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Meet the team
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Dr Les Roberts-Thomson
MBBS, FRACGP, FACRRM, DRANZCOG (Adv.), DTM&H
Dr Les Roberts-Thomson grew up on a potato farm in Tasmania, and did most of his training in North Queensland, before moving to Moruya in 2004. Along the way, he has done some work in Papua New Guinea and Ethiopia. Apart from work, he enjoys cricket, cycling and the snow.
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Dr Neil Starmer
MBBS (UNSW), MPH & TM (JCU), FRACGP
Dr Neil Starmer graduated in medicine from UNSW in 1989 and plotted his escape from Sydney soon after. Neil has worked in hospitals and general practice in Sydney, the Central Coast, the Gulf of Carpentaria, Townsville and Darwin as well as on Royal Australian Navy ships and bases. Neil completed his General Practice training and a Masters in Public Health and Tropical Medicine while serving with the Royal Australian Navy. Neil left full time service with the RAN in 1999 to join the Queen Street Medical Practice as a partner and remains in the Navy Reserves. Neil chose to be a General Practitioner to provide continuing, comprehensive and coordinated health care to people in their own community. Neil appreciates the completeness of care that can be provided through working in both the general practice and Moruya Hospital. Neil has an additional interest in drug and alcohol medicine and is an accredited methadone prescriber. Neil is married with two children and enjoys being a part of the Eurobodalla community. Neil participates in a wide range of pursuits; his ideal day involves one major and two minor activities. His recreational interests include remaining fit, sailing, gardening and telemark skiing.
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Dr Ali Lavender
MBBS (London), FRACGP, DRCOG, DFFP
Alison, also known as Ali, qualified in 1992 from St Thomas's, London. She worked in South England before relocating to Australia with her family in 2005. She loves the outdoor lifestyle in Australia, with a particular interest in bushwalking, camping, and swimming in the ocean. As a medical professional, Ali is passionate about paediatrics and women's health. She is also a Specialist HIV prescriber with a keen interest in this field. -
Dr Judith Toman
MBBS (Qld), BSc, FRACGP, FACRRM, FARGP,MPH, Dip Paeds, DRANZCOG (Advanced)
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2000 after my first degree in Science from the Australian National University. I then worked at Nambour, Sydney Children’s, Wollongong and Shoalhaven Hospitals before I settled in Moruya in 2005. I am a VMO at Moruya Hospital in obstetrics and on the general ward, as well as providing general practice services in Moruya, Tuross Head and Broulee. My areas of interest are women's health and paediatrics, and I have a Diploma in Child Health and the Advanced Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. I also work with training GP registrars and medical students, and am passionate about medical teaching and training. I am a Senior Lecturer and the Academic Coordinator in the Eurobodalla for the ANU Faculty of Medicine. In this role I facilitate training the next generation of doctors, with a particular focus on the medical students who chose to live and study in our area for the third year of their medical studies.
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Dr Marie Bond
MBBS, M.Ed, B.Sc, B.Ed, FACRRM
My professional interests include emergency medicine and general practice for all ages groups, and all backgrounds. It is this variety of medical and surgical issues that makes it interesting. Further, it is the mix that is the Eurodoballa community that I enjoy meeting in my work as a rural GP.
