Meet the Stepping Forward Team

Our Approach

At Stepping Forward, our physiotherapists use their knowledge of physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics and development, to assess and treat muscle and joint dysfunction, developmental difficulties and gross motor skills.
Our approach considers each individual child’s ability to integrate sensory input, their abilities in motor planning and their interests and motivation.
Our physiotherapists combines our professional skills with a play based approach to facilitate engagement at all ages.
Our physiotherapists actively promote a multidisciplinary approach, and collaborate closely with other therapists and medical professionals
Our physiotherapists are always looking for creative ways to help our young patients achieve meaningful progress.

Audrey (she/her) brings a lively and engaging approach, backed by over 20 years experience in paediatric physiotherapy within the hospital, private practice, school and the disability sectors. Since graduating from The University of Melbourne, she has been involved in clinical training and assessment of undergraduate physiotherapists. She has completed numerous post-graduate courses, and is committed to the being a lifelong learner.

At Stepping Forward Therapy Services, Audrey supports her team in the assessment and management of childhood conditions, from newborns to young adults. Her special interest in developmental paediatrics and movement disorders is complemented by her experience in sports and spinal physiotherapy, adding to her understanding of biomechanics and movement. Her approach includes manual therapy, assistive technology prescription and training, serial casting and dry needling - with a strong focus on meaningful outcomes.

She is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, the National Paediatric Group, Dry Needling and Acupuncture group and the National Disability Awareness Group. She has 3 children of her own, and loves being active. She appreciates that physiotherapy programs needs to be flexible to be effective; and they need to be fun in order to motivate change.

PRINCIPAL PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Audrey Lee

With an extensive 25 year+ career in paediatric physiotherapy across Australia and Great Britain, Melanie (she/her) brings a wealth of experience to her role. Her professional journey includes significant contributions in senior positions at the Royal Children’s Hospital and various educational and community settings.

Her expertise centers on developmental and neurological paediatrics, with a keen focus on providing specialized equipment for clients with complex needs. Melanie's approach to physiotherapy is holistic and patient-centered, emphasizing collaboration with families to achieve shared objectives.

Melanie leads the aquatic physiotherapy services at Stepping Forward.

Melanie is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the National Paediatric Group. Melanie has 2 young children of her own and understands the need for therapy programs to be fun, versatile and relevant.

SENIOR PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Melanie Gibbs

Charlotte (she/her) is a Monash University honours graduate, and actively pursues further education through paediatric development courses, seminars, and conferences, and maintains strong connections with the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Known for her cheerful and compassionate nature, Charlotte excels in building rapport with children, including those who are initially shy.

Charlotte is an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the National Paediatric Group. Beyond her professional life, she enjoys reading, practicing karate, and singing in a choir, showcasing her well-rounded personality and diverse interests.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Charlotte Nicholls

Adrienne (she/her) graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters in Physiotherapy. Her interest in paediatric physiotherapy first developed through her role as a disability support worker and has since grown into a passion throughout her tertiary studies and work experience. With over five years in the disability sector, Adrienne is adept in NDIS framework therapy, specialising in assessments, assistive technology, and capacity building. Adrienne also offers aquatic physiotherapy services.

A member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, Neurology and Paediatric special interest groups, Adrienne balances her professional life with diverse hobbies. Outside of the clinic you’ll find Adrienne keeping active in the boxing ring, teaching reformer Pilates or baking up a storm!

Adrienne Joe

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Kara (she/her) is a skilled paediatric physiotherapist with a bachelor in Behavioural Neuroscience and a Masters in Physiotherapy. Her extensive experience covers private practice, disability sector, special development schools, and sports and spinal physiotherapy. She excels in post-operative care, particularly in orthopaedics, and in guiding children through injuries for a safe return to sport.

She is adept in wheelchair and assistive technology prescription, as well as navigating the NDIS framework. Additionally, Kara contributes significantly to sports physiotherapy, being the head physiotherapist for the Australian Pearls and Victoria Men's and Women’s Ivor Burge basketball teams.

Her personal involvement in state-level sports and her infectious enthusiasm and 'can-do' attitude make her sessions engaging and effective for children of all ages.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Kara Nolan

Dora (she/her) is a well-rounded physiotherapist with 9 years of experience in paediatric physiotherapy and 10 years in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. She holds a Masters in Physiotherapy and a Certificate in Paediatrics from the University of Melbourne. Dora has made significant contributions to Swinburne University of Technology's curriculum design in Early Life and Specific Populations, where she also imparts her knowledge as a sessional lecturer.

