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

Hugh graduated from the University of New South Wales in 1997 and obtained his fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 2001. Progressive, patient-centred healthcare is at the heart Dr Hugh MacLeod’s work.   Hugh’s medical interests include the management of chronic illness including coronary heart disease, diabetes and HIV infection, as well as sexual health and travel medicine.   Recently, Hugh has developed an interest in Gender Affirming Medicine, working with empathy, compassion and professionalism to deliver treatments to affirm and support. Hugh can advise adults on hormone therapy through a process of informed consent, tailor appropriate mental health care and peer support, and assist people navigate gender affirming surgery.   Hugh graduated from the University of NSW in 1997 and obtained his fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) in 2001. He is a member of the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine (ASHM) and the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health (AusPATH).   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.   Special Interests: General medicine Coronary heart disease Diabetes Chronic illness including cancer, liver disease and autoimmune disease HIV Medicine, Sexual Health, Viral Hepatitis & PrEP for HIV Prevention Gender Affirming Medicine

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.

Dr Vrisha Ker graduated from the University of Cape Town, South Africa in 2007 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). After post-graduate hospital and general practice training, she then spent some time working in emergency medicine, primary health care and perinatal health/neonatology before settling into general practice.

Her curiosity of living and working abroad took her to Canada, where she completed her specialist training in Family Medicine (CCFP) while working as a rural hospitalist in emergency and general medicine before trading the snowy prairies for the beachside to settle in the Northern Rivers region in 2019 to continue in General Practice as a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

Her special interests in General Practice are mental health and preventative medicine. She is fascinated by the breakthrough research and science in the field of the human microbiome and digestive health, studying how these factors affect our physical and mental health. Because of this foundational understanding, Vrisha has always been passionate about addressing the root causes of ill health, prevention of chronic disease and strives to restore wellness in a holistic and compassionate manner.

When not tending to her patients, Vrisha enjoys yoga, hiking and tends to her plants and veggie patch.

Michael grew up in the Northern Rivers, completing his undergraduate MBBS degree from the University of Melbourne in 2007. Michael received his Fellowship of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine in 2014. Michael has completed numerous additional post-graduate qualifications in the field of skin cancer including Professional Certificate in Skin Cancer Medicine, Professional Certificate in Skin Cancer Surgery, and Professional Certificate in Dermoscopy. Michael is an accredited skin cancer Doctor with the Skin Cancer college of Australasia and is committed to providing excellent standard of care in skin cancer medicine and surgery, and seeks to continually expand his professional knowledge and skills.

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

Dr. Kelly graduated from The University of Notre Dame Sydney in 2018 following previous studies in Medical Radiation Science and Nutrition & Dietetics. After moving here from The Central Coast, she has worked at both Ballina and Lismore Hospitals before finding her home at First Light Healthcare. Kelly is interested in both Women's and Men's Health, with a focus on preventative care. She believes it’s important to build strong and trusting relationships with her patients, recognising that medicine is not just about treating symptoms but also about understanding the individual behind the condition. Kelly's goal is to empower patients so they feel confident in making their own health choices, with an emphasis on embracing healthy lifestyle practices. Kelly is renowned for her friendly and approachable nature. She understands the importance of creating a comfortable and supportive environment during medical consultations. With a collaborative approach to decision-making, she ensures that her patients are fully informed about their health conditions and treatment options. Her goal is to empower her patients, so they feel confident in making their own health choices, with an emphasis on embracing healthy lifestyle practices. Outside of her medical practice, Kelly is an active enthusiast of fitness and wellness. She enjoys running along the beach, engaging in too many Les Mills classes and can sometimes be found watching terrible reality TV. With a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate heart, Dr. Kelly is dedicated to making a positive impact on her patients' lives, promoting wellbeing, and spreading smiles wherever she goes.

After completing her undergraduate medical degree in 2015 at the University of Manchester, Dr Sandison made the move to Australia in 2018 and started her GP training in Byron Bay early 2021.

