Our Team
Physiotherapist & Director
Gareth Bell
Gareth is a Director of Physiotas and joined the team in 2013. He graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) from the University of Nottingham (UK) in 1997. After spending almost a year backpacking around Australia he and his wife Jo emigrated to Tasmania in 2002. Gareth holds a Graduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from La Trobe University in Melbourne. In 2019 he completed a Clinical Competency Certificate in the assessment and treatment of Vestibular and Balance Disorders. His professional interests include; the treatment of vertigo, dizziness and vestibular rehabilitation, neck pain and headache assessment and treatment, spinal pain, knee rehabilitation and dry needling. Outside of work, Gareth's interests revolve around family life in one of the most wonderful places in the world – North West Tasmania. His hobby is practising, reading about and performing magic.
Physiotherapist & Director
Geoff Haberle
Geoff is a Director at Physiotas, where he has been working as one of the Principal Physiotherapists for over 15 years. He graduated from La Trobe University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. During his tenure at Physiotas, Geoff has played a vital role in the development and growth of the practice, which is now the leading physiotherapy facility in Tasmania. Geoff has a particular interest in treating neck pain, headaches, and lower back issues. He also enjoys mentoring and teaching the younger staff members at Physiotas. In his free time, Geoff enjoys spending time with his family, which includes his wife and four boys. He keeps himself active by mountain biking and occasionally going on fishing trips. He has also developed an interest in soccer and often goes to watch his boys play for the Devonport Strikers.
Specialist Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist & Director
Lia Giovanovits
Lia is the Director of Physiotas and a highly qualified Specialist Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist, having been awarded this title by the Australian College of Physiotherapists in 2018. She is also a titled APA Sports Physiotherapist. Lia holds a Masters in both Sports and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from the University of Queensland, as well as an Honours degree in Physiotherapy from the University of London. In addition, she is a Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists and a Consultant Physiotherapist for the Tasmanian Institute of Sport. As the clinical leader of our Launceston clinic, Lia brings a wealth of experience, having worked under leading UK Sports and Orthopaedic physiotherapists in Oxford and Nottingham. She has also provided support to elite athletes across various sports, including the Australian Rowing Team (2009–2013, 2021–2024), the Canadian Women’s Rowing Team (2013–2014), and the Australian Para-Cycling Team (2016, 2025). Lia's expertise has also extended internationally, working as a physiotherapist at World Championship and World Cup events, with the Australian Paralympic Team at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and the 2012 London Olympics in the Rowing and Kayaking venue. Lia is an experienced speaker, having presented at numerous physiotherapy courses and General Practitioner education days. Her clinical focus is on hip, ankle, and knee injuries—particularly patellofemoral and ligament injuries—as well as the management of injuries in cyclists, runners, and rowers. In addition to her professional work, Lia also likes to stay active, having competed in sports such as swimming, rowing, cycling, triathlon, and hockey.
Physiotherapist
Abbey Padman
Abbey completed her Bachelor of Health Science at UTAS in 2018 and then completed her Bachelor in Physiotherapy at CSU in Albury in 2021. She joined the Physiotas team in 2023 and works out of our North West clinics. Abbey’s clinical interests include women’s health, neck pain & headaches as well as post-op rehab. She is dedicated to helping her patients recover and achieve their goals. When Abbey isn’t at work, you will find her exploring by car, bike or on foot, most likely enjoying a coffee or a wine or two.
Physiotherapist
Adam Jago
Adam started at Physiotas in 2022 after completing his Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Physiotherapy Practice at La Trobe University in 2021. Cinically, Adam's areas of interest include adult and adolescent sporting injuries, knees, ankles/achilles and shoulders however he enjoys working with all members of the community. Adam considers himself a lifelong learner and thoroughly enjoys learning from his Physiotas colleagues and via professional development. Outside of Physiotas, Adam is an active member of the local community and you can often find him at local sporting events (especially with the Devonport Strikers), spending time with family or camping with friends.
