well established and here for you

Meet The Team

service with a smile

Meet Our People

At Physio First our sessions always place patient needs and expectations at the centre of every consultation. We work with you to establish your health goals and offer a plan to deliver the best results possible. 

Peter Tawfeek

Director

Peter has a special interest in injury prevention, management and rehabilitation of work-related and accident injuries. Working with diverse client groups at different workplaces including manufacturing and logistics and being exposed across numerous industries, Peter possesses practical knowledge and skills of ergonomic, risk analysis, hazard identification and elimination, auditing and control implementation. 

Peter continues to develop the company’s corporate strategy, spending most time now on our Workplace Health division, whilst overseeing the clinical operations with the help of his strong senior team.

PhysioFirst team work with Companies, Factories, Hospitals and Aged Care Facilities to reduce Workers’ Compensation Claims and increase in Health and Safety across organisations.  

Quoc Ho

Head Physiotherapist

Quoc brings a wealth of Occupational Health Experience to Physiofirst. He graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne. He is also the Head Physiotherapist for our Workplace Health Programs and is based on-site at StarTrack for part of his week. Before joining the Physiofirst Team Quoc has travelled to the UK to gain further Physio experience working within the NHS. He continued to develop his skills working with large corporate clients such as Boeing, Coles, BHP and Woolworths in various onsite roles.

Quoc is a great educator and empowers his clients with the best knowledge to help them manage their own condition. He is a big believer in exercise and functional movement and uses his expertise to get people back doing what they love to do. He also runs our Manual Handling Refresher Training for our corporate clients helping prevent common workplace injuries.

 

Melissa Radcliffe

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Melissa graduated from the University of Melbourne with Honors in 2004. After graduating Melissa has had vast experience across many patient groups at both acute hospitals and within private practice. Keeping in line with the physiofirst principles, she utilises a combination of hands on therapy, exercise prescription & education to help provide the best possible outcomes. Workstation Assessments, Onsite Physiotherapy, Manual Handling Training

She has also consulted with many large companies to assist with the reduction of work place injuries and the provision of exercise programs. Melissa is a current member of the APA and also holds a degree in Human Biology, further adding to her expertise in the workplace. She is an active mum who enjoys Pilates and keeping fit.

Nash Egan

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Nash has completed a Bachelor of Health Sciences and and Masters in Physiotherapy Practice at Latrobe University in Bundoora graduating in 2014. After having clinical experience at the Northern, Royal Childrens and Royal Melbourne hospitals Nash followed his interest in private practice physiotherapy. Nash is a keen sportsman having played Senior Football at Rupertswood since the age of 17. Nash continues to thrive on the challenges that private practice presents and takes pleasure with assisting all clients on reaching their desired outcomes. He has also enjoyed taking on many Pre Employment Functional assessments conducted by our clinic each and every day.

 

Rachel Crosbee

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Rachel has been a Physiotherapist for over 14 years having worked and travelled throughout the UK. Being a Slalom Canoe Champion and a dual Olympian, Rachel brings a true elite sporting perspective to her treatment of clients. She represented the UK in slalom canoeing at both the 1992 and 1996 Olympic games. Rachel was a member of the Silver medal winning team at the ICF Canoe World Championships in 1995. She actively coaches and mentors many young paddlers now, including her own children, and gets out on the water whenever time permits.

Rachel has a strong interest in treating posture related conditions of the thoracic spine given her own experiences from her chosen sport. She also enjoys treating lower back and hip pain, helping to get people moving and active again.

Arjan Nalliah

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

With a strength and conditioning background, an Exercise Science and Physiotherapy degree, Arjan brings a specific targeted skilled set of hands-on treatment and exercise rehabilitation.

Arjan previously worked for the Sri Lankan Cricket team as a Strength and Conditioning Coach (High Performance), progressing to a multi-dimensional role including Physiotherapy and Anti-Doping Management. He also has worked in the Australian National Soccer League and Premier League Soccer.

