Meet the Team

Physiotherapists

  • Physiotherapist & Director

    B.AppSc (phyty) (Hons 1)

    After commencing a degree in Exercise Physiology, Daniel’s interest in human biomechanics and anatomy soon led him to Physiotherapy where he graduated from the University of Sydney with honours in facial nerve paralysis and TMJ assessment and treatment. Director at Phytness Healthcare since 2011, Dan is passionate about delivering excellence in physiotherapy to our community.

    Dan’s high standards in care extend throughout the company policy of long appointment times, staff educational training and allowances and interpersonal development.

    With continued research and constant upskilling, he has his finger on the pulse across diverse areas of Physiotherapy that is evidenced based, up to date and pushes the boundaries of old school thinking.

    Long term management through strength and conditioning utilising Pilates and body dynamics is something Dan is focused on and his treatments are concise, specific and considered to every individual client.

    Dan is available for expedition consulting and trips where medical and physiotherapy treatments are required for athletes and staff to the most remote places.

    Dan has worked with professional track athletes and football teams and is particularly interested in musculoskeletal and sports specific injuries. Daniel has travelled internationally to provide physiotherapy for the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) as part of World Cup and World Championship Mountain Bike Races. His interest in rock climbing, running, surfing, mountain bike riding and skiing have provided him with first-hand experience in sports specific prevention, performance and injury management.​

    Daniel provides the following treatments:

    Clinical Pilates

    Dry needling

    Professional bike set-ups

    Muscle energy techniques

    Rock climbing specific injuries

    Orthotic prescription

    Facial nerve conditions

    Temporomandibular disorders

    Vertigo management

    Concussion management

    Accredited NDIS provider

    Real-time film biomechanical feedback - vimove software accredited

    Available for expedition and remote consulting.

  • Physiotherapist & Director

    B.Phty (Physio)

    Having completed his Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2011, Bart has worked to develop a diverse skill set as a Physiotherapist. Currently a keen surfer and water skier, it was a background of AFL, swimming and tennis which lead Bart to pursue Physiotherapy.

    Bart's role as a Physiotherapist has seen him travel overseas, working with athletes competing at an international level in mountain biking, road cycling and cross country skiing.

    Bart brings a professional and fun approach to the Phytness team and is uncompromising in his desire to bring out the best in all his patients.

  • Physiotherapist & Director

    B.AppSc (phyty) | MHlthSc (manip. thpy)

    Angela brings over 30 years of clinical experience with a keen interest in Women's Health and pelvic floor physiotherapy. Her involvement in physiotherapy began well before this with her mum working as a physio in a private practice. Angela was inspired to join a profession where she could help people recover from their injuries and improve their health and wellbeing.

    Angela completed a Masters of Health Science in Manipulative Therapy in 2000 and also focuses on back and neck pain, sports injuries and post operative rehabilitation. She is a member of the Women's Health Training Associates (WHTA) and believes good healthcare is based on undertaking a full objective history and examination of the patients presenting issue and cause to ensure early and accurate diagnosis. All of which informs tailored treatment and self-management strategies to meet the clients desired goals.

    Angela is clinically focussed on:

    Women's health

    Particularly persistent pelvic pain and dyspareunia

    Pelvic organ Prolapse and pessary management

    Stress and Urge Incontinence

    Bladder Dysfunction

    Pregnancy and Post Partum physio and pelvic care.

    Mastitis and blocked ducts

    Pelvic pain related to endometriosis and other disorders

  • Physiotherapist & Director (Dapto)

    B.PreMedScHlth (Ex Sci)

    MPhty

    Matt has always had a passion for empowering people to optimise their health outcomes.

    Following his Bachelor of Pre-Medicine, Health and Science at the University of Wollongong, Matt completed his Masters of Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney.

    Since becoming a registered physiotherapist, Matt works primarily in the musculoskeletal

    sector of private practice. He has an interest in sports injury rehabilitation; having spent

    enough time as a patient from his time playing representative soccer and futsal.

    Matt's area of expertise include

    5 years aged care experience

    NDIS passion

    Post surgical intervention

    Helping patients achieve their functional goals.

    ​

  • Physiotherapist

    BExSci | MPT

    Merek graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Exercise Science from Truman State University, USA, in 1996. Her athletic background and a desire to have a positive influence in people’s lives led her to pursue a Master in Physical Therapy from the University of Iowa in 1998. Her career began in pediatrics, shifted to aged care and rehabilitation, and then on to treating musculoskeletal injuries in a private practice setting in Wyoming for 10 years. The rugged lifestyle in Wyoming, including ranching and rodeo, led her to gain experience in the rehabilitation of shoulder injuries, back pain, and joint replacements.

