A local business with more than 70 years of history is encouraging locals to rediscover the city centre as part of Bundaberg Regional Council’s Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign.
For Christensen Harbison Optometrists, being part of the CBD is about much more than having a shopfront on Barolin Street.
It is about being part of the community.
Established in 1952, the independent practice is the city’s longest-established optometry business and has been caring for generations of local families.
Today, owner and optometrist Anthony Mulvahil and his wife Rachel continue that tradition from the practice at 7 Barolin Street, combining decades of experience with advanced diagnostic technology and personalised customer care.
“What makes us special is that we take the time to get to know our patients and provide personalised care suited to their needs,” Anthony said.
“Our experienced optometrists work with you every step of the way, from the initial eye examination through to choosing frames and lenses and the final fitting.”
Christensen Harbison Optometrists provides comprehensive eye care for people of all ages, including eye examinations, contact lens consultations, cataract assessments and licence testing.
The practice has also invested in advanced diagnostic technology, enabling its optometrists to undertake detailed assessments and monitor changes in patients’ eye health over time.
CBD the heart of a thriving community
While eye care is at the heart of the business, Anthony said the practice’s role in the CBD went beyond its doors.
“We hope that every person who walks through our doors feels welcomed, valued and genuinely cared for,” he said.
“We enjoy getting to know our customers and building relationships that often continue for many years.”
For Anthony, the CBD’s strength comes from the connections between businesses, residents and visitors.
“Being in the CBD means we are right in the heart of the community we serve,” he said.
“Our location is convenient to many other complimentary health services, including a doctor, dentist and pharmacy.
“Our customers like being able to drop by for a chat, to ask questions or peruse our latest range of frames.
“We enjoy being surrounded by other local businesses and being part of the everyday activity of the city centre.”
Support for Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign
That sense of connection is one of the reasons Christensen Harbison Optometrists is supporting Bundaberg Regional Council’s Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign.
“We support the Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign because we want to see a Bundaberg CBD that is welcoming, vibrant, safe and enjoyable for everyone.” Anthony said.
“We are proud to play our small part in contributing to a strong and connected Bundaberg community.”
The message from one of Bundaberg’s longest-serving CBD businesses to anyone who has not visited the city centre recently is simple.
“Come back and have a look around,” Anthony said.
“There are so many passionate local business owners, great shops, cafés, restaurants and professional services in the Bundaberg CBD, and it is worth supporting the people who invest their time and energy into keeping our city centre thriving.”
Christensen Harbison Optometrists is located at 7 Barolin Street, Bundaberg CBD.
We’re placing a spotlight on businesses in the Bundaberg CBD and celebrating all there is to love about our city centre as part of the Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign.
Find out more about the project here.
