1046 Howitt Street Wendouree
03 5335 3200
info@lakehealthgroup.com.au

Team

Allied Health Care for the Ballarat Region

Physiotherapy Team

Michael Pierce

Sports Physiotherapist / Director
About Michael
B.App.Sci (Physio), GDip (Sports Physio)
Michael is a Sports Physiotherapist and Director of Lake Health Group. Having completed his physiotherapy degree at Lincoln School of Health Sciences in 1993, he quickly moved into private practice where he has over 25 years of experience. He completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Physiotherapy in 1998, which included work with the Geelong football club and time at the Australian Institute of sport. He has travelled extensively overseas with some of Australia’s best distance and Olympic marathon runners and was a physiotherapist at the Sydney Olympics. Michael has a special interest in knee and shoulder injuries as well as tendon rehabilitation. He enjoys treating runners, cyclists and triathletes and can perform running assessments and bike fits.
...and a little more!
A former elite triathlete, Michael cycles competitively with the Ballarat – Sebastopol cycling club as well as in the Lake Health Group triathlon team.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Michael Offers:

“I like to inspire others by practising what I preach. You can’t expect your clients to do their exercises or keep fit if you’re not prepared to do it yourself.” – Michael

Dr Joanne Kemp

Sports Physiotherapist
About Joanne
B App Sc(Physio), Master Sports Physio, PhD
Dr Joanne Kemp is a titled APA Sports Physiotherapist of 24 years’ experience, and has consulted to many National Sporting organisations on athletes with hip pain. Jo is also a NHMRC funded Research Fellow physiotherapist at the Latrobe Sports and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, Latrobe University, Melbourne. She has published multiple papers examining hip pain, hip arthroscopy and hip rehabilitation and has lectured at many state, national and international conferences on hip pathology in athletes. Jo is very pleased to be offering high quality, evidence based clinical services to all patients with hip and pelvic problems at Lake Health Group in Ballarat.
...and a little more!
In Jo’s spare time she balances her commitments between Latrobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre and spending quality time with her husband and 3 teenage children.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
    • Thursday
Joanne Offers:
“I am inspired by those who are willing to work hard to help themselves” – Jo

Ryan Hobbs

Titled Sports Physiotherapist
About Ryan
D.PHYSIO, B.BIOMED SCI
Ryan is an APA Titled Sports physiotherapist with a passion for helping all people young or old, athlete or weekend warrior. He has experience working with elite athletes including current roles with Western United F.C (A-League), Basketball Victoria, and previously as Head Physiotherapist for the North Ballarat Roosters Football Club (VFL). Ryan enjoys collaborating with sports medicine physicians and orthopaedic surgeons delivering the best available multidisciplinary care. Ryan takes an active approach to rehabilitation – so whether it is post-operative care, management of an acute injury or an ongoing problem, Ryan will provide tailored exercises and tools specific to you that will help increase the speed of your recovery, optimise performance, and prevent the risk of re-injury.
...and a little more!
An avid sports fan, Ryan plays football in the local BFL competition which gives him the unique experience of seeing things from both practitioner and patient point of view.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Ryan Offers:

“Exercise is medicine!” – Ryan

Kieran Toohey

Senior Physiotherapist
About Kieran
Master of Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Health Sciences
Kieran completed his Master of Physiotherapy training in Adelaide in 2015 and has since worked in both the private and public health sectors, treating people of all ages with musculoskeletal conditions. Prior to moving back to Ballarat in 2019, Kieran worked in Adelaide and Melbourne in private musculoskeletal physiotherapy clinics as well as with multiple sporting teams including Port Melbourne Football Club in the Victorian Football League for 3 years and Adelaide City Women’s Soccer Club in the South Australian Premier League. Kieran now spends his time working between Lake Health Group and the musculoskeletal and orthopaedic department at the Ballarat Base Hospital, working closely with orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians. He is also studying his Masters in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Kieran enjoys treating people of all ages with any complaint – from everyday aches and pains to sporting injuries in athletes of all levels of competition, providing evidence-based treatment to help people achieve their goals.
...and a little more!
A lover of all sport, Kieran spends his spare time running, in the gym or trying to tire out his Border Collie at the park.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Kieran Offers:

Jamie Chan

Senior Physiotherapist
About Jamie
Doctor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Biomedicine
Jamie completed his Doctor of Physiotherapy with Distinction at the University of Melbourne in 2014, having previously completed a Bachelor of Biomedicine. He has worked in private practice treating musculoskeletal and sports injuries, as well as teaching exercise/Pilates classes. Jamie has a particular interest in treating low back pain, neck pain, headaches and jaw-related issues. Jamie’s approach to treating musculoskeletal problems has a focus on identifying the causes of the issue, followed by an evidence-based, specific, tailored approach to prevent recurrence and re-injury. Jamie also believes everyone should be physically active and have goals. Through physiotherapy and exercise, he enjoys helping people of all ages problem-solve their way through issues and move better whether they be a sedentary desk-worker or a high-performing athlete. Being passionate about learning, Jamie is currently undertaking a Masters in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and coordinates final-year physiotherapy student placements at the clinic.
...and a little more!
Jamie spends his spare time loving the tumultuous journey of fatherhood, enjoys running and soccer, and performs with a Chinese dragon and lion dance team. He also volunteers with a not-for-profit organisation focused on empowering individuals and communities in developing countries through bicycles.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Jamie Offers:

“I love meeting clients of all ages, helping to empower them to move better and reach their goals.” – Jamie

Nathan Waters

Senior Physiotherapist
About Nathan
M.Physiotherapy Practice, B.Exercise and Sports Sci, B.Health Sci,
Nathan has a strong interest in assessing and treating sporting injuries across all age groups. Nathan graduated from La Trobe University with a Masters of Physiotherapy Practice having previously completed a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of Ballarat. Nathan ensures an individualised treatment plan to all clients to achieve their personal goals whether it be returning to sport, work or improving quality of life. Nathan is currently enrolled in a master’s degree in Sports and Exercise Physiotherapy.
...and a little more!
Nathan is passionate about sport, with experience in many competitive sports. Nathan believes in the importance of keeping active through all stages of life and is passionate about helping others to achieve this goal.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Nathan Offers:

“My role is to educate and empower patients to achieve their own physical goals” – Nathan

Liam Toohey

Liam Toohey

Senior Physiotherapist
About Liam
Bachelor of Health Sciences / Masters of Physiotherapy Practice(Honours) / Grad Cert PH / PhD / Masters of Clinical Epidemiology
Liam began his physiotherapy career in Melbourne in 2013, before moving to the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra to undertake his PhD investigating the occurrence and prevention of subsequent injury in athletes. Since completing his PhD, Liam has continued to work at the AIS with a particular focus on preventative health. Liam was the Head Physiotherapist for the Canberra Demons in the NEAFL for several years, has worked at the Commonwealth Games and has consulted with many National Sporting Organisations. He has published multiple research papers in international journals and presented at international conferences. Liam returned home to Ballarat in 2021 where he now shares his working time between the AIS and Lake Health Group. Liam has a particular interest in sports and lower limb injuries, with a strong focus on helping his clients to achieve their goals while also preventing the occurrence of future injuries.
...and a little more!
A keen (but mediocre in his own words) sports person, Liam enjoys most sports and is currently busy training for his next marathon. Liam enjoys the outdoors, being walked by his dog and spending time with his family.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Liam Offers:
Kate Van der Schyff