    Merek and her family relocated to Australia in 2014 to escape the long cold winters. The beautiful weather has allowed her to renew her interest in swimming and golf. Her and her husband have 2 children and a golden retriever. They enjoy spending their time outdoors, especially at the dog beach, and have enjoyed learning about new sports such as netball and Oztag. Merek strongly believes in empowering patients to manage their own health needs and achieve their goals.

  • Physiotherapist

    B.AppSc (phyty)

    After attaining her physiotherapy qualification from the University of Sydney, in 1992, Shari worked in the public hospital system for 4 years gaining broad experience in acute medical and surgical, orthopedics, head injury, stroke and amputees. Since 1997, Shari has worked in private practice assessing and managing musculoskeletal injuries.

    Shari has a particular interest in sports injuries, and injuries of children and adolescents. Over the last 20 years, Shari has worked with the Illawarra Steelers Rugby League teams (U/15-U/19), Australian men's Fast Pitch (softball), Australian U/19 men's Fast Pitch, physiotherapist at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, State Masters Hockey and Touch Football championships and more recently (last 6 years), team physiotherapist for the Illawarra District State Age netball (U/12-U/15's).

    Shari prides herself on keeping up to date with the latest in injury management and values the importance of accurate diagnosis.

    She has 2 children who she loves keeping active with, enjoying running, surfing, netball, cycling and oztag.

  • Clinical Governance Coordinator

    Physiotherapist

    BHlthSc MPhyty

    Andrew has attained both a Master of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Health Science from the University of Sydney.

    Since becoming a registered physiotherapist, he has worked primarily in musculoskeletal physiotherapy in the private sector. Andrew has also pursued further training in the Mulligan Concept of Manual Therapy and Clinical Pilates, increasing the skills he can apply in helping his patients relieve their pain and achieve their goals.

    Andrew’s main interests are cricket, rugby league, tennis and snowboarding. He has played cricket for several years in the Illawarra. During this time, Andrew was thankful for his physiotherapist who allowed him to continue playing, leading to Andrew’s pursuit of a physiotherapy career.

  • Physiotherapist

    B.App.Sc. Physiotherapy

    Masters of Health Leadership and Management

    Born and bred in the Illawarra, Damien have been involved in our local sports community from a young age. He is passionate about connecting with people and empowering them to achieve their health and fitness goals. Damien possess over 25 years of extensive physiotherapy experience in both private practice and in public hospitals within Australia and internationally in the areas of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, rehabilitation and orthopaedics.

    Damien has honed his skillset specifically in occupational physiotherapy, delivering high quality care within the workplace across a multitude heavy and light industries.

    Areas of interest:

    -Assisting people recover from sports, leisure and work-related injuries

    -Physiotherapy rehabilitation following shoulder, knee, foot and spinal surgery

    -Gym strengthening programs, work conditioning, clinical Pilates, hydrotherapy,

    pre employment functional testing

    -Musculoskeletal dry needling

    -Occupational Physiotherapy

    Hobbies:

    Swimming, gym, mountain/road cycling, golf and travel

    Spending time with his wonderful family in the great outdoors.

    Damien offers:

    Soft tissue treatment, specific to sports injuries

    Muscle energy techniques

    Dry Needling

    Clinical Pilates

    Taping techniques for sports persons

    TMJ (Jaw) treatment

    Vertigo/Headaches

    Onsite occupation physiotherapy

  • Physiotherapist

    B.Physio

    Steff graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Newcastle in 2012. Steff’s interests and desire to continue to learn have taken her through many different avenues of advanced training in Physiotherapy, Including Sports, Paediatrics and Pelvic Health. Steff has worked in private practices in Sydney and the Illawarra. Gaining a wealth of knowledge and clinical experience along the way.

    After experiencing the rollercoaster of pregnancy, postpartum and now manoeuvring through parenthood Steff’s desire to help mothers and mothers –to- be has become a driving factor in her career.

    Steff’s advanced training in Pelvic health include Women’s Health Training Associates (WHTA) Courses; Intensive Introductory Women’s Health and Advanced training in Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Stress Urinary Incontinence. Along with Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) Courses Women’s Health Level 1 and Addressing pelvic floor support and function in strength training.

    As a practitioner Steff offers a safe space for women to discuss their health issues that have historically been seen as taboo, too personal to talk about or something that you should just ‘deal with’ by yourself. By providing women with education, and exploring their concerns and options for treatment and management they are supported and empowered to reach their goals and live a healthy, happy life.

