Meet Our Surgeons
Dr Heathcote Wright
Cataract and Glaucoma Surgeon, Medical Retina Specialist
PhD, FRANZCO
Dr Heathcote Wright graduated from University of Queensland Medical School in 2000. He undertook his residency in North Queensland before returning to his native Melbourne to complete a PhD with Professor Hugh Taylor AC at the University of Melbourne.
He completed his advanced surgical training in ophthalmology at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in 2011 before heading to Bristol Eye Hospital to complete a fellowship in glaucoma surgery.
Outside of work Heath is a father to 4 boys and an avid Marathon runner.
Dr Nima Pakrou
Cataract and Oculoplastic Surgeon, Medical Retina Specialist
MBBS (Hons), MMed, FRANZCO
Dr Nima Pakrou graduated from the University of Adelaide with Honours in 2001, and was ranked first in his graduation year. He subsequently accomplished a Masters of Medicine through the University of Sydney.
He completed his advanced surgical training in ophthalmology through the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in 2010. Following this, he undertook a further two years of sub-specialty training in the UK, in the areas of oculoplastics and lacrimal surgery, as well as retinal and intraocular inflammatory diseases.
Outside of work Nima enjoys spending quality time with his young family and a quieter lifestyle in the Macedon ranges.
Dr Jeremy Diamond
Cataract and Glaucoma Surgeon, Medical Retina Specialist
MB ChB, FRCS, FRCOphth, PhD
Jeremy Diamond qualified as a doctor in the UK. His ophthalmology training was split between Bristol and Perth, WA. Along the way he undertook a PhD studying the natural antibiotics present in the eye. For many years he ran the glaucoma department at the Bristol Eye Hospital. As well as managing patients with complex glaucoma, he was a senior cataract surgeon, undertaking nearly 1,000 cataract operations each year. During his time in Bristol he worked with both Heathcote Wright and Nima Pakrou.
He has recently relocated to Melbourne with his Australian-born wife, Ms Helen Garrott (also an ophthalmic surgeon) and children. Dr Diamond works at MCES and Sunbury and is qualifies to manage all forms of glaucoma and cataract. He also manages macula diseases.
Dr Kathy Jao
Cataract and Oculoplastic Surgeon, Corneal and Paediatric Specialist
MBBS(Hons), BMedSc, PDipPH, FRANZCO
Dr Kathy Jao treats both adults and paediatric patients. Specialising in Anterior Segment (Cornea and Cataract), Oculoplastics, and Paediatric Ophthalmology/Strabismus, Dr Jao provides expert care across a wide spectrum of eye conditions.
After graduating with honours from the University of Melbourne in 2012, Dr Jao completed her Ophthalmology training at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne. She became a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists in 2021, following extensive sub-specialty training both in Australia and the UK. Her fellowships included Cornea and Oculoplastics at Royal Perth Hospital, Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at Queensland Children’s Hospital, and further Oculoplastic training at Aintree University Hospital and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool.
Dr Jao currently serves as a visiting consultant at The Alfred Hospital and The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Outside of her professional commitments, Dr Jao enjoys spending time with her young family, exploring art and music, traveling, and is fluent in Mandarin Chinese.
Dr Benjamin Cumming
Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
BMed, MD, FRANZCO
Ben completed medical school at the University of New South Wales in Sydney. Subsequently, he then carried out specialised training in Ophthalmology in Melbourne.
He undertook advanced cataract surgery training at Northern Health and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, with a focus on the management of complex cataract cases, including patients with weak lens support, previous eye surgery, or higher visual demands. He has experience with premium and presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses, secondary lens implantation, and personalised IOL selection and biometry in challenging eyes.
Dr Cumming has also completed further training in refractive surgery through London Vision Clinic and the University of Sydney, including laser vision correction (LASIK, PRK, KLEx) and implantable collamer lenses (ICL). This enables a comprehensive approach to vision correction that integrates both corneal and lens-based surgery.
Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, CrossFit, camping, and surfing.