Physiotherapist
Amy Hilder
Amy obtained a Bachelor of Health Science from the University of Tasmania and pursued a Masters of Physiotherapy in South Australia, which she completed in 2018. Her professional journey began in February 2019 with Physiotas, where she is currently based in Launceston. Additionally, she serves as a physiotherapist in our outreach clinic located in Scottsdale. Amy enjoys treating sports injuries, particularly within the lower limb. She also enjoys working with paediatric patients and neurological conditions across the lifespan. Amy is a GLA:D Registered Physiotherapist. GLA:D (Good Life with Arthritis: Denmark), is an education and exercise program developed by researchers in Denmark for people with hip or knee osteoarthritis symptoms. Amy is an Accredited Lymphoedema Therapist, training with MQ Health’s ALERT program. Outside of work, Amy owns a hobby farm with her husband, son and dog, Rosie. Amy also enjoys getting outdoors and spending time with her family on the weekends.
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Receptionist
Ann Penhallow
Coming Soon ...
Exercise Physiologist
Ben Brockman
Ben completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science from the University of Tasmania in 2011 and has been working with Physiotas ever since. He is extremely passionate about promoting exercise and reducing physical inactivity to improve the health of individuals and the community as a whole. Ben's clinical interests include managing chronic health conditions through exercise, especially Diabetes and Osteoporosis. Running is another area of clinical expertise for him. Ben is an Athletics Australia Level 2 Accredited Running Coach, providing running coaching services and running-focused strength and conditioning training, running injury management, and running gait assessment. Apart from work, Ben is mostly occupied with running and competing in marathons and ultra-distance events. He has been the Event Director for Devonport parkrun for the past 8 years and is also a board member of the UTAS Athletics Club. When not running, Ben can often be found out walking his dog, Bee, usually headed to the nearest cafe.
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Physiotherapist
Bianca White
Bianca earned her Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Physiotherapy degrees in 2023 from Flinders University in South Australia. In 2024, she returned to Launceston to join the Physiotas team. She has a keen interest in sports injuries, back pain, falls prevention, and general strength and conditioning. Bianca is committed to providing holistic care to her patients and hopes to focus on pediatrics and women's health in her professional journey. Outside of her work, Bianca participates in activities such as orienteering, AFL, and basketball, reflecting her dedication to an active lifestyle. She also enjoys cooking and going on adventurous weekend trips with family and friends, as well as pursuing unique hobbies like gold prospecting and coin collecting. In both her professional and personal pursuits, Bianca is driven by a genuine desire to positively impact the lives of others, combining her expertise with a caring and compassionate approach.
Physiotherapist
Brad Tolson
Brad completed his Masters of Physiotherapy at LaTrobe University in Bendigo before returning to the Northwest Coast in 2022, where he started working at Physiotas. He is particularly interested in lower limb musculoskeletal conditions, running injuries, and Men's health, including pre and post-prostatectomy care and those undergoing active surveillance. However, he enjoys treating all musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Brad has extensive experience working with local sporting teams, including Penguin Football Club, NW Thunder basketball, and the NWFL representative football team. Apart from his work, Brad enjoys bushwalking, running with his dogs Zoe and Bonny, renovating his home, and cooking with his wife.
Finance & HR Manager
Carol Doonan
Carol is the Finance and HR Manager at Physiotas and a Member and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants. She has been with Physiotas since 2015 and has over 35 years of experience in accounting, taxation, audit and management, having worked both in public accounting practice and management accounting roles. Carol is committed to providing high-quality, timely, and professional support to the Directors and the rest of the Physiotas team. What she enjoys most is working as a team and contributing to the success of the business. When she's not working, Carol is a busy mother of two. She loves spending time with her family and engaging in various physical activities such as running, yoga, rowing, bushwalking, and exercise sessions at Physiotas.