Arjan completed his Doctor of Physiotherapy (Masters Extended) in 2010 at Bond University, holds a Graduate Certificate in Sports Physiotherapy in 2014 and a Master of Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning). His interest in research has led to publications and conference presentations.

Since returning to Australia for professional development, Arjan has worked in the Aviation Industry, Private Practice and Sport. He has an interest in work/sport programs, back pain, neck and shoulder pain, and sports rehabilitation. Arjan has excellent communication skills and finds his job truly satisfying when he can help his clients.

Laurie McCormack

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Laurie graduated from Lincoln School of Health Sciences in 1988, and completed his Master’s degree in Musculo-skeletal Physiotherapy at Melbourne University in 2000. Laurie has had over 20 years’ experience as a clinical physiotherapist in assessing, diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal and sports injuries, and since 1991 has also worked extensively with the treatment of workplace injuries. Laurie has been involved as a project physiotherapist with arthritis research studies at Melbourne University. Laurie is also a member of the TAC Clinical

Panel and has been instrumental in shaping the treatment and expected outcomes of those injured on Victorian roads.

Away from the clinic, Laurie enjoys spending time with family and friends, cycling, bushwalking, and reading.

 

Travis Monk

Senior Associate Physiotherapist

Travis is a recent graduate of the Doctor of Physiotherapy degree at The University of Melbourne. Throughout this extended degree Travis gained a particular interest in men’s health through a community based health promotion project, where he and his colleagues spent two semesters working alongside a men’s fitness group in Glen Waverly. This project provided Travis with an appreciation for the preventative role that physiotherapists can play in promoting positive health and well-being behaviours.

Additionally, Travis is also passionate about improving individual and team sports performance. Having completed a Bachelor in Exercise & Sport Science at Deakin University he is confident in his ability to practically apply the theoretical knowledge gained from both degrees to deliver optimal rehabilitation programs. Travis is currently the Head of Performance at a Premier Division club in the Essendon District Football League, where he has worked for the previous three seasons.

Travis is an enthusiastic physiotherapist who places a large emphasis on keeping up to date and using evidence based practice, particularly utilising an exercise based approach for the management of injuries. Outside of physiotherapy he likes to keep physically active with his own training, reading extensively, listening to music, going to gigs and learning to play the drums.

Course appellations:

  • BEx&SportSc
  • DPT

Momina (Mona)

Physiotherapist

Momina (Mona) is a highly skilled and dedicated physiotherapist. Renowned for her meticulous patient care, she specializes in pain management, manual mobilization techniques, and tailored rehabilitation programs. Her clinical expertise covers a diverse range of conditions, including post-CVA, Parkinson’s disease, and orthopedic surgeries such as TKR and THR. During her career in physiotherapy, she has mastered the latest techniques, including dry needling and evidence-based practices.

Known for her exceptional communication skills, Mona can speak English, Urdu, and Punjabi, enhancing her ability to connect with diverse patients. Her commitment to patient education and hands-on approach has led to significant improvement in patients’ physical functionality and quality of life. Her academic contributions are highlighted by her research on the effects of progressive muscle relaxation on shoulder and neck pain, positioning her as a knowledgeable practitioner who is continuously advancing her field.

Outside of her clinical responsibilities, Mona cherishes the simple joys in life, such as engaging in yoga and indulging in her favorite books. She is an avid traveler, seizing every opportunity to explore new destinations and immerse herself in diverse cultures. This passion for discovery not only enriches her personal life but also broadens her perspective, fueling her professional creativity and empathy in physiotherapy. Her active participation in workshops and seminars, alongside her volunteer work in breast cancer awareness, reflects her commitment to both her professional development and community engagement.

Simran Sandhu

Physiotherapist

Simran is a passionate physiotherapist with an enthusiasm for promoting health, well-being, and optimal states of living. Her background in musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and ICU care has honed her specialization in assisting individuals to regain their pain-free and optimal physical function through specialized rehabilitation programs.