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Dr Brenton Cole
MBBS, FACRRM, DRANZCOG (adv), DCH, Certificate in Musculoskeletal Medicine
I graduated from Wollongong university in 2011 and completed residency in Wollongong and Shoalhaven hospitals. I moved to the area in 2015 when I started work at Moruya maternity, before joining Queen Street Medical Centre to complete my ACRRM fellowship. I also have an interest in musculoskeletal medicine and I am passionate about improving the quality of life of people suffering with musculoskeletal pain. I have completed the Certificate of Musculoskeletal Medicine, and offer a range of treatment modalities including perineural injection treatment (Lyftogt method), trigger point therapy and prolotherapy. -
Dr Lisa Hyde
MBBS (Sydney), FRACGP, DRANZCOG
I was originally from the Hunter Valley. After graduating, my first jobs were at Gosford and Newcastle hospitals. I then moved overseas and completed a paediatric residency in the USA. I later lived and worked in Southern Africa for over five years. In 2011, I returned to Australia and settled on the South Coast, joining a team at Broulee, which later became part of the Queen Street Medical Centre. As a rural GP, I am especially interested in women’s health, pediatrics, and indigenous health. While I am no longer a member of the Obstetrics team at Moruya Hospital, I continue to enjoy serving my community in various medical capacities. -
Dr Emily Goodwin
BAppSc ForSc; MBBS
It was over ten years ago that I was first introduced by my partner to the hidden-jewel that is the South Coast. I fell in love. Years later, after completing my internship in Brisbane, I was fortunate enough to be accepted as a Resident at Moruya District Hospital. It was here I first had the pleasure of working with Judy, Les and Neil. I completed my GP training here, and am very excited to join the Queen Street Team. When I'm not working you might find me watching cricket in the summer, NRL in the winter, fishing on Coila or frolicking in my garden.
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Dr Eliza Dally
BMed/MD, FRACGP, DCH
I graduated from UNSW Medicine in 2015 and have since completed my General Practice training in Moruya in 2020. I’m excited to get back to work after a year off with my lovely daughter. I have an interest in sexual health, HIV medicine, palliative care and women’s health. -
Dr Polina Smerdova
MBBS
I graduated from the North-Western State Medical University, one of the major Russian universities for medical studies, in 2011. Following a comprehensive postgraduate training program in leading hospitals, I went on to specialise in General Practice with special interests in Neurology, Mental Health and Musculoskeletal Medicine.
For me, being a GP means everyday empathetic engagement with patients and finding professional fulfilment in tackling a wide interdisciplinary range of physical and mental health issues. I am happy and proud to offer my skills (but hopefully not my exceptional skills in managing frostbite!), experience and dedication to the South Coast community. When not being a doctor (though one never actually stops), I’m a keen traveller and enjoy bushwalking, bicycle riding and snowboarding. -
Dr Bronwyn Henderson
MBBS, MPhil, BHSc, BSc
I grew up in Batemans Bay and moved to Auckland in my early 20s to work in microscopy and then started as a front-line ambulance paramedic. I am ever motivated to learn and so returned to Aussie to study medicine in 2010. I graduated from the University of Wollongong Graduate School of Medicine in 2014 and have enjoyed working in the Illawarra, Eurobodalla and the Wingecarribee shires; mostly in emergency medicine. I love being able to help people in medicine by ascertaining their need and explaining their options. Being back in the South Coast as a Doctor in the General Practice and the Emergency Department is such a great place to help my kin. -
Dr Neil Mackay
MBBS, FACRRM
I grew up in Tasmania, where I completed my medical degree, graduating in 2013. I worked for two years in Launceston before heading up to the Sunshine Coast and Cairns in Queensland, where I lived and worked for four years training in Orthopaedics. I began my General Practice training in Pambula on the far South Coast in 2020, and joined the Queen Street Medical Centre in 2021. I have recently completed my Rural Generalist Fellowship with ACRRM with advanced skills in Emergency Medicine at Nowra Emergency Department in 2022. I have now returned to Moruya to settle down permanently with my young family. My special interest areas are in musculoskeletal, sports medicine, emergency medicine and men’s health. -
Dr Daniel Mealey
MBBS (Melb) Bach Biomed Sci (Grif) ACEM (Cert)