Her expertise spans working with babies, toddlers, and adolescents, including those with disabilities and complex needs, in both musculoskeletal and neurodevelopment fields. Dora is driven by the challenges and rewards of working with children and their families, aiming to create lasting and meaningful impacts in her patients' lives.

As a mother of two young boys and a speaker of Hungarian and French, Dora's personal experiences enrich her empathetic, calm, and energetic approach to physiotherapy. In her leisure time, she enjoys family activities, yoga, and hiking, reflecting her commitment to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Dora Konya-Bonner

Nicole (she/her), a skilled paediatric physiotherapist, specialises in treating babies to adolescents and offers Aquatic Physiotherapy and group programs for gross motor skill development. A Doctor of Physiotherapy graduate from The University of Melbourne, she was honored with 'The Physiotherapy Research Foundation Award' and 'The Leadership and Management Award' for her outstanding performance.

Her expertise particularly shines in early childhood development, drawing on her experience as an Allied Health Assistant. Nicole emphasizes the significance of building a strong therapist-child relationship, focusing on enhancing engagement and enjoyment in therapy sessions. Further enriching her practice, Nicole has completed the APPI Clinical Pilates Level 1 Matwork course.

Outside work, she enjoys traveling, walking, playing piano, and spending time with family and friends. Nicole is also a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, reflecting her commitment to her profession.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Nicole Dimopoulos

Georgia (she/her), a Masters in Physiotherapy graduating from LaTrobe University, brings extensive experience to Stepping Forward Therapy Services from various paediatric settings, including acute and community environments, special development schools, rehabilitation services, and private practice. She is committed to continuous learning, having completed coursework in aquatic physiotherapy, muscular dystrophies, orthotic prescription, spinal cord injury, scoliosis, hypotonia, cerebral palsy, and dysplasia of the hip. Additionally, Georgia holds the APPI Clinical Pilates Level 1 Matwork Certification and is pursuing her Masters of Paediatric Physiotherapy Practice.

Her passion lies in fostering patient-clinician relationships and delivering care to enhance health and wellbeing. Georgia finds immense satisfaction in assisting patients to achieve their personal goals.

In her personal life, Georgia is a dog lover, with a playful pet named Indi. She is also a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, showcasing her dedication to her profession.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Georgia Cooke

Conrad (he/him), a LaTrobe University graduate, holds a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Master of Physiotherapy Practice. His journey in physiotherapy began as a community therapist, working with both children and adults.

His passion for working with children was sparked during his university studies and placements. Conrad is a firm believer in evidence-based interventions, ensuring that both the child's and the family's goals are met.

Outside the clinic, Conrad leads an active and diverse life. He enjoys playing social futsal, video games and exploring Melbourne’s rich culinary scene. His cultural versatility extends to languages, being semi-fluent in Cantonese and understanding Mandarin. An active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Paediatrics Special Interest Group.

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Conrad So

Justin (He/Him) brings a wealth of knowledge with a background in both clinical practice and research. Justin holds a Doctor of Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne, where he also completed his Bachelor of Biomedicine with Honors in the field of Oncological Molecular Biochemistry.

With nine years of dedicated service in various healthcare settings, Justin excels in patient-centered care.

At Stepping Forward Therapy Services, Justin employs his adaptive problem-solving skills to devise personalised treatment plans. His approach is comprehensive, encompassing innovative solutions to ensure each child receives the best possible care.

Outside of the clinic, you will find Justin out on the Baseball diamond, at his parent’s farm or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. Justin is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and also a member of both the national Paediatric and Neurological special interest groups.

Justin Gourlay

PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Administration Team

At Stepping Forward Therapy Services, we also have a great administrative team! Megan Smith is our Practice Manager and manages our funded programs. This includes NDIS funded physiotherapy, and facilitates the setting up of Service Agreements, and assisting families in accessing their plan.

Ella, Jacinta, Ashling and Elizabeth are the friendly faces at reception, who can help organise your appointments and make your visit to us easy and enjoyable.

We also have Jack and Jill, our training dolls and Facebook page contributors – in charge of shenanigans.

Megan Smith

PRACTICE MANAGER

Megan (she/her) is the practice manager at Stepping Forward Therapy Services, known for her exceptional organisational and management skills. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for efficiency, Megan ensures the smooth operation of the practice, providing an indispensable backbone to the daily functioning of the clinic.

Her role extends beyond her administrative duties; Megan is instrumental in creating a positive and productive work environment. Megan's dedication to the practice is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence, making her an invaluable asset to Stepping Forward Therapy Services.

Ella

ADMINISTRATOR

Jacinta

ADMINISTRATOR

Ashling

ADMINISTRATOR

We look forward to servicing your child’s paediatric physiotherapy needs.

Our Approach