Simran pursued her Bachelors of Physiotherapy overseas and initiated her career as the head physiotherapist in a neurology hospital. With a keen interest in neuromuscular physiology, Simran finds fulfillment in aiding patients with neuromuscular deficits and impairments. Subsequently, she broadened her expertise to include musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, ICU, Pre and Post-Operative rehab, supporting individuals to achieve their best functionality. As a physiotherapist, it is crucial for Simran to understand the unique requirements of each client to promote healing and recovery. She believes that every client is different, and it is her area of expertise to formulate well-designed, personalized rehab programs for patients with unique needs.


As a physiotherapist it’s very important for me to understand the unique requirements of each client to promote healing and recovery as I believe that every client is different and that’s my area of expertise to formulate a well designed personalized rehab program for my patients with unique needs. 

Saurabh

Physiotherapist

Saurabh is a highly accomplished physiotherapist, distinguished by his extensive expertise and dedication towards patient care. He completed his postgraduation in Advanced Clinical Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy from University of South Australia. Furthermore, he has pursued additional certificates in Dry Needling and Kinesiology Taping to further boost his skills. He has experience in treating many complex musculoskeletal and sports injuries, along with neuromuscular issues and post-surgery rehabilitation

Saurabh’s treatment approach embraces hands-on manual therapy in combination with individualized evidence-based treatment plan for his patients based on collaborative approach. His experience and expertise lie in pain management, manual therapy, and exercise prescription, which has resulted in notable enhancement in patient’s overall quality of life.

Beyond his professional endeavors, he loves playing sports such as badminton and cricket. He values quality time spent with his friends and family, cherishing the moments of connection. His love for travel and exploring different cultures has been instrumental in expanding his perspectives and enriching new experiences.

Sammy Fahd

Head Osteopath

Sammy completed a Bachelor of Clinical Science and a Masters in Osteopathy. Throughout his studies, he attended an internship at the University College Of Osteopathy in London. 

His passion for treating continues to be in educating patients in gaining a better understanding of their health and guiding them along their journey to better wellbeing. Sammy’s main interest lies in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions particularly sports injuries and managing patients with exercise rehabilitation as well as hands on treatment. 

Sammy works alongside the NDIS initiative and has applied Osteopathic techniques and principals to a wide range of conditions including cerebral palsy, motor vehicle accident injuries and general musculoskeletal presentations. He has implemented rehab programs for those in residential establishment as well as private homes. 

Outside of work Sammy enjoys the simple things in life, his morning coffee, and daily walks. Sammy loves to travel whenever he gets a chance and explore new places to gain a perspective on the world. He is constantly looking for inspiration and enjoys experiencing different cultures. 

Fauntine Lariba

Osteopath

Fauntine enjoys the challenge of treating a variety of patients and conditions, helping them move away from pain and towards function.
 
She has been working in North Carlton and South Gippsland as an Osteopath for the past 5 years. Across the years Fauntine has fine tuned her philosophy towards treatment: do no harm, identify the root cause of pain and dysfunction, treat the person as a whole and establish productive habits.
 
She strives for quality over quantity because this approach delivers the best results.She believes that sound movement patterns are primary for creating a safe and strong foundation, once this is established anything is possible.
 
Outside of her work, Fauntine performs and competes as a break dancer. She has a lot of fun spinning around and balancing in unusual positions whilst expressing herself with the music, she enjoys the riddle of blending strength with creativity.
 
 

Kerilos Philips

Osteopath

Kerilos studied at Vic univerity where he obtained his osteopathic qualification. Since then, he worked in different sitting including private practice, Onsite and in the community.

Kerilos enjoys helping and empowering all people, his knowledge and experience allow him to help with a wide range of conditions. Ranging from sporting injuries, work injuries, and other chronic conditions. He also has experience asessing and treating post and pre-op patients.

Kerilos prides himself on tailoring each treatment to the individual as well as focusing on educating and empowering the patient to understand their condition and be involved in their own treatment.

Aisha Abdi

Osteopath

Aisha has completed a Bachelor of Health Science/ Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy) at RMIT. She has completed an internship at the RMIT sports academy. Treating athletes with sports injuries and managing their musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, she has a certificate in myofascial dry needling and cupping.