I graduated in Medicine from the University of Melbourne in 2011 under scholarship with the Australian Army, after completing a Biomedical Science degree. With a strong interest in humanitarian and emergency medicine, I found myself in Afghanistan, UAE, Sri Lanka and the Northern Territory providing medical support in war zones, as well as after natural disasters and in Indigenous communities. I really enjoy providing medical support to rural football clubs, and I'm looking forward to our local footy season starting! I am now completing my GP registrar training with this supportive and experienced team at Queen Street. Pictured is my rescue puppy Daisy - a country girl rescued from a hard life in Moree. Animal Welfare League introduced us on Channel 10's Season 1 premiere of "The Dog House." -
Dr Samantha Thomas
BMedSc(Hons) MBBS FRACGP
I grew up in Moruya and am excited to have moved back to the area with my young family. Since leaving school I have lived in Canberra and Sydney for tertiary education. I have had medical placements and volunteered across a range of locations, including Wagga Wagga, Bathurst, Darwin and the Philippines. My Junior Doctor years were spent working in a variety of North & Western Sydney hospitals, including Blacktown, Mt Druitt and Westmead. I chose General Practice as I am passionate about primary and preventative health care and I feel it is a privilege to provide longitudinal care to my patients. I have an interest in all areas of General Practice. -
Dr Kimberley Benson
MBBS (University of Wollongong), FRACGP
I moved to Australia from Canada in 2010 to study medicine at the University of Wollongong. After graduating in 2013, I worked for two years at Nepean Hospital in Western Sydney before moving to the South Coast to complete my general practice training. I am interested in all aspects of General Practice and value the continuity of patient care the specialty offers. My interests outside of work include spending time with my family, exercising, watching sports, and playing the piano. -
Dr Lachlan Shaw
MD University of Wollongong, Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) Charles Sturt University
I started my working life as a Paramedic in various areas of NSW and the ACT before transitioning to medicine after studying at the University of Wollongong. Growing up in rural NSW, I have always had a strong interest in rural generalist and emergency medicine. I have settled in Eurobodalla with my young family after training in Canberra and the Shoalhaven, and will complete my GP training at Queen Street Medical Centre, as well as continuing to work in the Emergency Department. I love the outdoors - fishing, diving, hiking, climbing and paddling and exploring the beauty of the South Coast. -
Dr Kate McAuliffe
MBBS University of Wollongong, Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Science) QLD Uni of Technology
After growing up in the Torres Strait, Mt Isa and Brisbane in Queensland, I fell in love with the NSW South Coast when I moved to Nowra to start medical training. I have worked in Canberra, Bega and the Shoalhaven. I am excited to join the team at Queen Street Medical Centre for my GP training and to settle in the area with my family. I chose to be a GP as I enjoy providing care at all stages of life, from the very young to the young at heart. When not working, I enjoy bush walking, camping and fishing. -
Dr Adam Wiley
BMed University of New EnglandI grew up in Canberra, but completed most of my training rurally in Tamworth and Armidale. I went on to spend the last few years rotating through various specialties of medicine such as obstetrics, intensive care and cardiology - including some time here in Moruya hospital back in 2020.With excitement I'm continuing with my GP training here at Queen Street with a passion for holistic health care and all areas of medicine - I'm actively welcoming new patients.Whilst not in the office I can be found hiking, bouldering and diving - having completed a certificate in wilderness medicine in the process! -
Dr Maddison Kane
BSc, MD, FRACGP I grew up in Country Victoria on the Murray River. My first career was in developing health policy for the Commonwealth Government. I then followed by childhood dream in studying medicine and graduated in 2019 from the University of Sydney. My journey as a doctor has so far taken me to various metropolitan, rural and remote places; most recently I lived and worked in Outback NSW for almost two years. Outside of work I like to try different crafts and experiment in the kitchen recreating favourite foods from my travels. -
Dr Feng Guo
