Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Notre Dame University Diploma of the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists GP Obstetrician Tonya Coren is dedicated to ensuring all First Light Healthcare patients receive the highest level of care possible. With a passion for women’s and children’s health, Tonya combines her easy going, supportive manner with a commitment to thorough communication and follow up. Tonya completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Notre Dame University, followed by a Diploma of the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (DRANZCOG) at the Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick. Tonya is one of a handful of GP Obstetricians supporting the midwives of Byron Community Birthing Service, at Byron Central Hospital. Mother to three children, Tonya understands the important role instinct plays in healthcare, and takes the time to listen closely to her patients. A down to earth, non-judgmental approach to diagnosis and treatment, together with her outstanding knowledge and expertise has made Tonya a trusted name in local healthcare. Tonya believes that the highest standard of healthcare should be available to all Australians, and understands the frustrations patients can feel when they are navigating the healthcare system. With this in mind she is dedicated to giving each patient the time and attention they require, and takes great pride in providing exceptional follow up and communication. Tonya is dedicated to ongoing education, and utilising new technologies and working with First Light Healthcare’s team of Allied Health professionals to ensure optimum outcomes for patients. When she is not working, Tonya enjoys spending time outdoors with her family - swimming, gardening or trying to surf! SPECIAL INTERESTS

• GP Obstetrics
• Paediatric Care
• Women’s health
• Preventative Medicine
• Adolescent Health
• Sexual Health
• Indigenous health
• Mental Health & Wellbeing
• Elderly Health & Wellbeing

Progressive, patient-centred healthcare is at the heart Dr Hugh McLeod’s work as a general practitioner. Hugh graduated from the University of NSW in 1997 and obtained his fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 2001.

Hugh has spent the past two decades working across diverse general practice settings in Sydney, Melbourne and the NSW Northern Rivers, gaining valuable insight and experience, and cementing his reputation as one of the region’s most trusted GPs.

Hugh first commenced work in Byron Bay at the former Shirley Street Family Practice in 2005 and over the past 15 years, he has developed a strong knowledge of local health needs and services. Hugh’s medical interests include the management of chronic illness, including coronary heart disease, diabetes and HIV infection, as well as sexual health and mental health problems.

Special Interests: General medicine Chronic illness Coronary heart disease Diabetes HIV Sexual Health, viral hepatitis and PrEP for HIV prevention Mental health

With rich and varied experience, both here in Australia and around the world, Dr Adam Ellerby is passionate about preventive and general health.

With a special interest in sport and exercise medicine, Adam has extensive experience working with teams and individuals, as well as covering events as a medical officer.

Adam's special interests include:
- Men’s health
- Chronic disease
- Preventative health
- Sports and injury medicine
- Exercise prescription
- Weight management
- Minor procedures (including joint injections)
- Paediatric care

Born and raised in the UAE, Adam completed his medical training in the UK, before moving to Australia where he has undertaken a broad range of experiences and further training, including working in emergency and acute care acute and completing postgraduate certification with Australasian College of Emergency Medicine (ACEM) and the Austalasian College of Sports and Exercise Physicians (ASCEP).

Adam has transitioned to general practice, consolidating his skills and experience to provide the highest level of care to patients with a broad range of needs.

Bachelor of Science, University of West Indies

Bachelor of Medicine, University of West Indies

Moving to the Byron Shire in 2006, Dr Binns gained extensive experience in general practice in Tenterfield, Mullumbimby and Byron Bay, before becoming part of the First Light Healthcare team in 2016.

Throughout his long career he has also worked in the United Kingdom and in New Zealand in medical practice and, notably, spent two years’ as a ship’s doctor on a cruise line in Florida and Mexico.

Dr Binns has a high level of empathy and skilled diagnostic ability, backed by a genuine desire to connect with patients and guide them on the road to well-being. His caring manner gives patience reassurance and peace of mind.

For all his patients, he encourages preventative care and, where possible, he explores options for managing chronic conditions, that exclude prescribing addictive drugs.

Currently, Dr Binns is specialising in the care of elderly patients, as well as palliative and end of life care.

He is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

SPECIAL INTERESTS

• Care of the elderly
• Minor surgery
• Preventative Healthcare

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, University of Sydney Bachelor of Medical Science, University of Sydney Diploma of Child Health, University of Sydney and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network From paediatrics to sexual health and antenatal and post-natal care, Kate has a special interest in women’s and children’s health and wide experience in general practice. After completing her Internship at Royal North Shore Hospital in 2012, Kate worked as a Resident Medical Officer assisting in her key areas of interest, as well as Emergency. She later accepted a position as a Senior Resident Medical Officer in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Royal North Shore Hospital, Gosford Hospital and Hornsby Hospital, NSW. This role included managing antenatal, post-natal and gynaecology inpatient and outpatients, as well as performing gynaecological-related surgeries. Kate’s professional experience has also encompassed General Medicine and Surgery at Kempsey District Hospital and Lismore Base Hospital, NSW and Cairns Base Hospital Queensland. A Northern Rivers resident for more than a decade, from 2017, Kate worked as a GP at Meadows Medical Centre, Mullumbimby. It was here she continued to pursue her passion for antenatal, perinatal and postnatal care, as well as attended to the general and complex medical needs of patients. She also tutored and supervised medical students and GP Registrars at the practice. Kate holds a Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health from Family Planning NSW and has furthered her education in this area by studying foetal welfare education and obstetric emergencies. She is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. A mother of two, she likes to keep fit with regular Pilates classes and enjoying outdoor activities in the pristine, local environment. Kate is also a keen traveller who hopes to see more of the world when travel restrictions lift.