Harriet has a special interest in Women’s Health and hopes to explore this area in depth during her time with First Light Healthcare. She also has an academic post at the URCH involving a research project, which investigates contraceptive choices of young women in rural areas of NSW.

When she’s not working, Harriet is kept busy with her gorgeous one-year-old and beautiful dog Daisy, making time for the gym, beach, and cooking.

Dr Felicity Booy graduated from James Cook Medical School in 2007. After completing her internship at Royal Darwin Hospital, she worked throughout Queensland undertaking various rotations including Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry, Gynaecology, and Paediatrics. In 2012, Felicity began her GP training in the Northern Rivers, gaining fellowship with the Royal College of General Practitioners in 2015. Felicity enjoys all aspects of General Practice, with a focus on ongoing, long-term care of patients.  She is strongly guided by current best practice, and endeavours to ensure patients receive high level care with a solid evidence base.  She enjoys seeing patients in all walks of life, and practices medicine in a caring, compassionate manner.  Felicity enjoys getting to know her patients and their families and believes this to be a good foundational base to providing quality medical care throughout the different life stages. Felicity enjoys all aspects of family medicine, including pregnancy and the postnatal period, and seeing children of all developmental ages and stages.   She is adept at assisting people to manage their chronic diseases, helping in the implementation lifestyle changes, and coordinating the care of specialists and allied healthcare as required.  Felicity also has extra training in skin cancer medicine, and can perform full skin checks, manage skin cancers and perform basic excisions.  She has a Certificate of Dermoscopy and Skin Cancer Medicine from the Skin Cancer College of Australia.

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

Dr Natasha Stark has lived and worked in the Northern Rivers for many years, spending 4 years working at Lismore Base Hospital before transitioning to General Practice.

Natasha is passionate about preventative health and particularly enjoys working in Women's Health, Paediatrics, Chronic Disease and Mental Health. She understands the value of holistic, patient- centred care and the importance of developing a strong therapeutic relationship in order to provide excellent clinical care. With a strong belief in multidisciplinary healthcare, she is excited to be a part of the First Light Healthcare team.

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.  

Dr Tim Wood is a specialist in sport and exercise medicine (SEM).

He sees and manages patients of all levels of sporting or athletic abilities and ages as well as non-sporting patients with a variety of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic problems.

Tim is skilled at undertaking cortisone, autologous blood and viscosupplementation injections if clinically indicated.

He has provided consultancy services to a number of elite athletes, teams, and organisations. These have included Geelong AFL premiership teams (2007 and 2009), the AFL draft camp, Richmond Football Club, the Melbourne Rebels, Wallabies and Rugby World Cup.

From 2002-2017 Tim was the Chief Medical Officer of the Australian Open and Tennis Australia. He was a member of the International Tennis Federation Sport Science and Medicine Commission from 2004-11.

Tim regularly presents at international, and national SEM conferences as well as conducting education programs for general practitioners and other allied health professionals including physiotherapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. He is currently supervising a final year SEM registrar.

Dr Glastonbury completed his medical training at the University of Queensland and his fellowship training in Toowoomba. During his fellowship, Stuart focused on rural and remote medicine as well as Aboriginal health. Over the past few years while living in Northern NSW, Stuart has turned his attention to exercise and sports medicine. Dr Glastonbury is an advocate for preventative healthcare, striving to deliver healthcare without any bias, judgement or discrimination. Outside of work, Stuart is a passionate skateboarder and snowboarder and has recently obtained his open water dive certification. He is looking forward to travelling the world again skateboarding, snowboarding and diving with his partner and children. Qualifications include: FRACGP, Bachelor of Medical Science (BSc Medsci). Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) University of Queensland Grad Dip of Child Health.

Dr Carlota Cunha

Holding a Master’s degree in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Coimbra, Portugal (2013), Carlota trained for 4 years as a Neurology resident at Saint Anthony Hospital in Porto (Portugal). There she worked in the Emergency Department and Stroke Unit and participated in clinical research trials. Whilst taking a gap year to travel, Carlota fell in love with Australia and discovered her passion for General Practice and community care. With interests in Women’s Health, Mental Health and Integrative Medicine, Carlota has an Advanced Certificate in Skin Cancer Medicine (Healthcert), and also works at the Urgent Care Clinic in Lismore, which aims to relieve the pressure on rural emergency departments and reduce rural GP’s workload.