MBBS, Doctor of Neurology Originally from Xi'an, China, a city known for its spectacular terracotta warriors, I have a diverse professional background. I hold an MBBS and a doctorate in neurology. Over the past two and a half years, I have honed my skills in various hospitals, including Royal Darwin Hospital, St George Hospital, Sutherland Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and Canterbury Hospital, here in Australia. My journey led me to Moruya, where I chose to pursue my GP training post. This decision was influenced by my love for this area, which I discovered during my travels from Tweed Heads to Eden. My special interests in paediatrics, neurology, aged care, and emergency medicine are not just professional pursuits, but also a reflection of my deep passion and commitment. Outside of my professional life, I am a person of diverse interests. I am particularly passionate about body surfing, jogging, and hiking. These activities not only keep me physically fit but also energize me for my professional responsibilities. My fluency in Mandarin allows me to connect with a diverse range of patients and colleagues, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding. -
Dietitian/Diabetes Educator El Laird
My Dietetic Career spans over 30 years, and includes private practice, community, and clinical practice, as well as student tertiary education training. Since immigrating from Cape Town, South Africa, to Australia in 2002, I was employed by NSW Health for 19 years as a Community and Hospital Dietitian, with the latter part of my tenure serving as a Specialist Diabetes Dietitian for the Tweed Byron Local Health District. I have a special interest in Diabetes, and recognising the positive role I have in assisting people living with diabetes to lead their best lives, I took to expand my scope of practice by completing a Post Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management in 2017, to become a Diabetes Educator. My husband and I relocated to the beautiful Bega Valley in mid-2021, where I combined my professional skills to commence private practice as both a Credentialed Diabetes Educator and Accredited Practicing Dietitian. I recognise there is an overabundance of information out there regarding both nutrition and diabetes, which can be overwhelming for clients to navigate, and to discern what is true or otherwise, and welcome the opportunity to support your clients with accurate and credible information, based on current best practice. I strive to create a positive environment where clients feel confident and encouraged to make healthy changes that are both realistic and sustainable. I believe my ability to develop rapport and understanding of everyone is key to developing a strong partnership with clients to work alongside them to achieve their health goals. As a result, my approach is holistic, with consideration of the social and environmental, and physiological aspects, as well as the emotional aspects in particular pertaining to food and nutrition. I believe I support my clients with person -centred care, to achieve outcomes that are both meaningful and valuable to them, and which aim to ease the burden.
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Dr Les Roberts-Thomson
Practice Principal Moruya & Broulee
MBBS, FRACGP, FACRRM, DRANZCOG (Adv.), DTM&H
Dr Les Roberts-Thomson grew up on a potato farm in Tasmania, and did most of his training in North Queensland, before moving to Moruya in 2004. Along the way, he has done some work in Papua New Guinea and Ethiopia.
Apart from work, he enjoys cricket, cycling and the snow. -
Dr Neil Starmer
Practice Principal Moruya & Broulee
MBBS (UNSW), MPH & TM (JCU), FRACGP
Dr Neil Starmer graduated in medicine from UNSW in 1989 and plotted his escape from Sydney soon after. Neil has worked in hospitals and general practice in Sydney, the Central Coast, the Gulf of Carpentaria, Townsville and Darwin as well as on Royal Australian Navy ships and bases.
Neil completed his General Practice training and a Masters in Public Health and Tropical Medicine while serving with the Royal Australian Navy. Neil left full-time service with the RAN in 1999 to join the Queen Street Medical Practice as a partner and remains in the Navy Reserves.
Neil chose to be a General Practitioner to provide continuing, comprehensive and coordinated health care to people in their own community. Neil appreciates the completeness of care that can be provided through working in both the general practice and Moruya Hospital. Neil has an additional interest in drug and alcohol medicine and is an accredited methadone prescriber.
Neil is married with two children and enjoys being a part of the Eurobodalla community. Neil participates in a wide range of pursuits; his ideal day involves one major and two minor activities. His recreational interests include remaining fit, sailing, gardening and telemark skiing. -
Dr Ali Lavender
Independent General Practitioner Moruya & Broulee
MBBS (London), FRACGP, DRCOG, DFFP
Alison, also known as Ali, qualified in 1992 from St Thomas’s, London. She worked in South England before relocating to Australia with her family in 2005. She loves the outdoor lifestyle in Australia, with a particular interest in bushwalking, camping, and swimming in the ocean.
As a medical professional, Ali is passionate about paediatrics and women’s health. She is also a Specialist HIV prescriber with a keen interest in this field.
