Physiotherapists
Richard Deutsch
I knew from when I was a Physiotherapy student that I wanted to work in neurology. I loved the idea that if you can influence the brain, you can influence anything. I try to incorporate this theory into practice using my understanding of anatomy and physiology of the brain to develop unique treatment strategies to achieve client’s goals.
I have now worked as a physio for over 15 years in both public and private sectors in Australia and the United Kingdom. I have worked in multiple settings including an acute trauma ward, Stroke units, movement disorder clients and rehabilitation in hospital and the community. In the private sector I have worked closely with traumatic injuries, progressive and congenital conditions which gives me a broad skill set to deal with almost any issue that arises.
I love barbecue and posh coffee as well as being by the beach or bush walking with my family who are the centre of my world. Other things I enjoy doing in my free time are participating in art classes and catching up with friends.
Jennifer Lloyd
I have a vast range of experience within my physiotherapy career, with a major focus on community neurological rehabilitation. This is where I found my passion for Physiotherapy, as I believe there is no better feeling then helping someone achieve their goals; especially life-changing goals like independently getting out of a chair, learning to walk again or go surfing.
I enjoy treating all ages from children up to the elderly, and helping with any condition from brain injuries, amputations, spinal cord injuries, stroke, autism, and everything in-between,
Outside of work, you will find me with my family; my husband, two little sons and two sausage dogs. I love going for a walk at the beach, swimming in the pool or creating something messy with the boys.
Jarrod Palmer-Brown
I grew up in the Blue Mountains in NSW with a huge passion for numerous sports, including football, rugby union and rugby league. After completing a previous degree and travelling overseas, I moved out to the country town of Orange in NSW to complete my physiotherapy degree at Charles Sturt University.
Since completing my physiotherapy degree, I have had experience working in musculoskeletal settings and with neurological patients within the hospital system.
In 2024, I decided to move to the Sunny Coast to chase the QLD lifestyle and that QLD weather of which I enjoy thoroughly.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing football, hiking, weight training, travelling and spending time with family and friends in the beautiful Sunny Coast weather.
I am keen to help you achieve your goals and ambitions wherever it suits you, whether it is in your home, in a gym, in the pool or the great outdoors.
Mel Bennett
After my final student placement in Auckland’s spinal unit, in 2016, I developed a passion for neuro physiotherapy. I have spent my career working in private practices and in the community, treating both musculoskeletal and neurological clients of all ages and stages. Most of my neurological experience is with spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury rehabilitation. I was also involved with premier level club rugby for 5 years and in that time, I managed a lot of acute concussion and post-concussion syndrome.
My passion as a physiotherapist comes from helping my clients achieve their goals and seeing improvements in their quality of life. I strive to make rehabilitation an enjoyable experience for all my clients, keeping it interesting with regular changes of activities and environments to meet my clients’ interests and needs.
I have recently moved to the beautiful Sunshine Coast from New Zealand. I am an outdoors person and love all sports. Outside of work, I am a very keen surfer, a very average golfer and am always looking for the next spot to go camping and hiking.
Cassie Butler
I am originally from the UK and I completed my Physiotherapy Degree at Cardiff University in 2020. Over the past four years, I’ve gained valuable experience across multiple settings, including hyper-acute neurosurgery, acute and community stroke rehabilitation.
I have also worked as Parkinson’s Disease Champion, advocating for clients and promoting their quality of life. I am dedicated to make positive and meaningful changes in clients lives through my expertise in neurological physiotherapy.
Having recently relocated to the Sunshine Coast in Australia, I have started to immerse myself in the Sunny Coast culture. I love Crossfit, early morning runs and spending too much time at the beach!
Jessica Hetherington
My professional career includes extensive 10 years clinical experience as a neurological physiotherapist. I am very passionate about neurological physiotherapy, and my overall goal is to make a positive difference to somebody’s life each day.I also have had extensive experience in vestibular clinics in the UK, and clinical skills in pediatric neurological populations.
I describe myself as a therapist who has developed interventions with the base focus on hands-on practice. I also see myself as a very good listener, communicator and somebody who loves a laugh. I have recently completed by dynamic movement intervention course which I hope to further develop my therapy skills. Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is a therapeutic technique used to treat children with motor delay by improving automatic postural responses and promoting progress towards developmental milestones.
Over the last year I have been fortunate to assist with community events including the specialised triathlon events and the island charity swim. In my spare time I love to go for a run along the beach, have a dance around the house or spend time with my friends and family.
Clare Baker
I qualified as a Physiotherapist in the UK 10 years ago. Since then I have gained diverse experience across a wide range of settings, including Acute, Community and the Intensive Care, treating clients with various conditions.