  • Physiotherapist

    BAppSc (Ex Sc) M Physio

    Tony is a highly energetic, thorough and enthusiastic physiotherapist. He is always looking for treatment and rehabilitation solutions to create a positive change for his clients. Following his Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Wollongong, Tony completed his Masters of Physiotherapy at the University of Technology, Sydney. Since graduating and becoming a registered physiotherapist, Tony has had experience working in a hospital setting primarily focused on rehabilitation, as well as a private clinical setting.

    Tony enjoys the ever-growing nature of physiotherapy, keeping up to date with the most relevant and accurate interventions, and adapting treatment to provide the best care for each individual patient.

    Areas of interest include:

    Post surgical intervention and rehabilitation

    Management of acute/overuse injuries

    Sports/Work related injuries and rehabilitation

    NDIS

  • Physiotherapist

    B.ExSc M.Phyt

    Clinical interests:

    • Lower limb rehabilitation of the knee, hip and ankle - particularly ACL injuries

    • Post surgical rehabilitation

    • Tendinopathy

    • Muscle and Joint pain

    • Return to Run/Return to Sport rehabilitation and Testing

    • NDIS

    Additional skills/titles:

    • Dry needling

    • Level 1 Sports Trainer

    • Sports taping

    • Drug and Alcohol testing

    • Member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Sports Physiotherapy Australia

    Tom attained a Bachelor of Exercise Science at the University of Wollongong before completing a Masters of Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney. Tom has long been involved in the local community, playing numerous sports including AFL, cricket and basketball.

    Tom has a keen interest in treating musculoskeletal pain due to his own extensive injury history. Tom has sustained two ACL ruptures, undergoing an ACL reconstruction as well as being one of the first patients to undertake the Cross Bracing Protocol. Due to these experiences, Tom strives to empower his patients to reach their goals whether that be to return to the sporting field or to have no pain in their daily life.

    Tom has previous experience in a range of disciplines including working as a Strength and Conditioning coach for the Sydney Swans Academy, working as a Sports Trainer for local sporting teams in the community, and neurological rehabilitation with NDIS participants.

  • Physiotherapist

    BExSc M.Phty

    Clinical interests:

    Shoulder pain

    Degenerative joint pain

    Musculoskeletal and sports injuries

    Acute and Chronic injuries

    Tendon and load injuries

    Ergonomic and occupational injuries & management

    Neck pain and headaches

    Geriatric care

    Ndis participants

    Additional skills:

    Manual handling training

    Drug and Alcohol testing

  • Physiotherapist


    B.ExScRehab | M.Physio

    Annika is an enthusiastic Physiotherapist and Exercise Physiologist who is passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities return to doing what they love. She completed her Bachelor of Exercise Science & Rehabilitation at the University of Wollongong before graduating with a Master of Physiotherapy from UTS.

    With a strong foundation in functional rehabilitation, Annika takes a patient-centred, evidence-based approach to deliver high-quality, tailored care. She has a particular interest in musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation and neurological conditions, and is committed to supporting her patients through every stage of their recovery.

    Outside the clinic, Annika enjoys staying active, swimming, spending time with her dogs and adventuring around the world!

  • Physiotherapist

    BAppSc (Ex Sc) M Physio

    Clinical interests:

    Hayley has always had a passion for sport, but it was through her own experience with injuries that she discovered the profound impact a physiotherapist can have on recovery. Inspired by the guidance and support she received, Hayley decided to pursue a career in physiotherapy to help others return to the activities they love.

    Hayley earned a Bachelor of Exercise Science from the University of Wollongong before completing her Master of Physiotherapy at the University of Technology Sydney. She has a special interest in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, sports injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

    Outside of her physiotherapy practice, Hayley enjoys staying active through gym workouts, sports and spending time outdoors at the beach or in nature. She also values quality time with family and friends. Hayley is dedicated to promoting long-term wellness and functional independence, empowering her patients to lead active, fulfilling lives.

  • Physiotherapist

    BAppSc (Ex Sc) M Physio

    Clinical interests:

    Lara is a dedicated and compassionate physiotherapist who has a special interest in musculoskeletal, paediatric and post-surgical rehabilitation. She obtained a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science at the University of Wollongong before completing her Masters of Physiotherapy from the University of Technology Sydney. 

    Outside of work, Lara loves spending time at the beach, with family and friends or playing tennis. Lara is dedicated to delivering personalised care that focuses on each individual's goals so that they can get back to doing what they love!