Dr Pramuk Jayatilake, or PJ as he prefers to be called, has extensive experience practicing general medicine throughout Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and PNG. At the centre of his patient-focused approach is a dedication to understanding his patient’s needs. Listening, and communication are at the heart of everything he does.

PJ has a holistic, preventative approach to health and wellbeing.

As well as extensive experience in all General Practice, PJ has a special interest in mental health, travel medicine, chronic disease management and skin health.

PJ is accredited with the Skin Cancer College of Australia and is able to perform full skin checks and procedures including skin flaps.

GP Paddy Mclisky combines his friendly, no-nonsense approach with a wealth of experience in all aspects of family medicine.

Believing the best medical approach is a preventative one, Paddy is driven to help educate and inform patients to ensure they can take a proactive approach to their health and wellbeing.

A fellow of the Royal Australia College of General Practitioners, Paddy has a special interest in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer, and holds Advanced Certificates in Skin Cancer Medicine/Surgery and Dermatoscopy.

He has previously worked as a full time skin cancer specialist, undertaking all aspects of patient care including skin cancer screening and diagnosis, and dermatological surgery including head, face and lower limb regions, using a variety of flaps and skin grafts.

While he has extensive experience in the treatment of skin cancer, he is passionate about informing his patients on the preventative measures that can be undertaken to avoid skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is a major issue here in Australia,” Paddy says. “And we all need to be better educated and more proactive about preventing skin cancer. Most people know they should be wearing 30+ sunscreen but that alone isn’t enough. Educating my patients about what they need to do to avoid skin cancer is a very important part of what I do.”

Whether it be skin cancer or general health, Paddy believes that regardless of the condition being treated, listening to his patients is the most important part of his job.

“I always ensure that I listen to everything my patients have to say,” Paddy says. “It may be something they mention in passing right at the end of the appointment, or a quiet comment, but I always make sure I listen and address every concern they have.”

• Skin cancer checks
• Skin cancer surgery
• Preventative healthcare
• Men's health
• Women's health

Originally from the United Kingdom, Gisselle has a wide range of clinical experience working across multiple medical and surgical specialities for the past eight years.

Her career has taken her to Guatemala and Mexico, where she completed research with Indigenous women, as well as seen her excel in her homeland and in Australia.

Giselle enjoys all aspects of general practice, including sexual and reproductive health, women’s health, pediatrics, men’s health, dermatology, chronic health, elderly medicine, and minor procedures. Gaining her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Leeds in 2013, she emigrated to Australia in 2016 with her partner, also a GP.

Gisselle initially worked at John Hunter and Maitland Hospital and at Lake Macquarie Private Hospital in both pediatric and adult emergency medicine. In 2018, she moved to the Northern Rivers to work at Lismore Base Hospital, completing her registrar training across specialities including emergency, anaesthetics and intensive care.

As a consequence, Gisselle has met many of the specialists in the region and become familiar with local referral pathways, something that continues to benefit her patients.

She has worked as a GP at Bay Centre Medical in Byron Bay and Meadows Medical Centre in Mullumbimby and says her switch from hospital medicine to general practice has allowed her to build rapport and a long-lasting relationship with patients, something she finds highly rewarding. Now at First Light Healthcare in the Byron Bay practice, Gisselle hopes to continue to strengthen the links she has with local people and medical practitioners.

She is also a visiting medical officer at Byron Bay Hospital and looks after her patients during their hospital admission.

In any spare time, Gisselle enjoys Australia’s outdoor lifestyle and stays fit with yoga, Pilates and HIIT training. She lives in Byron with her partner, and their dog, Fonzie the Cavoodle.

Dr Brett Frenkiel is a Sport and Exercise Medicine specialist and has a passion for treating all musculoskeletal injuries as  well as being an advocate for a healthy and active lifestyle.

Whether they be elite athletes, weekend warriors, or patients with chronic health conditions, Brett strives to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients through a compassionate, caring and thorough clinical approach using open and clear communication, combined with the latest evidence based medical treatments.

After completing his undergraduate degree in biomedical science at Monash University, Brett graduated in medicine from Bond University in 2009. Ranked among the top of his class, he received multiple awards for academic excellence as well as the prestigious vice chancellors award. Following this he trained as a junior doctor with Austin Health where he gained extensive experience in general medicine, emergency medicine, paediatrics, trauma and surgery.

Common Conditions Treated Injuries: • acute / traumatic • chronic / overuse • concussion • back pain • adult + paediatric

Chronic msk conditions: • osteo arthritis • back pain • tendinopathies • joint pain • plantar fasciitis

Exercise prescription: • pregnancy / post-partum • chronic health conditions (i.e . diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, oncological) • rheumatology • metabolic conditions • weight loss

Sport specific: • elite • recreational • individual • team based

Dr Rob Sheahan has become a trusted figure in the Byron Bay community, having moved to the region in 2015. Rob graduated from Sydney University in 1987. He completed the Family medicine program at Hornsby Hospital, then residency at Windsor / Hawkesbury Hospital which then became a newly formed CMO position with full broad based medical, paediatric and surgical training.