Laura graduated with a triple degree from The University of Melbourne in 2006 and obtained her fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in 2012. She moved to the Ballina region in 2011 and has worked in the local region as a GP ever since. Laura loves the variety that every consult and day brings working as a GP. Her areas of special interest include paediatrics (holds a Diploma in Child Health from The University of Sydney), skin cancer medicine and dermatology, women's and sexual health. When Laura is not working, she enjoys most watersports (swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, sailing), musical theatre (watching and performing) and performing daggy magic tricks to any and all unsuspecting folks. Please note* Dr Laura Taylor does not Bulk Bill Children under 16 years of age.

Dr Konsten has recently migrated from her home-country, the Netherlands, to Australia. She graduated with two master’s degrees: A Master of Medicine and Global Health from the University of Maastricht in 2014.

Following this, Sarah has gained experience as a registrar in Neurology, Pulmonology, Cardiology, and Internal Medicine, and has conducted research in the field of Tuberculosis in Sub-Saharan Africa. She graduated as a general practitioner in 2021 from the University of Leiden, the Netherlands.

After working in many specific fields, Sarah enjoys the aspect of being a generalist as a family doctor, as she can treat people from all ages and backgrounds.

Dr Konsten believes that honest and open communication is the key to a healthy doctor-patient relationship, and the most important aspect of a consultation.

When she’s not working, Sarah enjoys exploring everything our beauty area has to offer, together with her husband and 2-year-old son. They love to hike and enjoy camping adventures.

B.Med (Hons), MSc (Hons), B Comms, Cert Sexual and Reproductive Health, FRACGP Jo specialises in perimenopause, menopause and mid-life health. She is dedicated to helping women navigate through the menopause transition, and set themselves up to live and age well. She helps patients find a tailored solution for their menopausal symptoms that may include hormone replacement therapy, non-hormonal therapy, lifestyle changes, exercise and nutrition. Jo is an active member of the Australasian Menopause Society, International Menopause Society, and Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society. Jo inserts IUD’s and Implanon, and has expertise in vulval disorders. She works closely with in-house physiotherapists to manage pelvic floor dysfunction, incontinence and overactive bladders. She is passionate about aging well, and works with local exercise physiologists to promote evidence-based programs that improve bone, brain and heart health. Jo is also committed to breast and cervical cancer screening, and educating women about early symptoms and self checking. She is working locally to expand participation in cervical screening through self-collection, and volunteers each year with communities throughout the Pacific to increase women’s access to cervical screening.

Dr Tim Peacock - Clinical Lecturer, in the Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, the University of Sydney (affiliation) Dr Tim Peacock grew up in Adelaide and graduated from Flinders University in 1992. After moving to Sydney for his internship he was lucky enough to be posted to Lismore Base Hospital. Tim then completed his GP Fellowship in Sydney in 1998. He returned to the Northern Rivers in 2001 working as a Rural GP and as a contracted doctor at Lismore Base and Ballina Hospital Emergency Departments, roles he still fulfills. Tim enjoys the broad variety that rural general practice offers and in 2009 he spent a year working in Indigenous Health in the Torres Strait where his young family also experienced living in a remote community. Gaining advanced skills in skin cancer medicine and surgery both in rural general practice and with over 15 years of Plastic Surgical assisting, Tim sub-specialised in skin cancer management in 2015, and this remains his primary focus. He is an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor with the Skin Cancer College of Australasia. Tim’s goal is to provide a comprehensive skin cancer assessment and management service that includes sequential digital dermoscopic imaging, skin cancer simple excisions as well as more complex skin cancer surgery with skin flaps and skin grafts where appropriate.

Haydn:

Dr Haydn Dodds is a GP Registrar with a passion for quality, personalised care.

Dr Dodds has a broad clinical background and after completing his medical degree on the Gold Coast he chose to start his career out in the Northern Territory. After 2 years in the Top End, he returned to work at the Princess Alexandra, Queensland’s largest surgical hospital.