Dr Rogan Fraser
Cataract Surgeon, Neuro and General Ophthalmology
B.Sc (Hons), B.Optom, MD, FRANZCO
Dr Rogan Fraser is a dedicated and thorough Ophthalmologist who practices comprehensive General Ophthalmology, with a special interest in Neuro-Ophthalmology. Prior to becoming an Ophthalmologist, he practiced as an Optometrist in regional Victoria for a number of years. He is known for his attention to detail and his commitment to going above and beyond to ensure the best outcomes for his patients.
Dr Fraser prefers to be called Rogan. Outside of work he enjoys time spent with his young family, Cross-fit and keep up to date with US politics. He currently undertaking his fellowship in the UK and will return to practice in mid-2026.
Meet Our Team
Can (John) Komser
Clinical Optometrist
B. Optom (MELB)
John joined the MCES team in 2018. He graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2011 with a Bachelor of Optometry. Following graduation, he worked in multiple practices in NSW and QLD before returning to VIC in 2015. John has conducted research with the National Eye Health Survey team who assessed the prevalence and burden of eye disease across Australia. He has worked as a teaching clinician for Optometry students at the ACO and gained further experience in co-management of Glaucoma and specialty contact lens fitting.
John enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, camping and driving whenever he can. He also enjoys live music and collecting vinyl records.
Nancy Ngo
Clinical Optometrist
B. Optom (MELB)
Nancy graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2011. Prior to joining MCES in 2021, she spent many years working in regional Victoria at a private practice. She has a vested interest in therapeutics and clinical Optometry.
Working parallel with Dr Wright and Dr Pakrou, she plays an active role in guiding patient management. You will commonly see her working on Wednesdays, primarily assessing patient who are being treatment with anti-VEGF injections.
In her spare time she enjoys calligraphy and engraving. She is fluent in Cantonese.
Shynade Plant
Practice Manager/ Ophthalmic Technician
Shynade joined the team in late 2016 as the inaugural practice manager, playing a pivotal role within the business. Her passion for eye care began in 2011, where she worked as an “all-rounder,” assisting with eye procedures and injections, managing surgical bookings, conducting clinical tests, and handling administrative duties.
Shynade is dedicated to advocating for the best interests of all patients, always prioritising their concerns in decision-making. Her outgoing and approachable nature ensures that patients have a pleasurable and positive experience when visiting MCES.
Originally from Tasmania, Shynade and her husband relocated to Melbourne in 2016 to advance their careers. She is a proud mother of two, a son and a daughter, and enjoys running in her free time.
Josie Rigbye
Accounts Manager
Josie joined the team in August 2019 as our accounts and business manager. Although her role is predominantly based behind the scenes, on occasion her giggly self may greet you on arrival to your appointment.
She has previously been involved with running a manufacturing family business, before transitioning into the healthcare field. She has many years experience with account management, payroll and book-keeping as well as medical administration.
Josie and her husband, Darren are empty nesters, with three grown children. They look forward to welcoming grandchildren to their family one day.
Julia Tran
Orthoptist/Theatre Coordinator
Julia completed a Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Orthoptics Degree at La Trobe University in 2016. In her final year of study, Julia undertook clinical placements at private practices and public hospitals where she acquired valuable experience and knowledge in many areas of eye care.
Her responsibilities include: general, retinal, Oculoplastics, intraocular lens calculation for cataract surgery, assisting in Intravitreal injections and performing IPL treatment on patients with dry eyes.
Julia is part of a family of six and takes care of three energetic younger brothers. On her days off, Julia enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, always seeking to have adventurous outings. She also speaks Vietnamese.
Zena Aboughattas
Head Orthoptist
Zena initially started at MCES as a student undertaking clinical placement from La Trobe University where she graduated from her Bachelor of Health Science and Masters in Orthoptics in 2020. She then joined the team in January 2021 as a qualified Orthoptist and will play an important role during your visit ensuring that you feel comfortable and cared for.
Striving to gain as much orthoptic experience possible, she volunteered at many public and private ophthalmic clinics during her study period.
On her days off Zena enjoys spending quality time with her young son Noah and visiting family and friends.
Holly Neville
Head Receptionist
Holly was welcomed to MCES in October 2022 and has become a highly valued member of the team. She has a warm and gentle nature with a vibrant personality. As the supervisor of the reception team, she plays an integral role in ensuring the clinic’s front-of-house operations run smoothly, while helping create a warm and welcoming experience for every patient. She has a background in the beauty/skin industry and is passionate about self-care. She previously studied Applied Health Science and Dermal Therapy, and was drawn to explore a career in the healthcare industry.