Rob set up his own General Practice in 1991 in North Richmond which he continued until 2014. For a period, Rob was chairman of the division of general practice and was also course doctor at Hawkesbury races for 23 years.

In 2015, Rob moved to the far north coast to live. Rob’s special interests include minor surgery, skin cancers, paediatrics / family health, exercise and general wellbeing.

Rob has a dedication to outcome-oriented, patient-focused care.

Special Interests: General medicine Minor surgery/procedures Skin cancer Paediatrics Family health

With a special interest in HIV, Sexual Health, and Clinical Research, as well as tropical medicine, travel medicine, rural and Indigenous health, Dr John Chuah is a caring, innovative and forward thinking GP, with a dedication to providing complete and holistic healthcare to the Northern rivers community.

John graduated from the University of NSW in 1974. In the decades that followed John obtained strong and extensive experience in General Practice. At the same time he has served as a member of a host of national and international steering committees on HIV and Sexual Health.

His extensive national and international experience has seen Johnserve the communities of Papua New Guinea, Northern Territory and Queensland, and Byron Bay.

In addition to his work as a GP, John is a lecturer at Griffith and Bond Universities, holding an academic title of Associate Professor at both Universities since 2004.

Special Interests: General medicine HIV Sexual Health Clinical research Tropic medicine Travel medicine Rural health Indigenous health

Originally gaining a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Queensland and working in private practice, and for Queensland Health, Lara has gone on to explore the full breadth of general practice.

In 2011, she a completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Queensland and, in 2016, a Diploma and Certificate of Women’s Health from the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

She has since worked as a General Practitioner at Ocean Shores Medical Centre, Musgrave Street Medical and Samford Doctors Surgery, and gained experience across mental health, women’s health, paediatrics, musculoskeletal medicine, and diagnosis and management of chronic health conditions.

Lara is very focussed on preventative care and tries to use each consult as an opportunity to discuss lifestyle factors and other healthcare concerns. She often writes ‘scripts’ for exercise, sleep and dietary changes to encourage patients to take practical steps to improve their health and lifestyle. Lara also enjoys helping to care for women and their families during pregnancy.

Lara has also worked in emergency departments at The Prince Charles Hospital in Queensland and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, and as a volunteer for Holyoake (Drug and Alcohol Dependency) in Queensland.

She currently lives in the Byron Hinterland, with her husband and two children, a horse, a golden retriever, and some happy chickens. Her spare time is spent assisting at the tuck shop of her children’s school, on the sidelines of the Byron Bay Crusaders Rugby Club, running half marathons, trying to learn to surf with her family, and accompanying her daughter to horse camps.

One of Byron Bay’s most respected and sought-after GPs, Dr Charles McDonald graduated from the University of Sydney in 1975. Medicine was quite a change after his BA in English and Classics. He spent the following four years working as resident in various hospitals in Sydney: Royal North Shore, The Mater, St Margaret’s for Women and Children, and St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst.

Charles undertook rural surgical training at Hawkesbury Hospital prior to a year of remote procedural general practice in Bowen, North Queensland.

Back in the Hawkesbury area during the 80s, Charles ran a busy family practice in Windsor with a special interest in childbirth, as his own children were born and grew. Growing also was his fascination with human beings and the human condition. Charles completed a Master of Psychological Medicine from University of NSW in 1993.

Charles then spent the next 10 years in the field of Psychiatry in Nepean Hospital, in private counselling and in Psychiatric Outpatients at St Mary’s, as well as being a surgical assistant in Hawkesbury and Nepean Private Hospital. To maintain his surgical connection Charles performed surgical assisting in various theatres and joined Tweed Skin Cancer Clinic on moving to Byron Bay in 2004.

In 2006 he returned to his old love, general practice, enjoying in particular lifestyle medicine, psychological medicine and skin cancer surgery.

In 2006 he returned to his old love, general practice, but now at a much more enjoyable pace. He loves working with people to help find balance in their lives, to optimise their health and to adapt to adversity, a task Charles says is “such a privilege”.

Special Interests: General medicine Lifestyle medicine Psychological medicine Skin cancer surgery

Caring for the whole person is the foundation of Dr Elizabeth (Liz) Hick’s practice. Her qualifications in multiple disciplines allow her to provide patients with the highest possible standard of care in an unhurried environment. Liz has interests in travel medicine (including yellow fever vaccination), skin cancer, women’s health and antenatal shared care. She can assist with contraceptive implants and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as well as with skin cancer diagnosis and management, including excisions. She is also passionate about supporting people experiencing family/domestic violence, especially women and children. Liz holds a Clinical Diploma of Palliative Medicine from the Royal Australian College of Physicians that assists her in working with  terminally ill patients to help support optimal quality of life through this often challenging phase. She is a member of the RACGP Special Interests (Cancer & Palliative Care) group. During her medical career, Liz has also focussed on assisting patients to manage chronic disease, especially older patients with complex care needs, or those with diabetes. She also has experience in caring for people with mental health issues and is available to patients needing mental health care plans. Attending Alstonville High School, Liz completed her medical degree at the University of Newcastle in 2007 and undertook hospital-based residency training with the Hunter New England Area Health Service before progressing to General Practice training. She gained her Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 2012. In 2015, she joined Tintenbar Medical Centre and now brings her expertise to First Light Healthcare. Away from medicine, Liz is the mother of two young children, enjoys cooking, and dabbles in writing adult and children’s stories.  