Throughout his varied experiences, Dr Dodds has acquired a broad skill set and enjoys the breadth of General Practice. He has a particular interest in Orthopaedics, Men’s Health and Paediatrics.

Whilst originally hailing from Canberra, he has come to call the Northern Rivers home. He welcomes new patients of all backgrounds to work with him in caring for their health.

Special Interests:

Paediatrics Men’s Health Orthopedics

Dr. Heidi Spillane is an empathetic and experienced GP and Sexual Health physician with a remarkable career path. She completed her GP training in the Byron area in 2009, where she fell in love with the lifestyle and always harboured the desire to return. A yearning for adventure led her to work with Medecins Sans Frontiers on HIV/TB projects in various countries including China, Uganda, Kenya, and PNG. Her passion for sexual health then steered her to busy Sexual Health clinics in London and Sydney, eventually culminating in her completion of specialist training in Sexual Health in 2018. Dr. Spillane's professional experience spans a wide spectrum, from remote Aboriginal clinics to state-of-the-art GP practices in Sydney. Her commitment to inspiring and bringing hope to patients and improving their physical and mental health has led her to her current studies with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine. She enjoys working with a diverse range of patients and presentations, in particular those with sexual health needs including STIs, PrEP and HIV. Her main focus remains on working collaboratively with patients to achieve the best possible outcomes for their health and well-being. Now, with a young family in tow, she has relocated to the Byron area, driven by a desire to embrace a healthy lifestyle, foster a sense of community, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. In her free time she practices yoga, loves the ocean and underwater dance.

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 Elizabeth Margules believes in the use of psychology not only as a treatment, both short and long term, but as a preventative strategy. Her approach is developmentally and psychodynamically informed and she is trained and experienced in a range of modalities, including motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy in particular for anxiety, depression, PTSD and sleep, as well as dialectical behaviour therapy and Schema Therapy. Elizabeth is passionate about working with teenagers through to the older adults in the treatment of traumatic experiences.   Her gentle, trauma informed approach is focused on listening and identifying the unique issues an individual is facing, as well as providing support to develop the tools necessary to develop and flourish.

Accredited Mental Health Social Worker Melinda Temple First Light Healthcare is pleased to Introduce Accredited Mental Health Social Worker Melinda Temple. Working with a diverse range of client groups and psychosocial presentations in different settings, Melinda has a special interest in perinatal loss, adjustments to parenting, complex trauma, postnatal depression, adjustment disorders and couples counselling. Melinda also has extensive experience and passion for working with survivors of interpersonal violence, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse adult sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, domestic violence and victims of crime. Melinda’s practice is informed by a range of approaches, some of which include attachment/developmental psychology, post-modern feminism, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, post-Milan systemic family therapy, trauma-informed stabilisation therapy and mentalisation-based therapy. Melinda conceptualises individual clients as relational beings, and therefore understands the importance of connection within the therapeutic relationship being the agent for positive change.

• Melinda Temple is a Clinical Social Worker and member of the Australian Association of Social Workers
• Melinda is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Medicare provider; and can see individuals with a Mental Health Care Plan
• Melinda offers psychosocial assessment and counselling to individuals and couples, aged 16 and above
• Melinda provides individuals with NDIS funding (plan or self-managed only)
• Melinda is an Approved Victim’s Services Counsellor

Megan grew up on the Sunshine Coast and moved to Brisbane to attend university where she studied a Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Queensland. She has 15 years experience working with mental health in hospital based, community and private practice settings. Megan has worked with a wide range of mental health concerns and enjoys working with clients that are experiencing difficulty with anxiety, depression, trauma and stress management. She is passionate about offering skills and tools that empower people to better manage their mental health and situation they are faced with. She is a firm believer that therapy can be life changing and rewarding. She enjoys working with teens and adults. When she's not working, Meg enjoys spending time with her husband, kids and beloved family dog.