In addition to overseeing the reception team and her administrative responsibilities, Holly also assists in clinical settings, including intravitreal injection procedures and patient diagnostic testing. Outside the clinic, Holly enjoys travelling, prioritising self-care, and spending quality time with her friends, family, and beloved Spoodle, Finn.
Thaemindi (Mindi) Surage
Orthoptist
Mindi began her career as an Orthoptist at MCES in April 2024. After graduating in October 2021, she developed a strong passion for glaucoma and retinal care, actively seeking opportunities to work in these subspecialties in the private sector. She also has a keen interest in paediatrics and aims to expand her expertise in this area. As the eldest of two siblings, Mindi combines leadership skills with empathy in her professional role. Fluent in Sinhalese, her multicultural background enables her to connect effectively with a diverse patient population. Mindi is a passionate advocate for self-care and holistic well-being, including fitness and spending time outdoors with friends.
Adam Kaucki
Orthoptist
Adam became a part of our team in September 2024, splitting his time between Sunbury Eye Surgeons and our sister clinic, Melbourne Comprehensive Eye Surgeons (MCES). With over 10 years of experience as an Orthoptist, Adam has worked in both public and private clinics across Melbourne and interstate, including Sydney, Canberra, and Queensland.
A passionate advocate for holistic patient care, Adam earned his “Red Vest” for volunteering over 100 hours at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital. He is dedicated to enhancing patient orientation and mobility, and regularly attends Orthoptic Conferences and Scientific Meetings to stay at the forefront of his field. Adam also plays a vital role in patient care by working closely with our Ophthalmologists, performing a range of tests and scans prior to doctor consultations.
Outside of work, Adam is an avid puzzler, enjoying challenges like Cryptic Crosswords and Sudokus. He also loves spending time with family and friends, playing board games, and staying active at the gym.
Saloni Varma
Receptionist
Saloni joined our reception and administration team in March 2025. With her warm smile and approachable nature, she’s often the first friendly face you’ll see when visiting our clinic — or the cheerful voice you’ll hear over the phone.
Working five days a week, Saloni plays an essential role in ensuring our patients have a smooth experience. When she’s not at the front desk, she’s busy assisting patients with scheduling surgery dates and providing pre and post-operative instructions to support their care journey.
Outside of work, Saloni and her husband are excitedly preparing to welcome a new addition to their family. During this special time, she will be taking personal leave to focus on her family.
Chloe Jacobi
Clinical Technician
Chloe joined the MCES clinical team in May 2025 and is currently completing her Bachelor of Science and Master of Orthoptics degree. She is passionate about developing her clinical skills and is eager to apply her growing knowledge in a clinical setting, accelerating her journey toward becoming an Orthoptist.
Balancing work alongside her university studies, Chloe brings dedication and enthusiasm to everything she does. Outside of the clinic, she is a state volleyball player and enjoys keeping active.
Benedetta Fiorile
Receptionist
Benedetta is a bilingual Italian professional with a strong background in personal training, hospitality, and travel. She joined the reception team in July 2025, bringing her approachable, outgoing nature and a proudly louder voice to the front desk and surgical bookings team. With excellent communication skills and a warm, welcoming presence, she helps set the tone for a positive patient experience.
Focused on ensuring every visit runs smoothly, Benedetta combines exceptional customer service with genuine care and attention. She supports patients through each stage of their journey, helping them feel informed and comfortable both in the clinic and as they prepare for surgery.
Outside of work, Benedetta is passionate about fitness, enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle, and is a devoted mother of two.
Casey Nicholson
Clinical Technician
Casey relocated to Melbourne from New Zealand in October 2025 to pursue further career opportunities within ophthalmology. She has a background in optometry, having worked as an optical assistant and dispenser, and has long aspired to work within an ophthalmology clinic as part of the clinical team. Casey commenced her role at Melbourne Comprehensive Eye Surgeons in December 2025, where she continues to develop her skills with the long-term goal of progressing into an ophthalmic technician role.
Outside of work, Casey enjoys spending time with her partner, going to the gym, reading, and travelling.