Assisting women to positively manage change in their lives, from pregnancy to menopause, is one of the key aspects of Jo’s practice. She would like to see more women empowered with screening and lifestyle advice that helps them enhance their health, and reduce their risk of developing diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Jo graduated with the University Medal from a Bachelor of Medicine (Hons) degree from the University of Newcastle in 2005. After completing her basic hospital training in Newcastle, she spent five years working in emergency departments and rural communities throughout the Northern Territory and the Kimberley region in Western Australia. During her work at a Family Planning clinic in Darwin, Jo developed a keen interest in paediatrics and women’s health, including sexual and reproductive health, and completed additional training in these areas. Moving to Lennox Head with her family in 2010, she has continued to focus on women’s health. Jo inserts contraceptive devices including IUDs and Implanon, performs vulval biopsies, and consults on all women’s health issues, including contraception and hormone replacement therapy. She is passionate about breast and cervical cancer screening, and pre-Covid, regularly volunteered with organisations working throughout the Pacific to reduce cervical cancer rates. Recently Jo produced a training series for doctors on osteoporosis, and hopes to share an evidence-based program for bone health with patients at First Light Healthcare. When she is not working, she enjoys surfing, mountain biking and fishing with her family.

Bachelor of Arts – English, University of Cape Town Bachelor of Arts – Psychology, University of South Africa BA Honours Degree Clinical Psychology, University of South Africa Diploma of Adult Psychotherapy Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists (A.N.Z.A.P) Diploma of Buddhist Psychotherapy - Australian Association of Buddhist Counsellors and Psychotherapists (AABCAP)

Leading psychologist Jane Enter brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Cape Byron Medical Centre’s team of Allied Health professionals.

During her impressive career, Jane has worked at the highest level in numerous organisations involved in assisting clients with mental health issues.

Jane is highly qualified and experienced in treating a variety of extremely complex conditions such as trauma and addiction, as well as more common issues such as relationship difficulties or depression. Among her qualifications are a BA Honours in Clinical Psychology, a Diploma of Adult Psychotherapy and a Diploma of Buddhist Psychotherapy.

Jane’s expertise includes, but is not limited to, anxiety and depression, neuroplasticity and neurobiology, post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol addiction, major life transitions and adolescent mental health. Most recently she was the Clinical Director of Retreat South, Port Fairy, a private rehabilitation centre for clients with complex, multiple issues who were referred by groups including Veterans Affairs, the Police Federation and Workcover.

Many locals will be familiar with Jane in her work for private rehabilitation centre The Sanctuary Byron Bay, where she was the Clinical Director from 2004 to 2017. It was here she brought her natural empathy, insight and high level skills to a global clientele.

In previous roles, Jane has been involved in assessing and providing counselling to clients at Lismore Liver Clinic who had tested positive to Hepatitis C; and was Team Leader at The Buttery Therapeutic Community, an organisation that provides treatment to adults who are suffering from a dependence on chemical substances, and/or have a gambling addiction. Jane has also worked with the Salvation Army in their drug and alcohol treatment Bridge Programme; and as a Psychologist at M.R.C. Prison, where her clients included prisoners on 24-hour lock-up, protection prisoners, sex-offender units and high-profile prisoners who require high security. In this role she undertook education and training of prison officers as well as conducted therapy sessions for inmates. Jane was also a valued member of the prison’s Drug Treatment Unit that specialises in treating long-term male drug users.

Throughout all her roles, Jane has continued to see clients in her own private practice, including people facing mental health issues to those who were dealing with chronic and terminal illnesses. Jane takes great pride in the role she plays in improving a person’s mental health and quality of life.

“It is a great honour to be in my position,” Jane says. “To have people open up to me and allow me to help them at what is often a very dark period in their lives. I take that very seriously. “It is very important that people are understood within their context and their life experience, and that each person is treated as unique.”

Jane returned to Byron Bay in October 2018 to join the Cape Medical Centre Allied Health team. “There is a very strong sense of community at Cape Byron Medical,” Jane says, “and I’m very much enjoying being part of that.”

Applied Psychology Registration Program, Macquarie University
Post-Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Macquarie University
Combined Bachelor of Psychology - Bachelor of Arts (Double major in Cultural Anthropology), Australian National University

With a passion for working with young people, children and families, psychologist Elizabeth Margules specialises in the use of narrative therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, and counselling to address a host of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, mental health and social issues.

Elizabeth believes in the use of psychology not only as a treatment, both short and long term, but as a preventative strategy for young people and families.

Elizabeth has extensive experience in psychological assessment and structured mental health assessments, as well as delivering clinical interventions to young people and their families, through MBS.

Elizabeth’s previous experience includes working with Headspace, the Deliver Brain and Mind Research Institute, the Anxiety Clinic, Oasis Youth Support Network and as a private practitioner offering assessment and ongoing support for young people facing a variety of issues including social anxiety, those at risk of disengaging with education, family issues and self-destructive behaviours.