Kate Van der Schyff

Physiotherapist
About Kate
Bachelor of Exercise & Sports Science, Masters of Physiotherapy
Kate completed her Masters of Physiotherapy in 2016 at Griffith University on the Gold Coast, having previously completed a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science at the University of Ballarat (Federation University). After spending her career to date working in Sydney in the private practice sector, she moved back to her hometown of Ballarat in 2022. Having competed at a high level in both athletics and hockey, Kate is very passionate about and particularly interested in treating sports and musculoskeletal injuries. Whilst living in NSW, Kate enjoyed opportunities working with elite sports clubs and representative hockey, rugby and soccer teams. These teams included the Illawarra Steelers and U/20s Illawarra Dragons rugby league clubs. Kate has post graduate experience in dry-needling, aged care and disability services, treating vestibular conditions as well as an interest in building both her knowledge and experience in Paediatrics. She is also well credentialled in treating NDIS clients. Kate is committed to providing holistic and functional treatment plans for each individual.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Kate Offers:

Eliza Roughead

Physiotherapist
About Eliza
Masters of Physiotherapy
Since graduating from La Trobe University with a Masters of Physiotherapy Practice Eliza has been working in the private sector with a keen interest in treating both acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries. Eliza enjoys working with individuals of all ages and health conditions to achieve their goals and maximise their quality of life. Eliza’s strong interest in sporting injuries led her to being a physiotherapist for Western Bulldogs VFLW team and enjoys creating rehabilitation plans focusing on return to sport and maximising sporting performance. Eliza currently works at La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre working on reducing injuries in female footballers and has previously worked on hip studies led by Jo Kemp. Whilst studying Eliza completed paediatric placements in both Vietnam and India and placements in regional and metropolitan hospitals.
...and a little more!
Eliza grew up playing many sports predominately basketball and netball and has previously played for Ballarat Rush. Prior to returning to Ballarat she played Australian rules football for Marcellin in the VAFA. Outside of work she loves to travel and go out for brunch (don’t we all!!)
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
ElizaOffers:
Sally Punshon

Sally Punshon

Physiotherapist
About Sally
Bachelor of Physiotherapy
Sally began her Physiotherapy career in 1999.  She has broad experience within the inpatient and outpatient hospital setting addressing Acute and Rehabilitation needs including Amputee rehab.  These were also part of her work experiences in the UK and remote areas of Western Australia which she enjoyed thoroughly.  She has also had experience with Pilates in private practise with Lake Health Group.  In the last 10 years, Sally has turned her focus towards Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, and would like to align her love of sport with her work.  She has been involved in projects monitoring the need for hip/knee joint replacements; persistent lower back pain and evidence based best management of acute lower limb injuries.  Evidenced based practice is really important to Sally and her approach in managing her clients. Sally treats a wide range of clients and aims to educate them and promote an active recovery.  Seeing real and objective improvements in clients’ everyday lives, or achieving return to training, sport or work endeavours – is what really drives Sally to achieve the best outcomes for her clients.
...and a little more!
Sally enjoys being active and playing sport (especially tennis), music, theatre, gardening and spending time with her young family and having a good yarn and catch-up with friends.  She just needs more hours in every day…..
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
    • Tuesday and Thursday: AM
Sally Offers:

“

“I like to take time with my clients; to listen, be thorough and provide really clear explanations and education to improve their own knowledge.  This knowledge is vital in understanding their condition, the rehabilitation approach, prevention, self-management and a sense of control.” – Sally

Lachlan Ramsay

Physiotherapist
About Lachlan
Doctor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science
After completing a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science in Ballarat, Lachlan went on to graduate from the Doctor of Physiotherapy program at the University of Melbourne with distinction. Having previously worked with both the Ballarat Rush and St Patrick’s Senior Rugby teams, Lachlan has experience in integrating exercise rehabilitation to those returning to both casual and competitive environments. Lachlan has also combined his strong exercise background with postgraduate training in osteoarthritis management to deliver hip and knee treatments via the GLA:D program. He enjoys seeing his patients improve their ability to move and firmly believes that improvements in physical function significantly contribute to holistic health. In his spare time Lachlan enjoys staying fit and regularly plays football and tennis with his friends. He is a strong supporter of Australian music and often attends concerts for both rising and established artists. Lachlan enjoys helping those of all backgrounds. Whether you are an elite athlete or recreational jogger, Lachlan will incorporate both targeted and evidence-based treatments to help you achieve your health goals.
...and a little more!
Lachlan has previously played football for South Barwon Football club in Geelong, winning a reserves premiership. He was also an avid downhill skateboarder regularly riding at high speed down closed-circuit events. Lachlan can speak Japanese, having learnt at a year 12 level and has enjoyed learning about Japanese culture after spending time with a host family.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Lachlan Offers:

“I am invested in helping my patients achieve holistic health, I aim to assist in pain free movement so that my patients can have a head start towards achieving their overall health goals” – Lachlan

Jasper Walker-Corbet

Physiotherapist
About Jasper
M.PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE, B APPLIED SCI
Jasper has recently graduated his Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Physiotherapy Practice at La Trobe University. After completing his studies at La Trobe’s Bendigo campus, Jasper has returned to his home town to join the Lake Health Group team. Jasper enjoys seeing a wide range of people from all types of backgrounds. Jasper believes in a patient centred care approach and understands that every client is different. During his time as a student he found an interest in building meaningful relationships with clients to help them reach their goals. Jasper is looking forward to developing his skills and interests further and the learning opportunities available at Lake Health Group.
...and a little more!
Jasper has always enjoyed sport including football and cricket, having previously played locally for East Point FC and Golden Point CC before going to university. In his spare time Jasper enjoys watching live music, getting outdoors and is developing a passion for film photography.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Jasper Offers:

“I am inspired by forming meaningful relationships and helping people improve their health. I believe active listening is such an important part of this process” – Jasper

Lauren Powell

Physiotherapist
About Lauren
Lauren worked as an allied health assistant prior to completing her physiotherapy degree at ACU in Ballarat. She enjoys seeing a wide variety of injuries and clients across all age groups and spends a large percentage of her day treating people in their own home. She also performs work health assessments and screenings which includes musculoskeletal, hearing and drug testing. Lauren is passionate about building strong and meaningful relationships with her clients to facilitate their recovery. She believes in an individually tailored, patient centred care approach to physiotherapy.
...and a little more!
In her spare time, Lauren loves to have fun and socialise with her friends.  Lauren enjoys going to the gym or playing some social sports locally. She will take any opportunity to go hiking or camping for a weekend away!
Grace O’Dwyer

Grace O’Dwyer

Physiotherapist
About Grace
Grace completed her physiotherapy degree at ACU Ballarat in 2021. She is passionate about prevention and injury management, treating clients from a wide variety of ages including DVA and Brokerage clients. She has a particular interest in sporting injuries, being a top-level sprinter herself. Grace is a certified Pilates and GLAD instructor and can also deliver dry needling. She also performs Workforce Health Assessments and screening which includes musculoskeletal, hearing and drug testing.
...and a little more!
Grace is an avid runner and has competed in sprinting and athletics from a young age. Through her experience of training and competing she has had her own experience with injuries. This led to her passion for working closely with people to facilitate their recovery and assist them in returning to the things they love doing, particularly on the sporting field. When not training or competing at the track or gym, Grace enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing netball and spending time at the beach.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Grace Offers:

Emily Mewett

Physiotherapist
About Emily
Emily completed her physiotherapy degree at ACU Ballarat in 2022. Whilst studying, Emily took a gap year and worked in America as a camp counsellor for children with varying disabilities. She is no stranger to Lake Health Group, having been an integral part of the administration team for the last 4 years. Emily enjoys seeing a wide variety of injuries and clients from all walks of life. She works in the clinic at Howitt Street, performs home visits as well as servicing clients at the Skipton hospital. Emily also performs work health assessments and screenings which includes musculoskeletal, hearing and drug testing. She has previously been a sports trainer for the Ballarat Miners Basketball team and an observer for the La Trobe University research project. Emily is passionate about a patient-first approach, ensuring that clients feel understood, supported and valued in their rehabilitation.
...and a little more!
Emily enjoys spending time with family, friends and her dog Stanlee. She enjoys playing basketball socially, however, it is often quite competitive!