Specializing in respiratory physiotherapy for several years, I had the privilege of supporting patients and their families through some of their most difficult moments of their lives. My focus is to understanding what matters most to each individual to help them achieve their personal goals.
Having now transitioned to the field of neuro-rehabilitation with CNRS I am looking forward to developing my skills further in the neuro-respiratory space seeing clients with muscular dystrophies and MND as these are some of my interests areas. I am also looking forward to treating clients in their homes, learning about their lives, and helping them work toward their long-term goals.
Since moving to Australia from the UK a couple of years ago, I have been making the most of the amazing weather, spending as much time as possible at the beach and in the ocean. I love to get up early to see the sunrise most days.
Jessica Allwood
I am originally from Cairns, where I spent most of my time outdoors adventuring and playing hockey since the age of 6. After deciding to follow my interest in the human body, I moved to Townsville to study for a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at James Cook University.
While in Townsville I immersed myself in new adventures, sports and nature. I have furthered my professional development working as a Disability Support Worker and a Physiotherapy Assistant in the community whilst studying. These roles have enabled me to understand the importance of promoting independence, setting meaningful goals and being culturally inclusive.
Exposure to neurological conditions through clinical placements and workplace experience has guided me to love neurorehabilitation, particularly in the community. I love that I can positively influence an individual not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Being a part of an individual’s journey to achieve their goals is extremely rewarding.
After graduating at the end of 2023, I decided to move to the Sunshine Coast. This journey will bring me exciting new experiences and the opportunity to further my passion for neurorehabilitation and the human body. I hope to learn to surf, play hockey and find delicious coffee at my new home.
Occupational Therapists
Lesley Berry
I discovered Occupational Therapy in my early 20’s. I loved its approach to health and wellbeing with its mixture of science, creativity, and compassion. I love its collaborative and client-centred approach to best support and empower others to engage in everyday life and meaningful occupations. It’s like using someone’s hobbies as a means of therapy to achieve their goals and maximise their independence and quality of life.
I have been a qualified and registered Occupational Therapist since 2015. I graduated from Coventry University, UK and then migrated to Queensland, Australia in 2020. I have had various experience in acute hospitals, hospital and community rehabilitation, neuro-psychiatric hospitals, supporting community integration, residential aged care and the national disability insurance scheme (NDIS).
A little about me, in my spare time I love to spend time with friends, meeting new people, seeing live music, cooking and eating out and exploring nature. I also like crafts, cycling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, hikes and I love travelling.
Meagan Dunstan
With a strong passion for helping others, I was naturally drawn to the field of occupational therapy. I chose to pursue a career in this profession after observing the impact OTs have in enabling individuals to engage in meaningful activities, using everyday tasks and hobbies to achieve their personal goals.
I graduated with a degree in Occupational Therapy from James Cook University in Townsville and began my career working in private practice, focusing on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and aged care. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience working with individuals living with dementia, brain injuries, and multiple sclerosis. I am passionate about collaborating with clients, their families, and support networks to achieve positive outcomes.
Looking ahead, I am eager to expand my expertise further in peadiatric care and other neurological conditions, furthering my commitment to delivering holistic, client-centered therapy.
I relocated to the Sunshine Coast in 2020, where we enjoy exploring the region. Outside of work, I find joy in baking and playing hockey.
Clayton Willing
Throughout my lifespan, I found that I was always very eager to help people and have enjoyed being a creative problem solver. I moved out of home in Mackay, and decided to make the move to Townsville where I studied and obtained a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). My first role as an occupational therapist was primarily in paediatrics where I was working closely with families and individuals with a range of diagnosis, from neurodiverse clients, people living with limb differences, global developmental delays and more. I have a strong passion for sensory processing and enjoy educating clients and families on how sensory processing can impact individuals and be utilised for calming the nervous system or increasing attention and concentration.
I have decided to step into the world of neurorehabilitation due to my drive to be a better, more skilled clinician and to gain a better understanding of the brain, and the anatomy and physiology of the human body and how neurological conditions can impact on individuals. I enjoy being able to assist in building people’s confidence to be able to do what they want, restoring function and supporting them in getting, working towards and achieving personalised goals.
A little about me: in my spare time I love to be with family and friends, playing games (board, card and video), exploring nature on bushwalks, camping or going to the beach. I enjoy playing sports, particularly beach volleyball, re-bound netball and football, though haven’t been playing anything consistently since relocating to the Sunshine Coast.
Sarah Barr
I believe everyone has the right to full participation in a meaningful life and strive to support and empower others to achieve their valued goals. My experience ranges from people of all ages with a variety of needs to deliver therapeutic interventions that are goal-oriented, purposeful, and stimulating. I am passionate about working with people living with neurological disorders including Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Stroke, Motor Neurone Disease, and Acquired Brain Injury.