Her work includes working with individuals and groups, offering individual assessment and therapy as well as the design and delivery of therapeutic groups.

Elizabeth’s gentle approach is focused on listening to young people and identifying the issues they are facing, as well as providing support to develop the tools necessary to develop and flourish.

Psychologist Angela Murray’s work covers a broad age group. Her extensive experience and areas of expertise are detailed below. Adults
Angela has extensive experience working with adult in both a hospital inpatient setting and private outpatient setting. Her experience includes work with:

• accident trauma patients
• chronically ill
• adjustment, phobias and mood in relation to diabetes
• assessing and supporting mental health and healthy coping with hep c and hep c treatment.

Youth and family
Angela’s work with youths and families includes having worked as a school counsellor (all ages) working with anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, family separation, cognitive assessments. Her youth and family work also includes working with:

• mood
• eating disorders
• anxiety
• interpersonal relationships and family struggles.

Addiction and rehabilitation
Angela has worked at Byron Private Residential Rehab as the primary therapist (group and individual therapy) for the past two years, working with a range of complex presentations including:

• childhood trauma
• single incident and Defense Force related trauma
• drug and alcohol addiction
• eating disorders
• depression, anxiety and grief.

“I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults to help them have a better understanding of who they are, what their needs are and how to meet them in a healthy and sustainable way, especially in relation to anxiety, depression, addiction, and eating disorders, and helping clients to learn to communicate (interpersonal skills) with themselves and others in a healthy and self-responsible way.” Working with clients who have received a physical health diagnosis is also an area of particular interest to Angela. “I help clients adjust to a health condition diagnosis and learn how to care for their psychological health to support the challenges they faced with their physical health. Physical health problems take a huge toll one’s psychological wellbeing, which undermines the things they need most to cope with the health problems, including their identity and self-worth, which are imperative to overall wellbeing.” The opportunity to work collaboratively with other health professionals is of great appeal to Angela. “I think it’s essential to work closely with other health professionals because of the interaction between physical, mental, and social health. Most of the places I have worked, I have worked in a multidisciplinary team and understand the value of a ‘whole person’ approach to wellness in which the team discuss what the clients goals are, what is within capacity, and the role each member plays in helping the client toward this path.” When she is not working, Angela enjoys playing tennis, hanging with her two little boys, and going to the beach.

App. Sc (Physiotherapy) - Sydney University Graduation Certificate of Sports Physiotherapy - La Trobe University Masters of Sports Physiotherapy - La Trobe University Registration No: PY0147795 With 14 years’ extensive practical experience and a commitment to ongoing education and training, Danielle (Danni) Turner offers clients a tailored, innovative and holistic approach to physiotherapy. A special interest in Sports Physiotherapy has seen her talents utilised by Touch Football Australia and athletes in the world surfing league, as well as professional and non-professional sportspeople both nationally and internationally. Danni adapts these elite learnings and techniques to assist everyday patients looking to treat injuries, manage pain and improve their overall wellbeing. Danni is currently undertaking a Masters of Sports Physiotherapy through La Trobe University, which has given her a deeper understanding of the biomechanics of the sporting body, along with the ability to apply evidence-based treatment to manage chronic pain and implement injury prevention strategies. A sports enthusiast herself, Danni understands that no two bodies or injuries are the same, and she applies an individual approach designed to engage patients in achieving their personal goals. Pregnancy and post-natal care, including pelvic floor issues, is also a special interest area. Combing state-of-art technologies, and innovative techniques and practices with an easy going, understanding manner, Danni is able achieve outstanding results for her patients. Danni grew up locally, and has returned to the region with her young family after studying and working in Sydney for several years. Danni works closely with the expert team of Allied Health professionals and Doctors to ensure her patients receive optimal, integrative care. SPECIAL INTERESTS:  

• Sports injury treatment
• Sports injury prevention
• Management of chronic pain
• Neck pain and headaches
• Back and neck pain – assessment and treatment
• Upper and lower limb injuries
• Pregnancy and postnatal issues
• Workplace assessments and screening
• Video analysis and biofeedback
• Outdoor knee and ankle rehabilitation programs
• Waterproof fibreglass casting services
• Camwalker boots (supply and fit)
• Ice pump/compression
• Sports specific screening such as swimming, pre-pointe ballet assessments
• Balance assessments and training

Bachelor of Psychology - University of Canberra Bachelor of Applied Science - University of Canberra Masters of Physiotherapy - University of Canberra With eight years’ practical experience, physiotherapist Andrew Olson is passionate about all aspects of physiotherapy, principally treating exercise and sporting related injuries and assisting people in returning to their chosen activity after injury. Using the principals of functional rehabilitation to help people get the most out of their bodies, Andrew believes physiotherapy can play an equally important role in prevention as it does in rehabilitation. “We all expect a lot from our bodies, in very different ways,” Andrew says. “Whether you are a sportsperson, a parent, dealing with chronic pain or working in an office, there are a variety of pressures we place on our bodies. Physiotherapy can play a vital role in addressing issues that arise from our individual lifestyles, and also in preventing strain or injury.” Andrew is also a passionate yoga teacher and believes the principals of yoga go hand-in-hand with many of those of physiotherapy. “Yoga is the most wonderful practice, and has so many benefits for the body as well as the mind,” he says. Andrew strongly believes in addressing the psychological aspects of physical health. He says this is part of the reason he is so excited to be part of First Light Healthcare’s Allied Health team which includes physiotherapists, dietitians, massage therapists, psychologists, and acupuncturists. “No one aspect of health is a stand-alone aspect,” Andrew says. “Everything is connected, and sometimes a client will benefit from addressing more than one aspect at a time. Especially where physical pain or limitations are concerned, there is a psychological impact that should be considered in order to get the best physical outcome. “Being part of the Allied Health team at First Light Healthcare means that when required, we can take a truly holistic approach to a patient’s overall wellbeing.” Andrew has extensive experience working in:  