Physiotherpist
Dan Yeo
Dan has been working at Physiotas since graduating from Monash University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy with Honours in 2011. He has completed additional professional development in the management and rehabilitation of spinal and sporting injuries, shoulder rehabilitation, Clinical Pilates, and dry needling. Dan's professional interests include sports injuries, shoulder and spinal injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, Clinical Pilates, and dry needling. He has a particular interest in ACL management, having undergone his own ACL reconstruction and subsequent rehabilitation. Dan is actively involved in Physiotas' Clinical Pilates/Reform and Workplace Health programs. He has worked with a range of local and interstate sporting clubs, including Devonport Football Club, Tassie Mariners, UTAS Lions, and Soccer TAS. In his free time, Dan enjoys running, hiking, and everything related to coffee.
Physiotherapist
Dinah Spratt
Dinah is a highly qualified physiotherapist with a GradDipPhys in Physiotherapy, MScMed(pn Mgt), and she is also an APA tilted Pain Physiotherapist and an ACP Pain Registrar. She has been part of the Physiotas team for over 10 years and her clinical interests are Chronic pain, spinal conditions, cervicogenic headaches, and dizziness. What she loves most about her workplace is the friendly and supportive work environment. She appreciates that staff members mentor each other, catch up with discussion groups, and hang out together socially, even though she hasn't been able to attend any events yet. She also loves the team's positive attitude, which has a positive impact on the patients. Outside of work, Dinah loves to kayak.
Physiotherapist
Ebony Roberts
Ebony completed her Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Physiotherapy Practice at La Trobe University in Melbourne. After graduation, she worked in rehabilitation hospitals and private practices in Melbourne before returning to Tasmania and joining Physiotas in 2022. Ebony enjoys treating musculoskeletal injuries of all kinds, but she has a particular interest in paediatric and child physiotherapy, including newborns to teenagers. She regularly treats children with developmental delays, hip or foot conditions, and head or neck concerns. Ebony also has experience treating children under the NDIS with specific diagnoses. As a GLA:D Registered Physiotherapist, she has additional training in dry needling and Clinical Pilates. Apart from work, Ebony likes to bake, snowboard, and relax on the beach.
Practice Manager - Launceston
Edwina Mullenger
Edwina has been working as a receptionist at Physiotas since 2017. Prior to that, she worked at Active Physiotherapy Launceston. Currently, she serves as the Practice Manager of our Launceston clinic. Edwina finds tremendous joy in working with her colleagues and witnessing the progress that patients make during their time with us. During her free time, Edwina likes to read, walk, ride a bike, garden, travel (whenever possible), and spend quality time with her family.
Physiotherapist
Emily Hudson
Emily became a member of the Physiotas team in 2022, working as an Exercise Physiologist. She graduated from the University of Tasmania in 2018 with a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology (Professional Honours). Prior to that, she completed an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science. Currently, Emily is pursuing her Masters of Physiotherapy at the University of Tasmania. Her clinical interests involve weight management, falls management, and rehabilitation for lumbar spine injuries. During her leisure time, she enjoys going to the gym to do CrossFit and Olympic Weightlifting, or hanging out with her dog, Louie!
Accounts Officer
Emma King
Emma joined our reception team in 2019 and now works as our Accounts Officer. Prior to joining the Physiotas team, Emma worked as an accountant after completing a Bachelor of Business in Accounting. Emma appreciates the friendly and supportive nature of our team at Physiotas and enjoys the fun and vibrant work environment. In her free time, Emma spends time with her husband and three children and indulges in reading and watching trashy TV.
Physiotherapist
George Maguire
After completing his Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree at Charles Sturt University in Port Macquarie, George relocated back to Tasmania. In 2021, he joined the team at Physiotas. George also holds a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science from Deakin University, which helped him develop his skills in exercise prescription. George has an interest in lower body sporting injuries and tendon-related pain. He is passionate about helping all his clients achieve their goals. In his free time, George enjoys playing cricket, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.
