Physiotherapy in Lismore

Senior Physiotherapist · Team Lead

Natalie joined Optimum in 2024 and leads the Ballina Clinic team. Originally from the UK and a background in the Armed Forces, Natalie has worked in the NHS and voluntary sector supporting Veterans. She has developed strong clinical interests in chronic pain management, orthopaedics and intensive care rehabilitation. Her military experience has shaped her leadership style, grounded in accountability, teamwork and resilience. This drives her commitment to fostering a supportive team culture that delivers exceptional, patient-centred care.

Physiotherapist

Vladimir is a physiotherapist based at Optimum's Ballina clinic, serving the Ballina, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, and Northern Rivers communities. Originally from Russia, he began his career in orthopaedic healthcare before relocating to Australia, joining Optimum in 2025.

Vladimir has experience supporting patients with musculoskeletal conditions, post-operative rehabilitation, and injury recovery, bringing a practical, patient-centred approach to his physiotherapy care. His areas of interest include orthopaedic rehabilitation, sports injury treatment, and exercise-based therapy to help people return to the activities they love.

Outside of work, Vladimir enjoys snowboarding, cycling, and listening to history podcasts.

Physiotherapist

Originally from Thailand, Mandy brings a warm, caring approach to helping people move and feel their best. She has broad experience treating musculoskeletal conditions and enjoys using hands-on physiotherapy techniques including dry needling, soft tissue release, and joint mobilisation, alongside tailored exercise programs to support recovery and rehabilitation.

Mandy's love of travelling, exploring nature, and discovering new cultures inspires her holistic, patient-centred approach to physiotherapy care at Optimum's Ballina clinic.

Physiotherapist

Vanessa is a physiotherapist from Chile, originally from a small island in Patagonia. Her background spans primary care, public health, chronic condition management, and community rehabilitation, giving her a well-rounded approach to physiotherapy care at Optimum's Ballina clinic.

An avid traveller, Vanessa's extensive global experiences have enriched her understanding of different cultures and strengthened her communication skills — qualities she brings to every patient interaction. Outside of work, she enjoys trekking, swimming, and gardening.

Physiotherapist

Anotida joined Optimum in 2026, bringing five years of physiotherapy experience from Mozambique and Zimbabwe across a wide range of clinical areas. She has a particular interest in occupational rehabilitation, helping patients with work-related injuries safely return to their roles, and supporting workplace safety through ergonomic assessments and injury prevention.

Anotida also has a special interest in paediatric physiotherapy, where she is passionate about helping children achieve their developmental and movement goals.

Physiotherapist

Arthur Ohakanu is an experienced musculoskeletal and community physiotherapist with over 13 years’ clinical practice. Trained in Nigeria, he built strong skills in assessment, rehabilitation, and patient-centred care before moving to Casino with his family in 2024. Arthur is passionate about helping people overcome pain, restore function, and achieve meaningful goals through education, exercise, and hands-on treatment.

Physiotherapist