• Danielle Edwards - Principal Physiotherapist - BSc(PT)Hons

    Danielle is a senior physiotherapist in pelvic health, which encompasses bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction, along with pregnancy related dysfunction and pelvic pain. 

    75% of Danielle’s case load comprises complex conditions such as obstructed defecation or fecal incontinence, urge urinary incontinence, pudendal neuralgia and dyspareunia. Danielle trains a team of pelvic health physio’s providing rehabilitation for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, including the use of vaginal support pessaries.  

    Danielle is an active public speaker, teaching evidence based practice and clinical pearls to community groups, medical training groups and integration committees.

    The other 25% of Danielle’s case load is spent assisting her very loyal musculoskeletal patients, for instance with headaches and spinal pain.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    Bladder, bowel and sexual health  -  Chronic complex pelvic pain  -  Abdominal pain  -  Prolapse including pessaries  -  Postpartum dysfunction including separation (diastasis) and back pain or returning to sports

  • Ginny Erichsen - Senior Physiotherapist - BSc(PT)Hons

    Ginny is a senior physiotherapist in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. She has been a clinician for 24 years and in that time has had varied experience in both University teaching hospitals and private practice in England and Australia.

    Ginny developed an interest in the assessment and treatment of shoulders whilst working alongside Orthopaedic Shoulder Surgeons in England. Here she had the opportunity to watch them operate, sit in on out-patient clinics and conduct some research.

    Throughout the last 15 years she has continued her professional development by attending post graduate education to keep up to date with the latest evidence based practice in Physiotherapy.

    The majority of Ginny’s case load now comprises of complex shoulder conditions referred from local and Brisbane based surgeons, local GP’s and allied health professionals.

    Ginny also leads the post graduate training program at Active Physiotherapy and speaks at local events.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    Pre and post op Shoulder conditions  -  Shoulder pain / injuries  -  Neck related conditions  -  Whiplash  -  Chronic Pain  -  Western Acupuncture

  • Suzanne Ketsimur - Senior Physiotherapist - BAppSc (PT) Hons

    Suzanne graduated from the University of South Australia in 1998 with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physiotherapy with Honours.

    She then worked in Griffith, NSW, for the following 3 years. During that time, she worked with a number of local Rugby League clubs as well as local Rugby Union, Soccer and AFL teams, gaining valuable experience in the assessment, management and rehabilitation of various sporting injuries. Suzanne has enjoyed participating in many different sports throughout her life, playing hockey for many years, and competing in Outrigging at a National and International level.

    Since moving to Mackay in 2003, Suzanne has developed an interest in BPPV and Vestibular Rehabilitation. Dizziness and loss of balance can not only be a debilitating problem on its own, but increases the risk of falls, which can cause serious injuries in some cases. She finds it very rewarding to see people regain their mobility, independence and confidence through Physiotherapy. Suzanne enjoys expanding her knowledge through regular courses and in recent years has attended various workshops and conferences around the country. One particular course she enjoyed involved identifying "weak links" in patients, which is not only useful in treating chronic or recurrent problems, but also in injury prevention and even improving sporting performance.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    Hip problems including Gluteal Tendinopathy  -  Running related injuries  -  BPPV/Vertigo  -  Vestibular Rehabilitation

  • Dale Jones - Senior Physiotherapist - BPhty, GCertPF, GDipCouns&Psych, GDipDiv

    Dale moved to the warm climate of Mackay in 2017 after spending the previous eight years in Tasmania. Her main area of interest is in pelvic floor dysfunction which usually involves very intimate areas of people's lives that can be embarrassing to discuss – urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse. She really enjoys being able to support people and help remove barriers to being able to fully enjoy their lives. Dale has completed a Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy and uses this within physiotherapy practice to support psychological impacts of health dysfunctions and is now completing her Masters of Counselling.  

    Dale has worked in a wide variety of physiotherapy positions: hospital, private practice, Education Queensland, Aged and Disability Services.  While living in the Northern Territory Dale was awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 2006 to study the Indigenous application of the Ponseti method of managing club foot which was a very rewarding experience travelling to both Iowa and Uganda.  In her own time she loves to read, go camping, play the piano and flute, walk, and discovering about people's life journeys.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    -Pelvic floor dysfunction

    -Children

    -Complex presentations

    -Neurological rehabilitation

  • Claire Stevenson – Senior Physiotherapist - BESS, MPhtySt

    Claire graduated with a Master of Physiotherapy Studies from the University of Queensland after also completing a Bachelor of Exercise & Sports Science.