Operations Manager
Hannah Proctor
Hannah joined Physiotas in 2009, where she began her career by completing a Certificate II and III in Business, followed by a Diploma. Starting her journey on Reception, she quickly developed a passion for supporting both the team and clients. In 2014, Hannah transitioned into the role of Operations Manager, where she continues to thrive. She is dedicated to helping practitioners and administrative staff achieve the best possible outcomes for both the business and patients. In her free time, Hannah enjoys spending time with her husband, son, family, and friends. She also loves being creative and indulging in activities such as singing, baking, sewing, and various craft projects.
Physiotherapist
Jacob Glover
Jacob has been part of the Physiotas team since 2014. He has a Bachelor of Exercise Science, a Master of Physiotherapy from Griffith University, and a Masters of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy from La Trobe University. He has also undertaken continued professional development in various aspects of physiotherapy and health. Professional development has played an essential role in shaping Jacob's clinical interests, which include hip/groin, shoulder, and lower back pain, particularly in the sporting populations. In recent times, his primary focus has been on cycling-related problems and bike fitting. Jacob thoroughly enjoys being a part of the Physiotas team, relishing the supportive environment and the diverse clinical experiences it offers. Outside of work, he enjoys mountain biking and “Dadding” - sometimes doing both simultaneously. He also engages in various other physical activities to keep himself fit and active.
Receptionist
Jackie Blake
Jackie joined Physiotas in October 2023, bringing with her 18 years of experience in Allied Health administration and customer service. She is dedicated to ensuring that the patients always come first at Physiotas. Jackie is grateful for the warm and supportive environment provided by the rest of the team at Physiotas. It makes her job a pleasure to come to each day. When she's not at work, Jackie spends her time with her husband and keeps in touch with her family and friends. She enjoys pilates, reading, and travelling.
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Receptionist
Jasmine Axman-Friend
Coming Soon ...
Receptionist
Jen Walsh
Jennie has been a part of our reception team at Physiotas since October 2019. She loves coming to work every day because she enjoys her job and gets to work with amazing colleagues who feel like family. Additionally, she gets to meet new people and build relationships with patients who become regular and familiar faces. Outside of work, Jen spends time travelling around Tasmania with her husband Mike in their van, as well as spending quality time with their two beautiful children. She also enjoys bike riding and reading when she gets the time. And of course, Friday nights are reserved for enjoying some bubbles!
Operations Manager
Jessica Batten
Jess has been working as a receptionist at Physiotas since 2019. She completed a Certificate 3 in Business and now serves as the joint Operations Manager and Practice Manager of our North-West clinics. Jess is passionate about her work and loves the strong bonds she has formed with her colleagues at Physiotas. Apart from work, Jess enjoys exercising and spending quality time with her friends.
Physiotherapist
Jessica Holwill
Jess joined Physiotas in 2023, after completing a Doctor of Physiotherapy at the University of Melbourne in 2022 and a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at Deakin University in 2018. With her educational background and long-term employment in clinical exercise science and elite sport, Jess possesses a great understanding of managing acute and chronic health conditions, with a significant focus on exercise rehabilitation. Apart from her work at Physiotas, Jess enjoys powerlifting, kayaking, running, collecting indoor houseplants, and spending time with her rescue greyhound.
Reception
Jordan Devine
Coming Soon ...
Physiotherapist
Kasey Kent
COMING SOON ...
Receptionist
Katie Cooke
COMING SOON ...
Exercise Scientist
Lauren Broos
Lauren joined the Physiotas team in 2023 as part of the administrative team but has since transitioned to a clinical role as an Exercise Scientist. Currently, Lauren is completing her Master’s in Exercise Physiology at Charles Sturt University, with an expected graduation in early 2025. She has a particular interest in work conditioning programs for workplace injuries, general and sport-related strength and conditioning, women's health, and exercise for the prevention and management of osteoporosis and osteopenia. As she works with more clients, she anticipates that her areas of interest may evolve as she gains a deeper understanding of their needs. She is also keen on the benefits of reformer and clinical Pilates for various chronic conditions. Outside of work, Lauren recently became a strength and conditioning coach, leading group classes at a gym. She has completed her Les Mills Body Pump and reformer Pilates instructor training and plans to add more Les Mills programs and ASCA strength and conditioning qualifications to her credentials. Lauren enjoys staying active in various ways; she was previously a competitive runner but now runs for enjoyment. Additionally, she plays touch football and is a passionate dancer. During university breaks, she loves to explore new mountains and go hiking.