• Sports Injury Treatment
• Sports Injury Prevention
• Functional Rehabilitation
• Neck and Back pain
• Running Technique Assessments
• Cycling Biomechanic Assessments
• Yoga Injuries
• Specific Sports screening - AFL / Cricket / Running / Triathlon
• Shoulder Injuries and Rehabilitation
• Post Operative Rehabilitation

A keen surfer and former Rugby Union player, Troy helps athletes, as well as everyday people, to overcome sporting and musculoskeletal aches and pains and deal with injuries.

He belongs to Sports Medicine Australia and the Australian Physiotherapy Association.

Between 1999 and 2016, Troy, who is also a registered nurse, travelled the world as the Australian Surf Life Saving Team physiotherapist, visiting some of the world’s best beaches.

He continues to compete in Surf Life Saving events and still loves surfing his short board – he’s even surfed the famous Jeffries Bay in South Africa.

Locally, Troy has chaired Byron Bay Surf Life Saving Club’s Junior Activities Group and continues to organise the annual Byron Board Paddle, cancelled this year because of Covid-19. Nationally, he also has many credits to his name.

Troy has been the team physiotherapist for the Kelloggs Nutri-Grain Ironman and Ironwoman Series for the past 15 years and looked after National Rugby League Clubs and Central Coast Mariners A League team in 2007. He was also the physiotherapist adviser on Surf Life Saving Australia’s National Medical Panel for 13 years.

In private practice for 24 years, he consulted to companies including Qantas, Sanitarium Health Foods, the National Aboriginal and Islander Dance Academy, and at representative level in Rugby Union.

His knowledge of staying fit and healthy, no matter what your age, is something he is looking forward to sharing as part of the First Light Healthcare team at Ballina.

PT, BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

Nicola graduated with an Honours degree in Physiotherapy in 2000 and started specialising in Hand Therapy in 2003.

Since 2003, Nicola has worked in large hospitals, private practices and as an MSc University Lecturer in the UK.

Nicola attained the Accredited Hand Therapist (BAHT) certificate in 2008 and re-certified in 2013.

Working in several private practices in Sydney for 8 years, including a very busy practice in central Sydney with renowned surgeons and internationally prominent clientele, Nicola has built a reputation as a leader in her field.

Nicola’s work involves detailed assessment of the hand, wrist and forearm including muscle testing, strength evaluation and strengthening programs; post-operative management; splinting; tendon rehabilitation; sensory assessments and retraining; functional restoration.

The conditions Nicola treats include sports injuries; fractures; wrist instability and ligament injuries; tendonitis, tendonosis, tendinopathy; carpal tunnel; CRPS; Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Since moving to the Northern Rivers and expanding her young family, Nicola has worked at Lismore Base Hospital as a Hand Therapist and now joins the team at Cape Byron Medical Centre to provide Hand Therapy in a Private Practice setting. Nicola is a published author, with ‘Pain: A Textbook for Health Professionals’ released in February 2014.

She has enjoyed treating a variety of patients, from those with everyday hand conditions to International sporting figures. Nicola has held the Accredited Hand Therapist (BAHT) certification since 2008 and have been a Full Member of the Australian Hand Therapy Association since 2009; and has been an AHTA Accredited Hand Therapist status from its inception in January 2018. Previously, Nicola was one of the AHTA's NSW State Coordinators, in 2015 and 2016. This included sitting on the State and Territories subcommittee, where she enjoyed learning more about the work of the AHTA and being able to support and advocate for Hand Therapy Practitioners in NSW.

Nicola was AHTA President in 2018 and President Elect in 2017. Nicola is passionate about hands and the profession and was excited and honoured to be a part of the AHTA Management Committee, contributing to the future direction of the AHTA and the practice of Hand Therapy in Australia.

A physiotherapist for more than two decades, Ruth originally gained a Bachelor of Applied Sciences Degree from the University of Sydney and worked in musculoskeletal and sports medicine clinics in Sydney.

Following her own pregnancy and recovery, she was inspired to take a special interest in pelvic health, and has since undertaken extensive, post-graduate training in women’s pelvic health including a Certificate in Pelvic Organ Prolapse Management through the University of South Australia.

Ruth has spent the last five years working with a full pelvic floor caseload at a busy gynaecological tertiary referral centre in Sydney.