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Dr Judith Toman
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
MBBS (Qld), BSc, FRACGP, FACRRM, FARGP, MPH, Dip Paeds, DRANZCOG (Advanced)
I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2000 after my first degree in Science from the Australian National University. I then worked at Nambour, Sydney Children’s, Wollongong and Shoalhaven Hospitals before I settled in Moruya in 2005. I am a VMO at Moruya Hospital in obstetrics and in the general ward, as well as providing general practice services in Moruya, Tuross Head and Broulee. My areas of interest are women’s health and paediatrics, and I have a Diploma in Child Health and an Advanced Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
I also work with training GP registrars and medical students and am passionate about medical teaching and training. I am a Senior Lecturer and the Academic Coordinator in the Eurobodalla for the ANU Faculty of Medicine. In this role, I facilitate training the next generation of doctors, with a particular focus on the medical students who chose to live and study in our area for the third year of their medical studies. -
Dr Marie Bond
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
MBBS, M.Ed, B.Sc, B.Ed, FACRRM
My professional interests include emergency medicine and general practice for all ages groups, and all backgrounds. It is this variety of medical and surgical issues that makes it interesting.
Further, it is the mix that is the Eurodoballa community that I enjoy meeting in my work as a rural GP. -
Dr Brenton Cole
Independent General Practitioner Moruya & Broulee
MBBS, FACRRM, DRANZCOG (adv), DCH, Certificate in Musculoskeletal Medicine
I graduated from Wollongong university in 2011 and completed my residency in Wollongong and Shoalhaven hospitals. I moved to the area in 2015 when I started work at Moruya maternity, before joining Queen Street Medical Centre to complete my ACRRM fellowship. I am also interested in musculoskeletal medicine and am passionate about improving the quality of life of people suffering with musculoskeletal pain.
I have completed the Certificate of Musculoskeletal Medicine, and offer a range of treatment modalities including perineural injection treatment (Lyftogt method), trigger point therapy and prolotherapy. -
Dr Lisa Hyde
Independent General Practitioner Broulee
MBBS (Sydney), FRACGP, DRANZCOG
I was originally from the Hunter Valley. After graduating, my first jobs were at Gosford and Newcastle hospitals. I then moved overseas and completed a paediatric residency in the USA. I later lived and worked in Southern Africa for over five years. In 2011, I returned to Australia and settled on the South Coast, joining a team at Broulee, which later became part of the Queen Street Medical Centre.
As a rural GP, I am especially interested in women’s health, pediatrics, and indigenous health. While I am no longer a member of the Obstetrics team at Moruya Hospital, I continue to enjoy serving my community in various medical capacities. -
Dr Emily Goodwin
Independent General Practitioner IRT Moruya
BAppSc ForSc; MBBS
It was over ten years ago that I was first introduced by my partner to the hidden-jewel that is the South Coast. I fell in love. Years later, after completing my internship in Brisbane, I was fortunate enough to be accepted as a Resident at Moruya District Hospital. It was here I first had the pleasure of working with Judy, Les and Neil.
I completed my GP training here, and am very excited to join the Queen Street Team. When I’m not working you might find me watching cricket in the summer, NRL in the winter, fishing on Coila or frolicking in my garden. -
Dr Eliza Dally
Independent General Practitioner Maternity leave Returning March 2025
BMed/MD, FRACGP, DCH
I graduated from UNSW Medicine in 2015 and have since completed my General Practice training in Moruya in 2020.
I’m excited to get back to work after a year off with my lovely daughter. I have an interest in sexual health, HIV medicine, palliative care and women’s health. -
Dr Polina Smerdova
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
MBBS
I graduated from the North-Western State Medical University, one of the major Russian universities for medical studies, in 2011. Following a comprehensive postgraduate training program in leading hospitals, I went on to specialise in General Practice with special interests in Neurology, Mental Health and Musculoskeletal Medicine.
For me, being a GP means everyday empathetic engagement with patients and finding professional fulfilment in tackling a wide interdisciplinary range of physical and mental health issues. I am happy and proud to offer my skills (but hopefully not my exceptional skills in managing frostbite!), experience and dedication to the South Coast community. When not being a doctor (though one never actually stops), I’m a keen traveller and enjoy bushwalking, bicycle riding and snowboarding. -
Dr Bronwyn Henderson
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
MBBS, MPhil, BHSc, BSc
I grew up in Batemans Bay and moved to Auckland in my early 20s to work in microscopy and then started as a front-line ambulance paramedic. I am ever motivated to learn and so returned to Aussie to study medicine in 2010. I graduated from the University of Wollongong Graduate School of Medicine in 2014 and have enjoyed working in the Illawarra, Eurobodalla and Wingecarribee shires; mostly in emergency medicine.