Aisha has always been passionate about the human body and loves to assist people with their daily activities and make them more enjoyable. As an osteopath, she wants to help people improve all aspects of their health and well-being. Aisha uses a holistic approach by combining hands-on treatment, tailored exercises and education to provide the best outcome for her patients.

In her free time, Aisha enjoys outdoor activities and catching up with family and friends.

Maysa Rabah

Osteopath

Maysa is a dedicated and passionate Osteopath who completed a Bachelor of Health Science/ Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy) at RMIT University. She has also completed further studies in massage and cupping therapy as well as dry needling.Maysa has gained significant experience in managing acute and chronic conditions through working as a Sports Trainer and participating in Chronic Pain and Rehabilitation clinical placements. Maysa also has extensive experience working as a Massage and Cupping therapist whilst completing her studies. She expresses a special interest in treating musculoskeletal conditions including headaches, migraines, sports injuries, women’s pelvic health and chronic pain management.Maysa treats with a holistic, patient-centred approach to healthcare. She accentuates the importance of having a safe environment for all patients and encourages health-promoting behaviours to help patients achieve their optimal health. She strives to deliver personalised care that is tailored to the individual’s unique needs, ensuring that her patients feel empowered, educated and in control of their health journey.Maysa utilises a variety of treatment modalities including osteopathic techniques, cupping, dry needling and exercise prescription to not only treat the symptoms but also treat the cause of pain.Outside of work, you will find Maysa planning her next adventure, spending time with family and friends or trying a new cuisine.

Issrat Taleb

Osteopath

Issrat Taleb has completed a Bachelor of health science and a Bachelor of applied science (Osteopathy) at RMIT university. She believes in a holistic approach to managing and treating the root cause of the problem, providing osteopathic treatments with exercise. She also values patient education, empowering individuals to understand and manage their pain.She also has further developed her skills as an osteopath, having completed qualifications in Level 1 Myofascial Needling and cupping through Manual Medicine. She also holds a Level 1 Sports Training certification, through Sports Medicine Australia.She has a particular interest in shoulder pain, back pain, headaches, and rehabilitation. The most rewarding aspect of her career as an osteopath is helping patients decrease their pain and empowering them, really making a difference in someone’s life. Outside of the treatment room, you’ll find her going to the gym, trying new cafes, and spending time with friends and family.

Timothy Hender

Osteopath

Tim completed a Bachelor of Clinical Science and a Masters of Osteopathy at Victoria University. Throughout his time working as an Osteopath Tim has worked in clinics around Melbourne and went to Coffs Harbour working under an osteopath with 40 + years’ experience, he found this was a great learning and developing opportunity. Tim has also worked at a football club as a sports trainer which he managed and treated a variety of acute sporting injuries.

 

Tim is very passionate about helping people achieve their goals and improving their overall health, by not only treating the symptoms but the cause of their pain with a combination of osteopathic techniques, advice, education and exercises. He believes by giving patients exercises and advise for self-management this can empower them for overall health and wellbeing. Each treatment is tailored to the patient and their specific needs which means Tim can treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, sporting injuries, postural issues and more.

 

Outside of work Tim is an avid Essendon fan in the AFL, plays cricket both outdoor and indoor and enjoys spending time with friends and family.

Joanna Chen

Physiotherapist

Joanna graduated from the University of Sydney with a Masters of Physiotherapy in 2021 following an undergraduate degree in Sports Rehabilitation. Joanna has an interest in treating patients with a wide variety of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Other than having clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient orthopedics, Joanna has worked with Sydney North Shore Bombers Australian Football Club and Willoughby Wildcats JAFL for on-field sports injuries prevention and management, conducted hydrotherapy sessions, and has experience in instructing both reformer and mat clinical Pilates/group classes in a private practice setting. 

She is a strong believer in combining exercise and manual therapy in the treatment of her patients to not only return them as quickly as possible to their normal life but also in injury prevention. Joanna is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy and will always go above and beyond in supporting her patients to achieve their physical goals.

We only do what works for You. Get in touch today.