    Claire is currently studying a Master of Clinical Rehabilitation in Neurological Physiotherapy to specialize in neurological rehabilitation.

    Claire works with NDIS participants and people with neurological conditions such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Spinal Cord Injury, Acquired Brain Injury, Functional Neurological Disorder and many others.

    With her background in exercise science and neurological rehabilitation, Claire prescribes targeted exercise programs and strategies for patients to improve their function, quality of life, and independence. Claire sees patients in the clinic but also visits homes, gyms, pools and the community to work on specific activities relevant to patients goals.

    Claire has additional training in Pilates and Hydrotherapy and often uses these exercises for neurological rehabilitation.

  • Chris Elphinstone - Senior Physiotherapist

    Chris is a North Queensland local who has been practicing physiotherapy in the Mackay region since graduating from James Cook University in 2010.

    In this time he has gained vast experience in Musculoskeletal, Occupational and Orthopaedic physiotherapy. He has remained committed to his ongoing professional development, having completed countless courses in the musculoskeletal physiotherapy field through the years he has practiced. He is excited to be brought into the active physiotherapy team as a senior physiotherapist. 

    His interests range from sporting injuries to work injuries, and he has a keen interest in post-operative recovery.

    Chris is a former member of the Australian swimming team and while his years of competitive sport are behind him, he still enjoys an active lifestyle. In his spare time he would often be seen attending his gym, hiking, camping or free-driving.

  • Eamon Kelly - Senior Physiotherapist

    Eamon is excited to have returned to his hometown of Mackay after working in Brisbane for the last 6 years. During this time, Eamon has consolidated and built on his physiotherapy skills and knowledge and has developed a particular passion for supporting men undergoing or recovering from prostate cancer treatment and surgery. After gaining significant experience in this area, Eamon compliments Active Physiotherapy Mackay’s Men’s Health team in delivering the best possible evidence-based care to his patients. With prior experience working in both hospital and outpatient settings, Eamon is able to share his knowledge and advice to his patients in many areas of their recovery including continence, sexual function recovery, and exercise.

  • Isaac Fitzsimon - Physiotherapist

    Isaac graduated from James Cook University in 2018. Having grown up in Mackay he is proud to return to the region and join the Active Physiotherapy team. In his spare time Isaac can be found exploring the Mackay/Sarina region, camping and playing local hockey and volleyball. Prior to becoming a physio, Isaac worked in aged care and has also worked with the NRL and Women’s Big Bash League as a massage therapist.

    Currently, Isaac works with the Mackay Meteors as the lead physio and is a member of the APA Musculoskeletal and Sports + Exercise national groups. He is also the team leader of our Sarina clinic.

    Isaac prides himself on having a very personable approach to all his patients taking the time to understand both the condition and the person in front of him. He has undergone a number of post graduate courses to expand his knowledge and assist in enhancing patient outcomes.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    • Spinal pain – neck and lower back (APA Spinal A – Lumbar and Cervical)
    • Dry needling/Western Acupuncture
    • Osteoarthritis Management
    • Falls prevention
    • Sporting Injuries (APA Sports Physiotherapy Level 1)
    • Strength and conditioning (ASCA Lv 1 Strength and Conditioning Coach)
    • Occupational Health (JobFit Systems Accredited)
    • Orthopedics/post-operative management
    • Upper and lower limb musculoskeletal
  • Jemma Carter - Physiotherapist

    Jemma graduated from James Cook University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. Having moved to Mackay once completing her study, Jemma enjoys getting away in her spare time camping, surfing and spending time at the beach. Jemma also loves playing sport, including AFL and beach volleyball.

    Currently, Jemma works in both our Mackay and Sarina clinics, enjoying helping both communities to achieve their best health outcomes. Her approach to treatment is very individualised and focuses on understanding clients goals to create personalised treatments.

    Jemma enjoys treating a mixed caseload of general musculoskeletal and orthopedic conditions. She also has a special interest in Neurological physiotherapy and rehabilitation, working with many clients on NDIS.

    The rest of Jemma’s caseload consists of women’s health physiotherapy. This includes pregnancy related conditions, post natal recovery such as abdominal separation and return to sport, bladder and bowel disorders, and prolapse (including pessaries).

    She has completed a number of post graduate courses to expand her knowledge and assist in enhancing patient outcomes.

    SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    • Dry Needling / Western Acupuncture
    • General musculoskeletal physiotherapy
    • Bladder, bowel and sexual health
    • Pre and post-natal physiotherapy including abdominal separation and return to sport
    • Neurological Physiotherapy and NDIS (APA Level 1 Neurological Physiotherapy)
  • Brayden Gaviglio - Senior Physiotherapist - BPhty

    Brayden graduated from James Cook University in 2018. Having grown up in the Mackay community Brayden was excited to return home and join the Active team.

    In his spare time Brayden can be found exploring the Mackay/Walkerston region, camping and playing/ providing physio to Brother’s senior rugby league club. Brayden also has experience in state and national rugby league as both a player and sports trainer. Prior to becoming a physio, Brayden gained experience as a physio assistant for the Confraternity Shield carnival in 2018. Currently, Brayden works with the Brothers rugby as the lead physio and is looking to build ongoing relationships with both grass roots and elite rugby league pathways in the Mackay community.  

    Brayden believes in providing a thorough approach to rehabilitation, and likes to ensure his patients are involved in setting their own specific goals and working as a team to provide the best possible outcomes. He has undergone a number of post graduate courses to expand his knowledge and assist in enhancing patient outcomes.

     SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

    • Spinal pain – neck and lower back (APA Spinal A – Lumbar and Cervical)
    • Dry needling/Western Acupuncture
    • Sporting Injuries (APA Sports Physiotherapy Level 1)
    • Dizziness/ vertigo
    • Occupational Health (JobFit Systems Accredited)
    • Orthopedics/post-operative management
    • Upper and lower limb musculoskeletal (Upper Limb Excellence Clinical course)
  • Steve Gabriel - Senior Physiotherapist - BAppSc MPhysioPrac

    Steve moved to Mackay with his wife and daughter in 2020. Since arriving in sunny Queensland both he and his wife have welcomed another two beautiful children into their family.

    Steve loves helping people and is passionate about all things health and physiotherapy and he loves to learn. After starting at Active Physio in 2020 he hit the ground running completing a Bachelor of Social Sciences with a major in Behavioural Studies (2020-2022). 

    He has completed extensive professional development to advance his clinical skills in the management of spinal conditions, acute sporting injuries and rehabilitation and has completed courses specifically aimed at assessing and treating persistent pain, headaches, conditions of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, foot/ankle and temporomandibular joint (jaw). He has also completed additional training in clinical Pilates.

    Steve understands that there is a person attached to the painful shoulder, knee or hip. He understands that everybody’s pain and rehabilitation journey is unique and should be tailored in such a fashion.

    Steve enjoys treating all types of conditions and has a particular interest treating shoulders, headaches, jaw pain, knees and conditions of the spine (neck and back pain). He is specifically interested in how mechanics of the spine can contribute to and influence other areas of the body.

    Steve is currently studying his Masters in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy through La Trobe University.

    When he’s not studying or attending courses Steve enjoys spending time with his family, spending time outdoors, going to the gym, drinking coffee and watching NBA and AFL. Two of his greatest achievements include trekking to Mt Everest Base Camp and completing the Melbourne half marathon.

  • Demelum Uche-Okoye - Senior Physiotherapist

    Demelum is originally from Nigeria where she completed her undergraduate studies. She worked in both the public and private sectors before moving to the UK to commence her master's degree in physiotherapy. She worked for the National Health Service (NHS) as a senior physiotherapist for almost 3 years before deciding to move to Mackay.

    Amongst other musculoskeletal disorders, Demelum has a special interest in spinal- related conditions and chronic pain management. She will be commencing the journey to being an APA titled pain specialist when she starts her Masters of Science in Pain Management at University of Sydney in July.

  • Johnny Mulherin - Physiotherapist

    Johnny has returned to the team here at Active Physiotherapy Mackay after working in the Solomon Islands for the past 18 months. Whilst there Johnny contributed his expertise through running educational programs, mentoring local physiotherapists and performance staff as well as working with over 22 different sports competing in the 2023 Pacific Games.

    With a special in sports injuries, neurological rehabilitation, and strength and conditioning, Johnny provides personalized and comprehensive care tailored to the specific needs of each individual. Johnny also has experience in managing recovery from orthopedic surgery, vertigo/balance difficulties and is trained in Western Acupuncture/Dry Needling.