She has a passion for assisting clients of all ages to improve their pelvic health and particular expertise in:

• Pelvic pain and endometriosis
• Pelvic organ prolapse including pessary fitting
• Urinary and faecal incontinence
• Prenatal pelvic floor risk assessment and post-natal recovery
• Gynaecological and breast cancer rehabilitation
• Mastitis treatment
• Gender reassignment rehabilitation

  Ruth is on the clinical advisory council for Endometriosis Australia and is currently writing research with a university group on chronic pelvic pain. She also teaches GP registrars as well as physiotherapists.

Ruth takes a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, including education, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise and mindfulness.

She is a certified Pilates and yoga teacher and treats both the internal and external pelvic structures to achieve outstanding results for her clients.

A Ballina local, Ruth has three children and enjoys the opportunities the Northern Rivers presents for her family to stay fit and healthy.      

Accredited Practicing Dietitian and Sports Dietitian
Master of Nutrition and Dietetics

As successful athlete for over 15 years, Pip Taylor knows the vitally important role diet plays in our health, wellbeing and performance.
As part of the Cape Byron Medical Centre’s Allied Health team, Pip, an Accredited Practicing Dietitian and Sports Dietitian, works with a range of clients including professional and non-professional sportspeople, as well as everyday clients wanting to ensure they are fuelling their bodies in the best way possible.
Pip has an intimate knowledge of performance nutrition, and has worked with professional athletes and teams, as well as high-achieving corporates, implement nutritional strategies which have played a key role in their success.
Through Pip, every client has access to the elite strategies she uses for professional sportspeople, tailored in a realistic way to suit each client’s individual lifestyle and needs.
Education is one of Pip’s passions and she is constantly updating her skills and knowledge through additional training, study and reading. Recognised as a leading name in her industry, Pip is also a sought-after author, speaker and writer. Sharing her knowledge with clients, and helping them understand science-based nutritional information is a key part of Pip’s work; allowing clients to separate the fads from the facts and make the best nutritional choices possible.
As well as nutritional training and education, Pip will also be offering a range of advanced services including Anthropometry (tracking body size, structure and composition); Gut microbiome testing; and Immunological profiling, as well as selected personal services such as family consults; shopping and home cooking skills training; and customised team/group presentations and workshops.

SPECIAL INTERESTS
- Nutrition
- Sports Nutrition
- Anthropometry
- Gut microbiome testing
- Immunological profiling

Bachelor of Nursing

Graduate Diploma in Emergency Nursing

Coral Williamson has been with Cape Byron Medical Centre for 12 years, supporting the practitioners and attending to patients with her caring, easy-going manner.

Working side-by-side with the team of GPs, Coral has extensive experience in all facets of nursing.

At the core of everything Coral does in the clinic is a dedication to treating every patient with respect and kindness.

Bachelor of Nursing

Judy Byrne is a credentialled diabetes educator with many years’ experience in assisting people to manage their type 2 diabetes.

She has a keen interest in early intervention and works with patients to prevent them developing Type 2 diabetes, if they are diagnosed with insulin resistance or pre- diabetes.

Judy guides patients to understand their diabetes, learn how it affects them personally and prevent/minimise future health risks of diabetes.

Judy has experience in the insertion and interpretation of the Freestyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system. This small sensor worn in your arm can give you instant data that may improve your diabetes management.

As a Diabetes Educator Judy hopes to increase your knowledge of your diabetes, the medications you take, how they work and their possible side effects. She will also educate about the effects that diabetes can have on other parts of the body aiming to prevent future eye disease, kidney failure, heart attack and stroke.

Judy is happy to support Type 1 diabetes patients in collaboration with their endocrinologist and GP.

With a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Monash University, Emily enjoys assisting both patients and our GPs with skin procedures, wound care and preparing care plans for chronic health conditions. After completing her graduate year in both general medicine and perioperative nursing at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, in 2014, she worked casually as a practice nurse and, later, as a perioperative nurse with Alfred Health. In this role, Emily assisted in elective and emergency cases for orthopaedics, obstetrics, gynaecology, Ear Nose and Throat, ophthalmology, urology and general surgery. Emily also became an accredited immuniser in 2016. After moving to Byron Bay in 2018, she worked at Holdsworth House Medical Clinic as practice nurse, where she was able to utilise many of her nursing skills. Emily has also built community ties as a First Aid volunteer and through the Byron café she owns with her partner, The Avocado Hut. Because of her strong interest in supporting patients during challenging times, as well as her passion for good nutrition, Emily is now studying naturopathy and life coaching. She is also a qualified yoga teacher, vinyasa and yin yoga teacher. Emily continues to update her nursing education through the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association.

A celebrated artist, gallerist and visual arts educator, Paula Bannan, has over two decades of professional experience, with her work taking its place in important collections both nationally and internationally.

Through her work as creative coach, Paula uses the painting medium to address a variety of mental health and emotional issues including stress, anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma.

Paula uses art to help clients access emotions that may be unexpressed or suppressed, and to encourage exploration of the clients feelings around what they have created and the process they have undertaken.

Paula believes art and creative pursuits can be as useful in addressing mental health issues as other more traditionally recognised treatments. Alternatively, creative coaching can be used in conjunction with other modalities to give a fuller, broader treatment approach.

“Art stimulates right brain activity, where our creativity happens,” Paula says. “Engaging that right brain is really useful in dealing with a variety of issues, especially anxiety, stress and depression.”