  • Physiotherapist

    BAppSc (Ex Sc) M Physio

    Clinical interests:

    Emmett is a dedicated physiotherapist who combines a patient-centered approach with evidence-based practices to help patients recover and prevent future injuries. After completing a Bachelor of Exercise Science at the University of Wollongong and a Master of Physiotherapy at the University of Technology Sydney, Emmett has developed skills in all areas with particular interests in sporting injuries and persistent pain conditions. In 2021, Emmett worked with professional athletes at Wellington Phoenix FC, gaining valuable insights into injury prevention, rehabilitation, and the demands of elite sports. His experience in a hospital pain clinic further deepened his interest in managing chronic pain conditions, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on patient care. Outside of work, Emmett has been an active participant in sports such as running, rugby league, AFL, and touch football. His love for outdoor activities, including surfing, hiking, and camping, reflects his commitment to leading an active, balanced lifestyle. Emmett takes a multifactorial approach to physiotherapy, focusing on each patient’s goals to promote recovery and prevent recurrence. He is passionate about staying up-to-date with the latest research to provide the best possible care.

Exercise Physiologist | Podiatrist | Sports Physician

  • Exercise Physiologist

    B.ExScRehab (Hons 1)

    Since graduating from the University of Wollongong with first class honours in a Bachelor of Exercise Science and Rehabilitation in 2001, Liz has gained extensive experience working in both the public health system and private practice.

    Liz focuses on the management of chronic conditions and musculoskeletal injuries. Liz utilises home, gym and hydrotherapy based programs to assist clients to improve their function and achieve sustainable long term self management of their condition.

    Liz enjoys endurance Mountain Biking, competing at a national and international level.

  • Exercise Physiologist

    B.ExScRehab

Stephan Praet | Phytness Healthcare

  • Sports Physician

    MD, PhD, FEBSM, FACSEP

    As a Sport & Exercise Physician Dr. Praet possesses specialist expertise in general medicine, orthopaedics, radiology & rehabilitation plus allied sport sciences including nutrition, biomechanics, exercise physiology & sports psychology.

    Dr. Praet also has a special interest in (neural) prolotherapy through Lyftogt Perineural Injection Treatment (P.I.T.) to treat chronic myofascial (nerve) pain, osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, ligament injuries & TMJ-dysfunction.

    Dr. Praet covers most sports medicine related problems, but has a special interest in:

    Running injuries to the foot, lower limb, groin, pelvis and lower back.

    Concussion management.

    Bone stress injuries and Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (RED-S).

    Sports nutrition and Nutraceuticals.

    Medical imaging and treatment of Tendinopathies.

    Treatment of Myofascial trigger points, and Lyftogt P.I.T. (neuro)prolotherapy (dextrose injections) for chronic myofascial (nerve) pain, osteoarthritis, ligament injuries and TMJ dysfunction.

    Muscle deconditioning and exercise prescription in chronic illnesses, such as cancer, heart failure, COPD, Long COVID-19, mitochondrial myopathies and type 2 diabetes.

    Cardiovascular risk assessment, heart rate variability and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET).

    Dr. Praet has a strong scientific background and has co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters. He has been involved in a wide array of research projects on the clinical application of exercise testing and exercise prescription in Metabolic Syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, Cancer cachexia and Mitochondrial myopathy patients.

    To learn more about Dr Praet, visit his website here.

  • Dr Mark Jones graduated from Sydney University in1984 and became a consultant Doctor specialising in sporting and musculoskeletal injuries. He won the Australasian College of Sports Physicians Medal in obtaining Sports Medicine Specialty Fellowship in 1994.

    Dr Jones’ own sporting background involved distance running at an international level, including representing Australia at the World University Cross-Country Championships in Italy, 1988. His passion for track field followed him during his early career where he was the team doctor for a number of representative State and National Track and Field teams, including the Oceania (Australia/New Zealand) team at the 1998 Athletics World Cup, South Africa.

    In 1987, Dr Jones was appointed the Team Doctor to the former Illawarra Steelers and went on to continue his role with the St. George Illawarra Dragons in National Rugby League competition until 2002.

    In 1998 he became Team Doctor to the Wollongong Wolves in the National Soccer League for 7 years, assisting them to 2 NSL championship titles.

    Dr Jones was appointed Team Doctor to the Australian Senior Men's Football Team ('The Socceroos') in 2006, a role which continues to involve his attendance at all matches and training sessions, both domestic and internationally. This included the 2014 Football World Cup in Brazil, and the Socceroos' 2015 Asian Cup Finals tournament win.

    He was club doctor to the Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club in 2012 for their initial 2 A-League seasons and subsequent inaugural Asian Champions League (ACL) campaign. Wanderers won the premiership in their inaugural season, were Grand Finalists those first 2 years, and won the 2014 ACL title.