I am a qualified Pilates and yoga facilitator and enjoy integrating these skills into my work as an occupational therapist. Working collaboratively with clients and their support networks is integral to my role as I value and acknowledge their contributions as a key factor to their therapeutic journey.
I grew up in the Clare Valley (South Australia) and completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at the University of South Australia. I made the move to the Sunshine Coast in July 2022. I love the beaches and lifestyle and am currently learning how to surf!
Exercise Physiologists
Lauren Turner
My passion for working within Allied Health started with a love of dance and expressive human movement. It was this energy and dedication that led me to pursue a career as an Exercise Physiologist.
Since graduating in 2016, I have strived to make positive impacts on the quality of life of those affected by neurological conditions and disabilities, and with the same enthusiasm focused my career on developing the skills and knowledge of a Neurological Exercise Physiologist. Over this time, I have gained extensive experience with neurological rehabilitation practices and clinical skills in the management of movement disorders such as Multiple sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s Disease and Acquired Brain Injuries.
As a therapist, I view collaboration with other allied health professionals as essential to the provision of client centred care and the optimisation of both clinical and community based objectives. I firmly believe in supporting and motivating those wishing to achieve personal goals of community participation and enjoy investing my time promoting and assisting community engagement. This has seen my involvement in community events such as the Island Charity Swim and has delivered a sense of satisfaction that continues to bring joy to my career and what I do.
In my spare time I like spending time with my friends, exploring new places and taking time for myself, attending Pilates and Yoga classes.
Nicole Cwiertia
Growing up I always knew I wanted to work in a helping profession. Exercise physiology was the degree and field I fell into. I am now seven years into practicing as an EP and the profession is perfect for me.
I am extremely passionate about providing an exceptional service to help others achieve their goals and have found exercise to be a useful tool for empowering individuals on their recovery journey. My most recent role exposed me to primarily chronic pain populations, which developed my passion for understanding the biopsychosocial impact of illness and how these factors can and do impact recovery. I am excited to channel this understanding into the neurology realm and work with the CNRS team.
I studied locally on the Sunshine Coast, but my roots are in Melbourne. After travelling around country towns in NSW for my first two roles I decided to resettle and build a life on the Coast.
Damien Kerley
Damien is a Sunshine Coast local. He has travelled extensively throughout Australia and abroad wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. He loves the beach, which is where he spends a great deal of time either surfing or running with his dog Rolly.
Damien graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast with a degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology where he received a medal for academic excellence. Since graduating he has worked in a private clinic helping a diverse client load reach their goals and will work alongside you to help you realise your goals. He has a passion for being across the latest research and training methods to better assist individuals with a range neurological conditions to maximise their function through active movement.
He can assist at home, in a gym, in the pool or in the great outdoors depending on what works for your need and schedule, and he looks forward to meeting you soon.
Allied Health Assistants
Tiffany Deutsch
My name is Tiffany and I am a Registered Nurse by trade with over 10 years’ experience working in a variety of roles. These included public, private and community which also gave me the privilege of working in rehab for many years as well.
I have taken an opportunity to move into a new role as an Allied Health Assistant to develop new skills and provide the best possible care to each and every client.
Jordan Dodd
My journey started as a support worker in 2021 where I was heavily involved in supporting clients with neurological conditions.
During this time, I was also studying Sport Science and Nutrition at the University of the Sunshine Coast. In 2022 I completed my degree (Bachelor of Sport Studies, majoring in Sport and Exercise Nutrition).
Since then, I have been fortunate enough to merge my experience and passion in this field by providing training and nutritional support to clients in a clinical setting. I also have a keen interest in youth performance and development and have worked with youth heavily involved in kart racing, basketball, and football. I love working closely with clients and tailoring programs to maximise performance.
I recently joined the team at Community Neuro Rehab service as an Allied Health Assistant and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the allied team to provide quality care and support to our clients. I’m looking forward to expanding my skill set and knowledge within the neurological field.
In my spare time I love being in the outdoors, at the gym, by the beach and spending time with friends and family.
Management Staff
Rohan Lloyd
I have a background in mining as an electrician working away from home for extended periods over the past for 10 years. When the opportunity arose to be closer to my family and create this family practice I couldn’t resist. I have always had an interest in the healthcare industry and I regularly attend the gym so it felt like an easy move.
I am now the practice manager for CNRS looking after the operational and running of the company so that our therapist can dedicate their time and focus on their clients.
Living on the Sunshine Coast for over 5 years now, it’s the place I love to call home. My hobbies include finding new hobbies, fishing, playing sport and adventures with my family.