I love being able to help people in medicine by ascertaining their needs and explaining their options. Being back on the South Coast as a Doctor in the General Practice and the Emergency Department is such a great place to help my kin.
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Dr Neil Mackay
Independent General Practitioner Moruya and Broulee
MBBS, FACRRM
I grew up in Tasmania, where I completed my medical degree, graduating in 2013. I worked for two years in Launceston before heading up to the Sunshine Coast and Cairns in Queensland, where I lived and worked for four years training in Orthopaedics.
I began my General Practice training in Pambula on the far South Coast in 2020 and joined the Queen Street Medical Centre in 2021. I have recently completed my Rural Generalist Fellowship with ACRRM with advanced skills in Emergency Medicine at Nowra Emergency Department in 2022.I have now returned to Moruya to settle down permanently with my young family. My special interest areas are in musculoskeletal, sports medicine, emergency medicine and men’s health.
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Dr Daniel Mealey
General Practitioner Registrar Moruya, Finishing 24 July
MBBS (Melb) Bach Biomed Sci (Grif) ACEM (Cert)
I graduated in Medicine from the University of Melbourne in 2011 under scholarship with the Australian Army, after completing a Biomedical Science degree. With a strong interest in humanitarian and emergency medicine, I found myself in Afghanistan, UAE, Sri Lanka and the Northern Territory providing medical support in war zones, as well as after natural disasters and in Indigenous communities.
I really enjoy providing medical support to rural football clubs, and I’m looking forward to our local footy season starting!
I am now completing my GP registrar training with this supportive and experienced team at Queen Street Medical Centre.
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Dr Samantha Thomas
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
BMedSc (Hons) MBBS
I grew up in Moruya and am excited to have recently moved back to the area with my young family. Since leaving school I have lived in Canberra and Sydney for tertiary education. I have had medical placements and volunteered across a range of locations, including Wagga Wagga, Bathurst, Darwin and the Philippines. My Junior Doctor years were spent working in a variety of North & Western Sydney hospitals, including Blacktown, Mt Druitt and Westmead.
I chose General Practice as I am passionate about primary and preventative health care and I feel it is a privilege to provide longitudinal care to my patients. I have an interest in all areas of General Practice. -
Dr Kimberley Benson
Independent General Practitioner Moruya
MBBS (University of Wollongong), FRACGP
I moved to Australia from Canada in 2010 to study medicine at the University of Wollongong. After graduating in 2013, I worked for two years at Nepean Hospital in Western Sydney before moving to the South Coast to complete my general practice training.
I am interested in all aspects of General Practice and value the continuity of patient care the specialty offers.
My interests outside of work include spending time with my family, exercising, watching sports, and playing the piano. -
Dr Lachlan Shaw
General Practitioner Registrar Moruya
MD University of Wollongong, Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic) Charles Sturt University
I started my working life as a Paramedic in various areas of NSW and the ACT before transitioning to medicine after studying at the University of Wollongong. Growing up in rural NSW, I have always had a strong interest in rural generalist and emergency medicine. I have settled in Eurobodalla with my young family after training in Canberra and the Shoalhaven, and will complete my GP training at Queen Street Medical Centre, as well as continuing to work in the Emergency Department.
I love the outdoors – fishing, diving, hiking, climbing and paddling and exploring the beauty of the South Coast. -
Dr Kate McAuliffe
General Practitioner Registrar Moruya
MBBS University of Wollongong, Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Science) QLD Uni of Technology
After growing up in the Torres Strait, Mt Isa and Brisbane in Queensland, I fell in love with the NSW South Coast when I moved to Nowra to start medical training. I have worked in Canberra, Bega and the Shoalhaven. I am excited to join the team at Queen Street Medical Centre for my GP training and to settle in the area with my family. I chose to be a GP as I enjoy providing care at all stages of life, from the very young to the young at heart.