    In 2014, Dr Jones was appointed Head of Medical Services at Football Federation Australia (FFA) to oversee and manage all medical/sports science matters pertaining to all Australian national football teams, the National Football Leagues, and football at a community level throughout Australia.visit his website here

    To learn more about Dr Jones, visit his website here.

  • Exercise Physiologist

    B.ExScRehab

  • Exercise Physiologist

    B.ExScRehab

  • Exercise Physiologist

    B.ExScRehab

    Kyle graduated from the University of Wollongong with a Bachelor of Exercise Science and Rehabilitation in 2025. Kyle has a major focus on building rapport with all clientele and delivers with an evidence based approach. Kyle has always had an interest in Exercise Physiology through his own experience and training, and has a passion for using exercise to help clients achieve their chosen goals. He has a special interest in working with those with musculoskeletal rehabilitation such as Chronic Lower Back Pain and Post surgical intervention and rehabilitation, as well as working with NDIS participants.

    Outside of work, Kyle enjoys training for AFL and long distance running, as well as spending time with family and friends.

    Kyle is dedicated to delivering personalised care with an evidence based approach that focuses on each individual's goals.

  • Podiatrist

    B.AppSc (pod)

    Dane Sephton graduated with a Bachelor of Podiatry at University of Western Sydney in 2006. Since graduating he has worked in both the private and public sector in Sydney and the United Kingdom.

    Dane is dedicated in helping his local community.

    Dane enjoys all aspects of podiatry, but has a special interest in the treatment and management of the diabetic population. Dane has a strong interest in sports mechanics and the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries.

    He regularly attends local and national seminars and conferences furthering his continual education and clinical development.

    Dane enjoys playing all sports. He plays first grade squash and understands the demands of top level sports enthusiasts.

Massage Therapist | Dietitian

  • Dietitian

    B Sci (Ex Sci & Nutr) M. Sci (Nutr & Diet) APD

    Beck has been an Accredited Practising Dietitian since 2008, primarily working within the areas of research and private practice. Beck’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (Exercise Science and Nutrition) and Masters of Science (with Distinction) in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Wollongong.

    Beck’s research and clinical experience is in a broad range of areas including weight loss and management; general healthy eating; lipid management; heart disease; IBS; diabetes; women’s and men’s health. Beck likes to use a holistic lifestyle approach to health, working with clients to incorporate healthy practices into all areas of their lifestyle.

    Beck loves to promote a positive relationship with food and is enthusiastic about sharing her passion for and enjoyment of food. She loves to explore new foods, cuisines and cooking but understands that may not be the case for everyone. Beck enjoys and has been successful working with clients to assist them in making positive lifestyle changes and achieving goals related to healthy practice by providing practical, everyday advice and support.

  • Remedial Massage Therapist

    Diploma of Remedial Massage (TAFE NSW) | Bachelor of Exercise Science (UOW)

    Shari is an enthusiastic Remedial Massage Therapist with a strong background in human movement, competitive sport, and client-focused care. With a Diploma of Remedial Massage and a Bachelor of Exercise Science from the University of Wollongong, Shari combines clinical knowledge with hands-on skills to support people in moving better, managing chronic and acute pain, and living well.

    Her treatments are tailored to each individual and may include:

    • Deep Tissue & Sports Massage

    • Soft Tissue Release (STR)

    • Trigger Point Therapy

    • Myofascial Release

    • PNF Stretching

    • Relaxation and Stress Reduction Techniques

    Shari works with a wide range of clients – from athletes managing training loads and injuries, to people navigating chronic pain, postural tension, or the everyday physical and emotional stressors of life. You can also catch Shari at our admin desks, helping out with customer service needs, throughout the week.

    Shari’s massage services are Deaf-friendly. If you are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, please contact Shari directly to learn more about how her services can be best suited for you. Contact; sharih@phytness.com.au

    - Private health rebates available September 2025 

  • Massage Therapist

    Dip Rem. Massage from TAFE NSW | Balanced Body Mat Pilates Instructor

    Tammy has 9 years experience as a massage therapist and will tailor each session to your needs on the day of your treatment. She loves learning from her clients and working with them to manage symptoms ranging from stress, headaches and teeth clenching to neck, low back or hip tension, right down to foot pain. Tammy also loves to spoil a pregnant mum.

    Remedial massage targets areas of tension in the body using various techniques such as myofascial cupping or stretching and can help with pain and dysfunction from chronic illness, sport and fitness training or sitting for long periods. Massage is particularly good at easing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

    Tammy is a professional Member of Association of Massage Therapists (AMT) and is registered for Private Health Fund rebates (as funds vary in how they apply rebates and change guidelines periodically, please check with your specific fund regarding eligibility).

Administration Manager

  • Administration Manager

  • Accounts Manager