years of experience in the optical industry, Nikki has developed a genuine passion for caring for people and supporting their eye health. She values the connections she builds with patients and aims to create a welcoming environment where they feel heard, supported, and cared for. Nikki is proud to call the beautiful Sunshine Coast home, where she lives with her husband, their son, and their much-loved Border Collie, Rosie. When Nikki is not at work, she is outdoors enjoying the beach, walking Rosie, or planning her next travel adventure.
Jen takes pride in bringing a welcoming smile to our patients as soon as they walk into our space. With six years’ experience in ophthalmology front desk and administration, Jen likes to create a friendly and positive experience for all patients and their carers. She genuinely enjoys working with a great team and values the strong sense of teamwork we share at Sunshine Coast Eye and Retina. Jen has lived on the Sunshine Coast for 30 years, is a sports lover, enjoys exploring nature on local walks and spending quality time with her family and friends.
With a lengthy career in allied health practice management, Monique brings both experience and a warm, compassionate approach to her role. She is dedicated to ensuring every patient feels supported, comfortable, and genuinely cared for from the moment they arrive. Monique values personalised service and takes pride in contributing to a positive, professional environment for patients and the team. Outside of work, she enjoys playing golf, travelling, and gardening.
For more information about our anaesthetists, please visit the Sunshine Coast Anaesthetic Group website.
For more information about Dr Keil Auer, please visit his website drkeilauer.com.