When not working, I enjoy bush walking, camping and fishing. -
Dr Adam Wiley
General Practitioner Registrar Moruya
BMed University of New England
I grew up in Canberra, but completed most of my training rurally in Tamworth and Armidale. I went on to spend the last few years rotating through various specialties of medicine such as obstetrics, intensive care and cardiology – including some time here in Moruya hospital back in 2020.With excitement I’m continuing with my GP training here at Queen Street with a passion for holistic health care and all areas of medicine – I’m actively welcoming new patients.Whilst not in the office I can be found hiking, bouldering and diving – having completed a certificate in wilderness medicine in the process! -
Dr Maddison Kane
Independent General Practitioner Moruya and Broulee
BSc, MD, FRACGP
I grew up in Country Victoria on the Murray River. My first career was in developing health policy for the Commonwealth Government. I then followed by childhood dream in studying medicine and graduated in 2019 from the University of Sydney. My journey as a doctor has so far taken me to various metropolitan, rural and remote places; most recently I lived and worked in Outback NSW for almost two years.Outside of work I like to try different crafts and experiment in the kitchen recreating favourite foods from my travels. -
Dr Feng Guo
General Practitioner Registrar Moruya and Broulee Commencing August
Originally from Xi’an, China, a city known for its spectacular terracotta warriors, I have a diverse professional background. I hold an MBBS and a doctorate in neurology. Over the past two and a half years, I have honed my skills in various hospitals, including Royal Darwin Hospital, St George Hospital, Sutherland Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and Canterbury Hospital, here in Australia.
My journey led me to Moruya, where I chose to pursue my GP training post. This decision was influenced by my love for this area, which I discovered during my travels from Tweed Heads to Eden. My special interests in paediatrics, neurology, aged care, and emergency medicine are not just professional pursuits, but also a reflection of my deep passion and commitment.
Outside of my professional life, I am a person of diverse interests. I am particularly passionate about body surfing, jogging, and hiking. These activities not only keep me physically fit but also energize me for my professional responsibilities.
My fluency in Mandarin allows me to connect with a diverse range of patients and colleagues, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding.
-
Dietitian/Diabetes Educator El Laird
Moruya
My Dietetic Career spans over 30 years, and includes private practice, community, and clinical practice, as well as student tertiary education training.
Since immigrating from Cape Town, South Africa, to Australia in 2002, I was employed by NSW Health for 19 years as a Community and Hospital Dietitian, with the latter part of my tenure serving as a Specialist Diabetes Dietitian for the Tweed Byron Local Health District.
I have a special interest in Diabetes, and recognising the positive role I have in assisting people living with diabetes to lead their best lives, I took to expand my scope of practice by completing a Post Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management in 2017, to become a Diabetes Educator.
My husband and I relocated to the beautiful Bega Valley in mid-2021, where I combined my professional skills to commence private practice as both a Credentialed Diabetes Educator and Accredited Practicing Dietitian.
I recognise there is an overabundance of information out there regarding both nutrition and diabetes, which can be overwhelming for clients to navigate, and to discern what is true or otherwise, and welcome the opportunity to support your clients with accurate and credible information, based on current best practice. I strive to create a positive environment where clients feel confident and encouraged to make healthy changes that are both realistic and sustainable. I believe my ability to develop rapport and understanding of everyone is key to developing a strong partnership with clients to work alongside them to achieve their health goals. As a result, my approach is holistic, with consideration of the social and environmental, and physiological aspects, as well as the emotional aspects in particular pertaining to food and nutrition. I believe I support my clients with person -centred care, to achieve outcomes that are both meaningful and valuable to them, and which aim to ease the burden.
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Making an appointment
Phone: Our phones are open from 8.30 am – 4.45 pm Monday to Friday Online: Book your appointment online anytime here Cancellations and fees: Please get in touch with us at least 24 hours before changing/cancelling your appointment. If you miss your appointment a $25 fee is payable upon re-booking.
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New Patients – temporary freeze
We apologize for the inconvenience, but unfortunately we have had to put a temporary freeze on accepting new patients to our Moruya and Broulee practices.This unfortunate situation is due to high demand, outstripping our available appointments.
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On-the-Day appointments
On-the-day appointments times are set aside each day for patients with urgent or serious problems when access to a doctor is essential.