Juliet qualified from the University of The Witwatersrand, South Africa, with a BSc Physiotherapy in 2005. She then moved to London where she worked for 8 years and gained a wealth of experience and developed a special interest in working with Neurological patients. Juliet worked in a stroke team, rehabilitation units as well as in a multidisciplinary team dedicated to progressive neurological conditions (primarily Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Motor Neuron Disease). Juliet also worked within a team for People with Learning Disabilities. Juliet then moved back to South Africa in 2014 where she started her own business which focused on caring for, treating and rehabilitating clients following injury/illness/operations in their homes. Whilst in South Africa, Juliet also completed a course in Paediatric Bowel and Bladder Management and Dysfunction and developed a newfound passion in assisting children and their families who struggled with bed wetting, toilet training and constipation. Juliet got married and had 2 children in South Africa. She immigrated with her family to Australia in 2022.   Juliet assesses and treats individuals with neurological conditions such as brain or Spinal cord injury, stroke, or have progressive neurological conditions, and treats children aged between 2 and 16 who suffer from continence issues such as toilet training issues, bed wetting and constipation.

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

Bonny Riddle BEquineSc, BSc(Hons),GradDipEd (Secondary),BSES,MCEP, AES,AEP,ASCA L1 Coach Bonny is an accredited exercise physiologist and exercise scientist with a passion for helping others improve their health through evidence-based exercise interventions. Originally from Ballina, Bonny’s journey into exercise physiology started slightly differently. A love of horses, led her to Wagga Wagga, NSW, to study equine science straight after high school. During her seven years in Wagga Wagga, Bonny pursued further study and research in equine exercise physiology, focusing specifically on the effects of exertional rhabdomyolysis in endurance horses. In 2016, Bonny returned home to the Northern Rivers, seeking a change in career. Since late 2017, she has worked as a science teacher in high schools across the region. However, in 2019, after undergoing shoulder stabilisation surgery due to a previous horse-related accident, Bonny’s passion for exercise physiology was reignited, this time with a focus on humans. Her deep interest in the rehabilitation process and its impact on her recovery led her to enrol at Southern Cross University in Lismore, where she trained to become an accredited exercise physiologist and exercise scientist. Bonny’s wide-ranging experiences and passion for learning anchor her values as an exercise physiologist. She provides an evidence-based, client-centred approach to each patient, believing that exercise is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent chronic disease, improve mental health, and complement conventional disease treatment. While Bonny understands the serious role of exercise in overall well-being at all stages of life, she also believes exercise should be fun and engaging. She dedicates her time to ensuring an individualised approach to each person’s needs, recognising that this is crucial in fostering a sustainable exercise journey rather than just a temporary solution. Having personally undergone rehabilitation, Bonny understands the challenges and triumphs that come with recovery, shaping her empathetic and patient-centred approach. When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find Bonny at the beach with her spoodle, working out at her local CrossFit gym, or enjoying early morning coffee with friends. Bonny’s special interests include: Osteoporosis - Weight training for women’s health during perimenopause and menopause - Mental health and trauma-informed practice in exercise prescription and delivery - Exercise prescription for dysautonomia (including POTS) - Exercise in the management and rehabilitation of neurological conditions

Bachelor of Psychology - University of Canberra Bachelor of Applied Science - University of Canberra Masters of Physiotherapy - University of Canberra With over 13 years’ experience working with athletes of all levels, physiotherapist Andrew Olson is passionate about all aspects of physiotherapy. He prides himself on treating a wide range of exercise and sporting related injuries efficiently and assisting people return to their chosen activity as soon as possible after an injury. This may be an acute incident or a niggle that slowly starts to impact your life. “Whether you are a sportsperson, a parent, dealing with chronic pain or working in an office, we are constantly placing daily stress on our body. Physiotherapy can play a vital role in finding a balance to ensure we use these stresses as a catalyst to grow stronger both physically and emotionally.” Andy is a passionate runner and assists runners of all levels to minimise the impact of injuries and find an efficient and enjoyable running style. “Running should be fun! When runners become injured they have often fallen into the mindset that running is hard work and in turn their running technique becomes hard work. If we can see running as a skill that can be improved we can quite quickly change our mindset and our running style from hard work to efficient and enjoyable.” Andy not only treats running injuries he also provides running assessments where he will video you running and analyse how you can adjust your technique and transition into an efficient and enjoyable running style. Andy combines his time as a Physiotherapist with teaching Yoga and believes the principals, of yoga go hand-in-hand with many of those of physiotherapy. “Yoga is a fantastic practice, it has so many benefits for the body as well as the mind,” he says. Andy strongly believes in addressing the psychological aspects of physical health. “An injury will never come from one stand-alone cause,” Andy says. “Everything is connected, and sometimes you will benefit from addressing more than one aspect at a time. Especially when an injury causes lifestyle changes, there may be 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.” Away from work you could find Andy running around the Byron coastline or hinterland, surfing his way along the bay or practicing yoga at his favourite local studio. 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