    Having honed his skills in a variety of settings, Johnny integrates hands-on techniques, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of the human body to guide clients on their journey to recovery. Whether you're an athlete aspiring for peak performance, recovering from an injury, or seeking neurological rehabilitation, Johnny Mulherin is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

  • Courtney Townsend - Physiotherapist

    Courtney made the move from Brisbane this year to join the team at Active Physiotherapy after completing a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Queensland.

    Courtney is interested in musculoskeletal conditions including knee and ankle injuries and their return to sport. She is very excited to have the opportunity to work closely with the Gold Coast Suns Academy this year. Courtney also has keen interests in long-term and progressive diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Spinal Cord Injury and Motor Neuron Disease.

    Courtney appreciates that each person is unique and requires individualized treatment. She takes the time to understand individual goals and needs and will help you work towards achieving these. 

    Since moving to North Queensland, Courtney enjoys exploring the surrounding beaches and waterholes, as well as playing AFL and netball. Her biggest passions in life are her dogs and travelling the world. So far she has visited 47 countries and well over 100 cities.  One day, she hopes to be able to volunteer or work as a physiotherapist in a developing country and contribute to bettering their overall healthcare. She also dreams to work with animals in the future.

  • Erin Kerr - Physiotherapist

    Erin has recently returned to Mackay to be closer to family and friends. Erin graduated in 2020 from Central Queensland University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours). Afterwards, she spent a year working at the Children’s Hospital in Brisbane treating children and infants across a wide scope of practice. Erin enjoys a varied caseload of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. She has a passion for paediatrics (infants, children and adolescents) and Neurological rehabilitation.

    Erin is eager to help her clients achieve their goals and to provide family centred care. Outside of work Erin enjoys netball, squash and spending time with friends. Erin has completed multiple professional development courses in paediatrics and is looking to continue this throughout the future.

    Some common conditions Erin is able to treat:

    • Paediatric sporting or musculoskeletal injuries
    • Pre-screening assessment for young dancers wishing to start pointe
    • Community rehabilitation following surgery
    • Genetic & Syndromal conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.
    • Atypical gait patterns such as knock knees or toe walking
    • Scoliosis and Kyphosis
    • Respiratory Conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis, Bronchiectasis, Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
    • NDIS and Early Childhood clients such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delay, Dwarfism, Down Syndrome, etc.
    • Infants with torticollis and plagiocephaly (head preferences and flat spots)
  • Nick Bonassi - Physiotherapist

    Nick completed his Bachelor of Physiotherapy at James Cook University in 2021. He has recently moved from his hometown of Ingham to pursue a career in musculoskeletal physiotherapy in Mackay and is excited to join the team at Active Physiotherapy.

    Nick enjoys treating a mixed caseload of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly ankles, knees and lower backs. Nick has a keen interest in sports rehabilitation and injury prevention. He is passionate about using his physiotherapy skills to achieve his clients' goals and improve their quality of life. Improving one's health and well-being was the motivating factor behind him becoming a physiotherapist. He understands the importance of furthering his knowledge base and strives to provide the most up-to-date treatment for his patients.

    In his spare time, Nick enjoys being active and has a strong sporting background. He is currently playing soccer and cricket for Magpies Sporting Club and can be found swinging the golf clubs at any possible chance. Other sporting interests include; basketball, tennis and rugby league. He is excited to further his career at Active Physio and to positively impact the health of the Mackay/Sarina communities.

  • Dylan Motteram - Accredited Exercise Physiologist

    Dylan is passionate about using exercise to help people improve their general health and wellbeing. Particular areas of interest include working with people who have experienced mental health challenges, neurological disorders and those undergoing cancer treatment. Dylan is completing further education in the exercise oncology field to provide the best care possible for people that are undergoing or are post- cancer treatment.

    From a sporting viewpoint Dylan is an experienced long distance runner, having completed multiple marathons, half-marathons and is looking forward to competing in his first Ultra-Marathon later this year. Additionally, Dylan is experienced in working with Strength and Conditioning athletes, Powerlifting, and sports specific training. 

  • Alexandria Harris - Therapy Assistant

    Alex started with Active Physiotherapy in 2022 in the role of Therapy Assistant. Since starting she has been assisting the physiotherapists with their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) patients, helping them improve through exercise and hydrotherapy programs.

    This has brought up a passion for helping people improve their strength, mobility and reaching their goals. Alex is currently studying Sport and Exercise Science.

    Outside of work Alex enjoys playing rugby league, spending time outside exploring or hanging out with her dogs and family. Alex looks forward to meeting all kinds of people, expanding her knowledge and helping as many people as she can.