“Challenges – they encourage me to put my abilities to the test and allow myself to grow.” – Emily

Podiatry and Massage Team

Justin Allison

Podiatrist
About Justin
B.HlthSc/MPodPrac
Justin completed a Bachelor of Health Science and a Masters in Podiatric Practice at Latrobe University Bendigo in 2015.  Justin has since been working in both hospital and private settings, giving him exposure to a  wide range of Podiatry clients. Justin is passionate about continued education in order to provide the highest standard of care to all of his patients. Locally, Justin is involved with the Creswick Football Club where he is exposed to a variety of different sports injuries and rehabilitation techniques.
...and a little more!
Justin was diagnosed with mild Cerebral Palsy at a young age and this has given him a knowledge and understanding about how important rehabilitation and strength is.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Justin Offers:
“I am inspired by seeing people achieve what they thought they couldn’t” – Justin

Marianne Cashin

Podiatrist
About Marianne
B.HlthSci, M.PodPrac
Marianne studied at Latrobe University, Melbourne and graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Health Science and a Masters in Podiatric Practice. Initially, Marianne moved back to her hometown – Ballarat to work in private practice. After 3 years Marianne set off for a 5 month backpacking trip through South America, and Europe, before settling down in London where she worked for the NHS for 2 years. Initially she worked as a musculoskeletal podiatrist with The Royal Marsden, transferring to be the main podiatrist for the High Risk clinic (diabetes/wound care) with Central London Healthcare Trust. After 2 years working in London, Marianne set off to move back home to work in private practice again…after a quick 4 month backpacking trip through Eastern Europe, and Central America. Marianne has worked with a diverse patient base in both private practice, and a hospital setting and is skilled in all aspects of podiatric care, including assessment and management of sporting injuries, shockwave therapy, dry needling, orthotic prescription, and modification, diabetes care – both preventative, and wound care, and skin, and nail conditions. She loves nothing more than being in the clinic helping her patients and enjoys the range of clients and problems that she encounters in private practice. Professionally, Marianne’s interest lies in both sports injuries/biomechanics, and diabetic foot care. Marianne is very passionate about preventative care towards all patients, Prevention is better than cure!
...and a little more!
When not at the clinic you can find Marianne travelling, getting outdoors to walk or hike, or at the ‘G barracking for the Pies!
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
Marianne Offers:

“Practice what you preach! We cannot expect others to do things that we don’t consider to be important enough to do ourselves.” – Marianne

Nicole Rosa

Remedial Massage Therapist
About Nicole
B.HEALTH SCIENCE - NATUROPATHY / D.REMEDIAL MASSAGE
Nicole has completed a Degree in Health Science as well as a Diploma of remedial massage. Nicole has a particular interest in sports related injury & prevention, mechanical loading patterns leading to pain and discomfort & its correction, as well as temporomandibular dysfunction. Nicole currently works with both the Miners & Rush basketball teams.
...and a little more!
Away from work Nicole is heavily involved in training and coaching teams for the Wildcats Basketball Club which occupies her time both during the week and on weekends for competitions. But Nicole also enjoys squeezing in a bit of yoga and exploring some of the great open spaces Ballarat has to offer.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree
    • Wednesday – Saturday
Nicole Offers:

“I am inspired by clients who take charge of their health and enjoy the process” – Nicole

Administration Team

Nicole Sullivan

Practice Manager
About Nicole
Nicole joins Lake Health Group with a wealth of experience in mentoring, training and building teams. Having previously worked in various administrative roles with accounting firms, she has transitioned to managerial roles in the Health sector, spending the last 10 years at Lake Imaging honing her leadership skills. She believes in empowering staff to deliver the highest level of client service in the most efficient and professional manner. Priding herself on identifying and applying training and resources to assist staff, Nicole has a strong commitment to the team, the business objectives as well as the stakeholders and clients of Lake Health Group.
...and a little more!
Growing up in Ballarat, Nicole enjoys spending time with family and friends and sneaking in the odd bit of overseas travel. On weekends she likes to hit the trails and do some mountain biking or relax whilst attending a concert or spending time at a winery. Otherwise daughter Mia and her ballet schedule keep Nicole generally busy.
Hours
  • Howitt Street Clinic, Wendouree