Graduating from his studies as an Osteopath from Southern Cross University with a five-year double degree, has provided Mark with extensive training and knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and biomechanics. Taking a particular interest in clinical diagnosis to find the underlying issues of discomfort and injuries has given Mark the foresight of the mechanism of injuries sustained to the muscular skeletal system and knowledge to provide appropriate treatment and management of these injuries. ​ ​Mark enjoys treating a variety of patients with both sporting and general health issues and is passionate about the results that osteopathy achieves. When Mark is not working he enjoys spending time with his family and working outdoors on his property.

Carly joins our First Light Healthcare team with her expertise in Physiotherapy and Sport & Exercise Science background. Since graduating from Macquarie University with a Doctor of Physiotherapy Carly has worked within major hospital & leading sporting physiotherapy clinics in Sydney; before returning back home to the Northern Rivers. While working as musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, Carly begun expanding her knowledge within pelvic health. Carly now focuses on Women’s and Men’s health while continuing to have a holistic treatment approach. Carly focuses on manual therapy, evidence based exercises and education to assist her patient recover for sporting/working related injuries, pelvic pain, incontinence, pre and post-natal injuries, pelvic organ prolapse and postnatal return to sport/exercise safely.

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.

Gabi is dedicated to improving your health and wellbeing so that you can enjoy life to the fullest. She achieves this through holistic, expert nutrition consultations that address the fundamental building blocks of wellbeing – nourishing food, mind, and body.

Gabi can assist with a broad range of conditions:

- Women's hormonal conditions (PCOS, Endometriosis, Adenomyosis) - Diabetes (Types 1, 2, and Gestational) - Obesity and weight loss - Iron deficiency and other nutrient deficiencies (B12, zinc etc.) - IBS and IBD (e.g. Chron’s, Diverticulitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Chronic constipation or diarrhoea) - Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease - Bacteria and parasite infections - Newly diagnosed Coeliac, lactose intolerance, and other food allergies and intolerances - Mental illness (depression, anxiety, bipolar affective disorder) - Malnutrition and sarcopenia - Hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, and heart disease - Gout

Bachelor of Nursing  Graduate Diploma in Emergency Nursing Professional Certificate in Allergy Nursing  Coral Williamson has been with the medical practice since 2006, supporting the practitioners and our allied health team. Coral has extensive experience in all facets of nursing and attends to every patient with her caring and easy-going manner with kindness and respect.  

After qualifying as a nurse in 2002 from Leeds University, Helen began her nursing career at Leeds General Infirmary in England caring for acutely ill patients. Following this, in 2007, Helen worked in Emergency Nursing. A keen traveler, Helen made the decision to move to Australia in 2009. Shortly after arriving in Australia, Helen began working in the Emergency Department of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. There, she became a senior nurse and spent the majority of her time in the resuscitation room as well as in paediatric care and the intensive care unit.

After three years at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Helen moved into community nursing, caring for elderly patients. As part of this role, she assisted elderly patients with their rehabilitation programs after being discharged from hospital.

In 2013, Helen relocated to Byron Bay to settle down with her family, and became a practice nurse.

