Tell us about your career journey with ACH Group so far.
Prior to joining ACH Group, I provided locum physiotherapy services across some of ACH Group’s homes before applying for a permanent position. I have worked as part of the ACH Group Allied Health Team for nearly four years now. Initially, I worked full-time in the residential setting across ViTA, Perry Park, Kapara, and Yankalilla Residential Care Homes before transitioning to full-time community work at Christie Downs and Glenelg Health Studio 50+. Later, I split my time between residential and community settings, working out of ViTA and Christie Downs. Currently, I am covering as the Residential Health Services Team Leader across our north/eastern homes before returning to my split role.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?
The best part about my role is witnessing people progress towards their goals from their initial assessments to days, weeks, or months later. The confidence and joy they show upon reaching their goals is truly rewarding.

What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a Physiotherapist?
Explore all aspects of physiotherapy! While many are familiar with the traditional private practice model, there are numerous other work pathways. For those studying physiotherapy, I suggest reaching out to organisations like ACH Group to see what they offer. For instance, several of our personal trainers have pursued degrees in physiotherapy, exercise physiology, or occupational therapy and have subsequently worked for ACH Group. It offers valuable job experience and serves as a great stepping stone for career progression.

How does your role differ, given that you work across both community and residential health teams?
My role varies significantly due to my work in both community and residential settings. On my community days, I primarily work at our Christie Downs Health Studio 50+, where customers often come in with specific conditions or equipment requests, mainly via their Home Care Package or the Commonwealth Home Support Programme.

Together, we establish goals and treatment plans. Additionally, I lead a few group classes, including a balance class and a core strength class. In residential care, we similarly establish goals and treatment plans, often for residents with higher care needs. Physiotherapists are also responsible for creating and regularly reviewing mobility care plans that inform care staff about the appropriate level of assistance required for a resident.

Considering a holistic approach for customers, how do you collaborate with other team members when looking at a customer’s health journey?
Physiotherapists liaise with care managers regarding equipment recommendations, service requests (such as the number of physiotherapy visits or exercise classes), transportation arrangements, and monitoring customer well-being, such as fall prevention. Collaboration with allied health professionals ensures that care is comprehensive and not isolated.

What guidance would you give to someone who is at the beginning of their health journey?
For new customers looking to make a change, I recommend speaking to current customers about how our services have profoundly impacted their lives.

Can you describe yourself in three words and emojis?
Approachable, outdoorsy, encouraging 🏞️🏃‍♂️🙌

What activities do you enjoy during your free time?
I love being outdoors and you’ll often find me going for a run most days, either before or after work. When time allows, I enjoy multi-day hikes in Australia’s beautiful national parks. I’m also a passionate Port Adelaide football fan, which always sparks lively banter with our customers.

What are your future plans?
I would love to travel overseas more and experience the snow. Japan is next on my bucket list.

If your job had a theme song, what would it be?
I have no clue – perhaps something by ABBA, as it feels like 90% of the requests during my exercise classes are for their songs!