Paula uses the free painting technique, which she says is non-threatening and enjoyable for clients.

“All of my sessions start with me ‘destroying’ that big scary white canvas,” she says. “We mess it up, so we can paint over it and start again. It’s a great way to loosen clients up so they can explore their creativity without fear, and it’s a pretty good visual representation of what we are trying to achieve.”

Paula says the results creative coaching achieves are exceptional, regardless of the client’s perceived artistic ‘ability’.

“The idea that there are good and bad artists is nonsense,” Paula says. “There are more experienced artists, and artists who have chosen to become professionals, but I do not believe there is such a thing as a bad artist. They just don’t exist.”

Paula works with a variety of clients, from corporate executives dealing with excessive stress, to people dealing with addiction, to those looking to address anxiety and depression. She tailors her sessions to suit each individual, and the process can be an ongoing or short-term one.

“Each client responds differently, and in a way that is right for them,” Paula says. “While I have certain things that are the same with each session, I really try to work with the client to create an atmosphere that is unique to them and designed to make them comfortable and open to the experience,” Paula says. “I have worked with so many people, from high-powered CEOs to other creatives, to everyday people looking for a creative outlet, and I really have found that creative coaching just never fails. People respond to the experience and are usually very surprised at the emotions it unlocks and the peace that comes with the process.”

Ensuring the efficient running of all First Light Healthcare clinics and offerings, Operations Director Kylie Arthur has been a vital part of the team since 2016. Kylie has extensive experience in all aspects of administration and practice management and continually strives to improve her skills, and implement new and effective processes to ensure the Clinic is run in the most professional way possible. With patient care always her top priority, Kylie works to ensure the clinics' busy schedules run smoothly and all aspects of patient care are thoroughly followed up and administered in a timely manner. Overseeing First Light Healthcare's administration and reception teams with a calm and friendly approach, Kylie takes pride in making sure each patient receives respectful, considerate care throughout every step of the process. Outside her busy role, Kylie spends her downtime relaxing with friends and family.

Growing up in Kyogle, the Northern Rivers town known as The Gateway to the Rainforest, Stephanie has always appreciated the warmth of community. She loves her interaction with staff and patients and being able to provide care at different stages of life for those who pass through a medical centre. After a stint in dental nursing, in her hometown, Stephanie moved to Darwin in 2015 with her husband and young family. It was there she began her foray into the medical arena, working for occupational and corporate health provider Sonic HealthPlus as the Assistant Practice Manager. As well as working to ensure the practice ran efficiently, Stephanie helped conduct drug and alcohol testing, spirometries, audio tests, and general employment checks for clients. Returning to Ballina to be closer to family in 2018, she took up a position as Practice Manager of Tintenbar Medical Centre. Stephanie has three children, two of whom currently attend St Francis Xavier Primary School, and she enjoys spending time with her family at the beach. She is a keen baker and well-known in all her roles as the provider of delicious cake and slices and organiser of get-togethers and social activities. When at home, she loves to entertain. Not surprisingly, Stephanie values organisation, one of the reasons she will excel in her current role.  

With extensive experience in overseeing the implementation of multi-faceted patient care programs, Catherine MacPherson joined Cape Byron Medical Centre in January 2018 as practice manager of the Clinic’s Allied Health division.

The Allied Health division offers patients a new level of holistic care, bringing together a group of specialists and professionals, working with patients and GPs to provide a multi-discipline approach to healthcare.

Catherine works with this team of professionals to guarantee the smooth and efficient management of the division, and ensure each patient receives the highest standard of care possible.

Providing an invaluable liaison between the Clinic and the Allied Health specialist providers, Catherine holds the patient’s best interest at the heart of everything she does.

Catherine is dedicated to creating innovative, streamlined approaches to health and wellbeing.

A self-confessed fitness fanatic, when she isn’t working Catherine spends her time enjoying everything our beautiful region has to offer including walking, spending time at the local markets and hanging out with her partner.

             

               

With her personable manner and positive attitude, Emma is a favourite with patients and staff.

She welcomes everyone to the clinic with a friendly smile and is never too busy to assist with a request.

Moving to Byron from Sydney’s Northern Beaches in 2019, Emma previously worked as a studio producer at an advertising company, and as a medical receptionist. The latter role included working for a neurologist.

On her days off Emma enjoys beach and Lighthouse walks and working on orders for her side hustle, a custom art print business called Emma Alice Designs.

As the first person patients see when they enter the clinic, Karen always strives to make a warm connection. She believes in professional, yet personal, service and has been in medical reception for more than 34 years. She’s a people person who is also positive and helpful.

Originally from Sydney, Karen spent 12 years at Port Macquarie Medical Centre, before moving to Lennox Head with her husband and two sons in 2000.

She will be well-known to patients who have attended Lennox Medical Centre, former Ballina clinic Park Mall Medical Centre, and Tintenbar Medical Centre.

Karen has seen patients come into her workplace as young adults and go on to marry, and have children of their own, who are then cared for in the medical practices in which she has worked. It is the connections she makes throughout this cycle of life that has encouraged her to remain in her role.

In her spare time, Karen likes to keep fit and active, by walking and doing regular Pilates classes. She is also an accomplished tennis player and a snow skier who, until Covid-19, has travelled to Japan every winter season with her family.