Helen enjoys building relationships with patients and providing personalised ongoing care for clients with chronic conditions. Helen strives to treat her patients as she would like to be treated, with kindness and respect. When she’s not working, Helen enjoys spending time with her family, swims at the beach or going to the movies.

Tracey has been working as a registered nurse since 1995.

Her ability to relate to people on all levels and provide a high level of care and confidentiality, and her cheerful and friendly disposition, make her an invaluable member of the First Light Healthcare team.

Before joining our practice, Tracey worked at the Grant Street Clinic in Ballina, where she assisted with immunisations and vaccinations, health checks, wound care, technical health care such as ECGs, skin excisions and emergency care when necessary.

She has also worked at Ballina District Hospital, including in post-surgical care of urology patients and in palliative care, and at Crowley Retirement Village.

Between 1995 and 2002, Tracey used her experience as a registered nurse in hospital settings in Queensland, including for the Royal Brisbane Hospital Eye Clinic and the ear, nose and throat clinic; and at the Royal Women’s Hospital, in gynaecology and oncology care and on surgical wards.

She has a Bachelor of Nursing from Southern Cross University and has recently completed training in Covid-19 immunisation.

Tracey has two teenage children and lives with her family in the Ballina area.  

Matt is a credentialed mental health nurse, undertaking his original qualification in the UK.

He has extensive experience in a variety of areas in the mental health field, from Psychiatric Intensive Care, to inpatient Drug and Alcohol withdrawal and stabilisation, to community-based treatment services in both government and non-government sectors.

Matt has practiced in clinical leadership and management positions for a number of years and has post graduate qualifications and experience in non-medical prescribing, psychopharmacology and medication management, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and ITEP, amongst others.

Matt is passionate about the provision of inclusive and Trauma Informed Services for individuals, positive risk assessment, and suicide prevention. His specialist interest treatment groups have always been people struggling with borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, and addictions. He is a proud advocate for DBT and stabilisation-based therapies to help people experience a better present, and future.

When he’s not working, Matt can be found surfing one of the longboard point breaks and spending time with his beautiful family.

​Phil graduated from Sydney University in 1990, completed his Master of Sports Physiotherapy in 1998. He then taught in the same program as a lecturer and clinical supervisor until 2007. Phil also held the position of Assistant Professor (clinical faculty) at Bond University for 10 years where he helped establish Australia's first Doctor of Physiotherapy program. He has also collaborated on research projects with Melbourne, Griffith and Cornell Universities. This affiliation with universities means he continues to work with and learn from experts in a variety of fields including: physiotherapy, neuroscience, biomedical engineering and biomechanics. Phil has worked with several high profile sports organisations including Gold Coast Titans, Australian Disabled Skiing, Red Bull International, US Skiing and Snowboarding and Surfing Australia. This involvement with professional athletes enabled him to engage with top sports and orthopaedic specialists. Consequently, he has a great understanding of sports technique and what it takes to perform at top level. In 2018 Phil began travelling to Nepal with Ausnep. This is a charitable organisation that provides health care services to the people of Nepal and education to Nepalese Healthcare providers. Along with Nepalese physiotherapists, Phil has developed a model for delivering physiotherapy services to remote communities in the Himalayas. Other highlights include presenting at Nepal's Tribhuvan teaching hospital conference on pain and mentoring some of Nepal's best Sports Physios which gave him the opportunity to work with athletes from several of Nepal's national teams. Phil is passionate about providing a service to improve health outcomes through evidence based physiotherapy and has serviced the general Northern Rivers community for over 27 years.

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.

             

Melissa emigrated from the San Francisco Bay Area to Byron Bay in 2002. She became interested in pursuing a career in science after undertaking bird surveys for the US Geological Survey in the Baja Peninsula of Mexico. This led her to studying Applied and Environmental Sciences at Southern Cross University and later being appointed Researcher and Laboratory Manager of the stable isotope facility at the Centre for Coastal Biogeochemistry at SCU.