Physiotherapist
Megan Clark
Megan has been working as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist at Physiotas since she completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy with honours in 2005. Her interest in the field of pain management, both acute and chronic, developed during her time working as a physiotherapist in an occupational pain management rehabilitation setting in the United Kingdom. Since returning to Australia and rejoining Physiotas in 2013, Megan completed her Master's in Pain Management at Sydney University and now holds the title of APA Titled Pain Physiotherapist. She has also completed additional courses in headache management, shoulder pain, and pilates. Outside of work, Megan enjoys hiking and gardening.
Myotherapist
Mick Brotja
Mick is a highly experienced Myotherapist who has been treating patients since 2008. He has spent most of his professional career working with high-performance teams in the field of elite sports. Mick joined Physiotas in 2018. For seven years, Mick worked as the Head of Myotherapy at Western Bulldogs Football Club (AFL). In more recent years, he has served as the soft tissue coordinator for the Melbourne Rebels Rugby Union Club in the Super Rugby Competition. He also serves as the game day Myotherapist for Sydney Swans Football Club (AFL). Being a skillful practitioner, Mick is passionate about treating all kinds of sports injuries, from the elite to the everyday athletes. Apart from work, Mick enjoys playing basketball, going to the gym, and spending time with his two young sons.
Physiotherapist
Mikayla Bardwell
Mikayla completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) in 2023 at the University of Newcastle, NSW. She relocated to start work at Physiotas at the start of 2024, where she is based between our Devonport and Ulverstone clinics. Mikayla is an ALA Accredited Lymphoedema Therapist and trained through the Australian Lymphoedema Association. She enjoys treating lymphoedema and lipoedema patients from all backgrounds, particularly those who have experienced or are currently undergoing breast cancer treatment or experience venous insufficiency type issues. She offers manual lymphatic drainage, bandaging and garment prescription and ensures patients are well educated on their condition from diagnosis through to self management. Mikayla has also completed her Level 1 Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy course through the APA, and has a passion for educating around and assisting in managing chronic respiratory diseases. Aside from these speciality areas, Mikayla also sees a wide range of other injuries and chronic conditions. Outside of work, she likes to spend time with her cat, Zook, or seeing friends and calling family. She enjoys getting outside on the weekends, and will often be found on a hike or at the beach if she’s not working on one of her craft projects.
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Physiotherapist
Molly Creagh
Molly joined the Physiotas team in Launceston in January 2024. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Otago in 2016. Molly is passionate about pelvic health, chronic pain, lower back injuries, and sports injuries. Her approach to physiotherapy incorporates a holistic model of healthcare, focusing on the individual goals of her clients. Outside of work, Molly enjoys traveling, music, and outdoor activities. You might find her trail running, hiking, swimming, or rock climbing.
Physiotherapist
Nathan Philip
Nathan completed his Master of Physiotherapy degree in 2018 at the University of South Australia. He is the Clinical Manager at our Launceston sites, where he trains and supports new physiotherapists. Nathan has a special interest in post-spinal surgery rehab/protocols, spinal pain, jaw pain, headache management, hand/wrist management (including splint making), and osteoarthritis management. Nathan's approach to physiotherapy involves listening carefully to his patients to gather information that helps him formulate an accurate diagnosis. From this, he creates a personalised management plan to achieve the best results. Nathan has been a committee member of the Sports Physiotherapy Australia group for a long time. This group aims to promote education and support physiotherapists involved in the sports scene in Tasmania. In his free time, Nathan enjoys spending time with his new puppy, coaching the South Launceston Cricket Club, and playing golf.
