In 1982 the Falklands war erupted, Michael Jackson released the classic album Thriller, the first CD player hit the market and ET the movie hit the cinema… and I graduated from physiotherapy at the Western Australian Institute of technology, now known as Curtin University.
It was a big year for me, as soon after I began my career at Royal Perth Hospital where I remained for five years. That period was only interrupted by a year of full-time study as I picked up my postgraduate qualifications in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. I loved my time at Royal Perth Hospital and was exposed to all the classic ares of physio. I spent time in orthopaedics, general medical and surgical, neurology, burns & plastics, ICU, cardio-thoracics, outpatients and finished my time there in charge of the outpatient department for two years.
Then began the great adventure of Private practice, joining my father in his solo practice in Cottesloe . This was an interesting experience. Working with your parent has its challenges but that time was short lived as within the year he was diagnosed with liver cancer. He passed away 15 months later leaving me to keep the ship afloat… and we did , building a successful seven figure 19 staff practice that worked from a philosophy of compassion, care and professionalism.
After 27 years running my own practice the corporates made me an offer I couldn't refuse. I sold the practice and continued to work for them for a number of years until my desire for change and new adventure overtook me. It was then that I came across the exciting and progressive Biio group.
While I think I can offer experience, wisdom and insight, this organisation offers me new ways of thinking, new ideas, new challenges and a refreshing mindset in operating a Health business.
Throughout my career, my most significant professional influencers have been the 'M5' - Geoff Maitland, Robyn McKenzie, Brian Mulligan, Jenny McConnell, and Michael Ridgway. Each of these groundbreaking individuals has profoundly shaped modern musculoskeletal physiotherapy.
In particular, Michael Ridgway's 'out of the box' thinking and holistic approach resonated deeply with my developing philosophy.
Adopting the Ridgeway Method as my fundamental examination and treatment approach has been a game-changer, allowing me to become a better therapist and providing my patients with the most effective and holistic care possible.