After taking many trips across to Australia from his hometown Nelson, in New Zealand, Fox finally made the permanent move here in 2021. Fox completed his Bachelor of Science in Finance at the University of Buffalo 2017 were he had the opportunity to study in American on a soccer scholarship, both in Buffalo, New York, Norfolk and Virgina. He has played soccer all over the United States during his time abroad, meeting lots of amazing people. When he's not working, Fox enjoys outdoor activities, playing soccer, learning to surf, camping, hiking and training for an upcoming Iron Man. Fox hopes that through his role at First Light Healthcare, our patients and clinical team will have a greater insight into our local healthcare landscape and future of the industry.

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 a local Medical Centre before joining First Light Healthcare.

Not surprisingly, Stephanie values organisation, one of the reasons she continues to excel in her current role.

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.

Born in the United Kingdom, Sarah has worked in London, Auckland, Sydney and, now in her new hometown of Byron Bay.

A problem-solver, who is prepared to roll up her sleeves and get the work done, her experience is diverse. Sarah originally pursued a career as a mortgage broker and was responsible for team fiscal management including annual sales targets and profitability measures.

Moving to New Zealand in 2002, then to Sydney, Australia, in 2006, for a change of lifestyle, she continued her work in financial services before accepting an exciting role as assistant to the national coach of Rhythmic Gymnastics Australia.

In this position, Sarah not only oversaw day-to-day operations but helped support the team with national and Olympic presentations.

Since 2010, her work experience has focussed on the health and wellness industry.

After moving to Byron Bay in 2016, Sarah took a role as a personal carer in Home Care Services, building on an early career experience as an auxiliary nurse caring for the elderly.

At First Light Healthcare, Sarah continues to enjoy helping people, including those who need assistance in navigating the healthcare system.

While juggling work and being a mother to three children, she also swims, runs, sings and does yoga.

As a busy mother of three children , twins and a toddler, Tynelle has plenty of experience juggling a busy schedule.

That’s an advantage at First Light Healthcare where her exceptional organisational skills come into play whilst delivering friendly and informative patient care.

Tynelle has worked with a diverse range of people, through her background as a medical receptionist as well as her managerial role working underground at Mount Isa, for a mining company.

When she’s not at work, Tynelle likes to find time to stay fit by chasing after her beautiful children.

Magdalena brings her warm and friendly approach to our administration team at First Light Healthcare Byron Bay.

She prides herself on treating all patients with kindness, happy to assist with any enquiry.

Magdalena is heavily involved in our community running the local soccer club while also coaching and playing in the women’s team.

She also enjoys her volunteering work and when she’s not working at First Light Healthcare, this busy mother, also assists the community through her mental health and sobriety coach work.

Janelle is a kind and caring member of our Ballina Administrative Team. Personable and professional, Janelle has worked as a medical receptionist for several years, having also worked across a range of different industries including fashion and hairdressing, which took her overseas to Los Angeles and Japan. Born and raised in the Northern Rivers, Janelle enjoys working closely with her local community. After spending 12 years living across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Janelle finally decided to make the move back to the Northern Rivers to bring up her children. When she isn’t working, Janelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, going on nature walks and volunteering in the local agricultural shows and dance eisteddfods.

With 5 years’ experience in a medical reception role, Jess makes the perfect addition to our First Light Healthcare administration team.

Jess’s excellent and friendly customer service skills reflect her previous roles including jobs in retail and hospitality. She spent 5 years working between Thredbo Ski Resort and Niseko Base Snowsports, where she worked as a guest service lead hand and online customer service. She has also completed a Cert III and IV in business administration as well as attaining her mental health first aid certificate.

Jess prides herself on taking time to get to know our Ballina patients, making them feel welcome and comfortable.

When she’s not working, Jess enjoys spending quality time with her young family, her beautiful 2-year-old and catching up with friends.

Tracey brings her wealth of knowledge and superior customer service skills to our First Light Healthcare administrative team. Tracey has over 20 years’ experience in medical reception and secretary roles in the local area, including an on-call locum work.

Tracey has attained her certificates in CPR, Triage, Medical Terminology and Health Administration. She enjoys liaising, helping, and caring for the wonderful Ballina patients.

When she’s not working, Tracey enjoys being outdoors, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, fishing, and farming in Fiji.