Maureen Mason

Reception / Administration
About Maureen
Maureen is theoretically supposed to be retired to relax on the family farm and look after grandchildren but is still part of the Lake Health Group administration team on a casual basis whenever extra help and knowledge is needed. Having worked with the group for many years Maureen brings a strong work ethic and old-fashioned customer service to everyone she comes across. She does some administration duties from home as well as the occasional few hours in the clinic. So whilst she is not always visible on the front desk, you can be sure she is lending a helping hand to the team in any way she can.
...and a little more!
Whilst she doesn’t run anymore, Maureen keeps fit and active on the farm as well as chasing after livestock and the occasional grandchild. Being a hairdresser by trade, Maureen still does the odd cut or two for her regulars.
 

“The best thing about my job is meeting new people and interacting with them to achieve great outcomes.” – Maureen

Shontay Gribble

Shontay Gribble

Reception/Administration
About Shontay
Shontay joins the Lake Health Group administration team having always shown a keen interest in the medical and healthcare field. With over 6 years of experience in the customer service industry, Shontay has previously worked as a pharmacy assistant and as a health care worker. This face to face time with clients combined with her friendly and empathetic nature ensures she knows exactly what patient centred care means.
...and a little more!
Outside of work Shontay enjoys fishing, caravanning, hiking, and spending time with her partner and dog.

Rochelle Dirks

Reception/Administration
About Rochelle
Rochelle is part of the Lake Health Group administration team, having previously worked in the service industry including many years at Woolworths. These positions have honed her customer service skills as well as given her experience in systems and processes which are an asset to any business. Rochelle is also currently studying a veterinary assistant’s course.
...and a little more!
Outside of work Rochelle’s favourite place is the dog park where she can take her fur baby for runs and socialization visits. She also spends her downtime with friends as well as hitting the gym.
Aliesha Murray

Aliesha Murray

Reception/Administration
About Aliesha
Aliesha joins the administration team at Lake Health Group having recently relocated from her hometown of Port Augusta. She studied business administration at Federation College and has put these skills to good use in her prior roles in private business, hospitals, and healthcare settings. Aliesha brings her excellent customer service skills and attention to detail to ensure clients are well looked after at Lake Health Group.
...and a little more!
Outside of work Aliesha enjoys travelling and spending time with family as well as satisfying her sweet tooth with baking at home.
Candice Young

Candice Young

About Candice
Candice is part of the administration team at Lake Health Group and brings with her over 15 years of experience in the customer service and accounting sectors. Having worked for both small and large organisations, Candice demonstrates exceptional client relations and communications, attention to detail as well as first-rate time management skills to make all clients at Lake Health Group feel welcome and supported.
...and a little more!
Away from work Candice enjoys traveling and watching TV with her daughter and cavoodle. Having previously been involved in musical theatre she enjoys nothing more than a trip to Melbourne to view a live theatre show.

Lake Health Group

The Lake Health Group is located at 1046 Howitt Street, Ballarat.

We offer a multitude of services including Physiotherapy, Exercise Rehabilitation, Clinical Pilates, Remedial Massage and Podiatry.

We have a number of clinicians who have special interests to assist you with all your rehabilitation requirements as well as sporting injury recovery.

© 2023 Lake Health Group. Site by Kate Pierce.

Locations

LHG Clinic: 1046 Howitt St, Wendouree

Phone: 03 5335 3200

ABN: 81 603 414 473

LHG Clinic:

 – Physiotherapy

 – Podiatry

– Massage