Receptionist
Odette Carpenter
Odette started working with our reception team at Physiotas in 2013. Being a part of a supportive and fun group of people at Physiotas is something that Odette loves. Over the years, she has witnessed the growth of the business and feels fortunate to have been a part of it. Apart from her work, Odette loves spending time with her family and friends, engaging in outdoor activities, and staying active.
Exercise Physiologist
Portia Cook
Portia completed her Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of Tasmania in 2021. She furthered her education by earning a Master's degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology from Charles Sturt University. Portia joined the Physiotas team in 2023. Through her studies and practical experiences, Portia has gained extensive knowledge in working with diverse populations. She focuses on creating personalised approaches that enhance physical function, manage chronic conditions, and improve overall quality of life. Portia has a particular interest in collaborating with individuals from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and those with neurological conditions, especially children and adolescents. With over 10 years of experience in rowing, she also enjoys running, going to the gym, reading, and spending quality time with friends and family. Portia is excited to bring her expertise and enthusiasm to the Physiotas team. She looks forward to making a positive impact on her clients’ lives by fostering independence and promoting long-term well-being.
Physiotherapist
Renae Kelly
Renae joined Physiotas in 2016 after completing a Masters of Physiotherapy in South Australia. During her time with Physiotas, Renae has developed a keen interest in treating hand, neck, and shoulder injuries. She finds the supportive and encouraging environment at Physiotas to be very fulfilling. Apart from her professional life, Renae likes to keep herself active and enjoys gardening, renovating, and spending time with her family.
Physiotherapist
Dr Sally McLaine
Sally joined Physiotas when the practice was established in Launceston in 2017, having previously served as a Director of Active Physio. Sally is a Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist accredited by the APA, with a focus on treating shoulder, swimming and running injuries. She earned the title of Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist after completing the Sports Physiotherapy postgraduate program in Perth, WA. Sally recently completed a PhD at UTas, where she conducted research on shoulder strength and injury in swimmers. She has published and presented her research extensively over the past years. Sally is an active member of Sports Medicine Australia and the Shoulder and Elbow Physiotherapists of Australasia. She is also part of the medical network for the Tasmanian Institute of Sport. Sally has had a distinguished career, having worked as a sports physiotherapist at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and Melbourne Commonwealth Games. She has also worked with several local sports teams, including AFL, basketball, cricket and swimming. In her free time, Sally enjoys hiking and running, both on roads and trails. She has completed a marathon in every state and now indulges in running a few ultra-distances on trails.
Exercise Physiologist
Shani Burleigh
Shani is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist who graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science from Deakin University. After completing her degree, she pursued a Diploma of Clinical Pilates and then went back to Deakin to earn a Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology, graduating in 2019. After graduation, Shani worked in private practice in Melbourne before returning to Tasmania after living in Melbourne for 9 years. Throughout her career, Shani has gained experience in managing chronic diseases, orthopaedic rehabilitation, musculoskeletal conditions, and working in both private and public hospital settings. She has a particular interest in women's health conditions, including PCOS, endometriosis, pelvic floor concerns, pre and post-natal care, and returning to exercise after giving birth. In her free time, Shani enjoys exploring new parts of Tasmania and staying active. She was a former National swimmer representing Australia and now enjoys using her knowledge to help others achieve their health and fitness goals.
Receptionist
Taya Mansour
COMING SOON ...
Physiotherapist
Tayla Burk
Tayla completed her Master of Physiotherapy at Flinders University in 2017 and joined the Physiotas team in 2018. Her area of expertise is pediatrics and early childhood intervention. Tayla is also experienced in managing osteoarthritis and is one of our GLA:D accredited practitioners. When she is not at work, Tayla is a busy mother and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.
Exercise Scientist
Taylah Dickson
COMING SOON ...
Receptionist
Victoria Blackberry
COMING SOON ...