Peak Physio is one of Newcastle's most trusted providers of health, fitness, and rehabilitation services. Our physiotherapists & exercise physiologists are experts in injury management having helped over 25,000 clients since 2012.
For all types of physiotherapy across the Newcastle, Hunter & Central Coast regions, Peak Physio is the home of expertise, professionalism, and effective treatment.
Peak Physio opened in 2012 to provide Physiotherapy and Pilates to the Newcastle community. Since then, we've helped thousands of patients recover from injury and return to full function. Our results have helped us to become known as the Newcastle physiotherapy experts.
The physiotherapists at Peak Physio practice with a strong "hands on" approach, utilising massage, manual therapies, dry needling, shockwave and manipulation, teamed up with exercise therapy through strengthening and rehabilitation.
We also have a significant focus on Pilates, post-operative physiotherapy, sports physio, vestibular rehabilitation, pain management, women's health, customised exercise programs, corporate health and more.
Peak Physio is your number one choice for high-quality, effective, professional physiotherapy treatment.
Laith Cunneen
Managing Director
MScMed MPhty BExScRehab
Laith is a registered physiotherapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. He has worked across a wide range of healthcare disciplines in exercise physiology, physiotherapy, personal training and corporate health consulting. As a treating physiotherapist, Laith has extensive experience with musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, postural correction, and the management of complex and chronic pain conditions. He holds masters degrees in Physiotherapy and Pain Management.
Olivia Hadfield
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Newcastle East
📍Newcastle West
Olivia is a registered physiotherapist from the University of Newcastle with a keen interest in running, sports performance, women’s health and dance rehabilitation. Olivia has completed additional training in dry needling, back / neck pathology, women's health, clinical pilates, pre-pointe ballet assessments and a FIFA diploma. In her spare time, Olivia enjoys running, triathlon, spending time at the beach and relaxing with friends and family.
Ariane McCormack
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons) BCom MHRM CD
📍Newcastle East
📍Rutherford
Ariane is a physiotherapist from the University of Newcastle who has spent much of her life competing in sports. She has completed numerous marathons and 100km ultra trail races, even representing Canada in the world triathlon championships! As a physiotherapist, Ariane has extensive training, having attained additional qualifications in dry needling and completed advanced courses in lumbar, pelvic, and hip rehabilitation. Ariane is also a level 3 Yoga teacher and has a particular interest in the ageing active person. In her free time, Ariane enjoys a good coffee, running Glenrock trails, and spending time with her family and Border Collie Hobbes.
Jason Pongracic
Physiotherapist
MPhty BHealthSci
📍Newcastle East
📍Newcastle West
Jason is an experienced physiotherapist who enjoys working with all types of clients but retains a special interest in sports injuries & back/neck pain. He has completed additional training in shoulder, hip, and knee pathologies, as well as dry needling. Jason prides himself on using the latest evidence but understands the importance of putting patients at the centre of their recovery, emphasising that people "don't care how much you know until they know how much you care". Jason has been a physiotherapist for semi-professional Australian Rules teams and is a high-level athlete himself, having played 100 games in the VFL.
Mekaela Hockey
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Newcastle West
📍Budgewoi
Mekaela is a registered physiotherapist with a first-class honours degree from the University of Newcastle, where she completed her thesis on osteoarthritis of the knee. She has worked across diverse settings, including as a sports trainer, allied health assistant, and disability support worker, gaining extensive experience with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
With additional qualifications in dry needling and manual therapy, Mekaela has a keen interest in both athletic performance and senior health. She is passionate about helping individuals of all ages move better and feel stronger. Outside of the clinic, you’ll find Mekaela embracing the outdoors—whether it's hiking, camping, backpacking through Southeast Asia, or spending time at the beach.
Jed Grant
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Newcastle East
📍Budgewoi
Jed is a registered Physiotherapist, graduating from the University of Newcastle. Jed gained valuable experience throughout University when working as a Sports Trainer for local football clubs, and was also selected for a 10 week placement at the Newcastle Jets in the final year of his study. Since graduating, Jed has completed further training in dry needling and management of lower back pain. Jed enjoys working with a wide range of people and conditions, from sporting and running injuries, to assisting in healthy ageing. Outside of Physiotherapy, Jed spends his time playing football, running, travelling, and going on camping trips.
Robyn Hughes
Physiotherapist
BPhysio
📍Budgewoi
Robyn is an experienced physiotherapist and has been a committed member of the Budgewoi team for 15 years. She has a high standing in the community and has raised her family in the area. Robyn is dedicated to caring for a person as a whole, bringing her expertise in the three pillars of physiotherapy management: manual therapy, exercise prescription and expert advice. She has a keen interest in self empowerment and healthy ageing. Robyn is an avid tennis player and sports fan, and enjoys skiing, walking and swimming. She pursues art as her hobby.
Jennifer Sartor
Physiotherapist
BPhysio
📍Budgewoi
Jennifer is an experienced physiotherapist who graduated from Charles Sturt University in Albury. She has experience across the spectrum of healthcare, including private practice and hospitals in NSW, SA, Victoria and Queensland. Jennifer has done further training in dry needling, therapeutic yoga, and pilates, which she incorporates into her treatment. She enjoys working with people of all ages but has a special interest in treating vertigo and vestibular rehabilitation. In her spare time she enjoys rock climbing, trekking, camping and generally enjoying the outdoors to the fullest.
Jai Wadwell
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Rutherford
Jai is a physiotherapist from the University of Newcastle who enjoys treating a broad spectrum of clients with varying goals and levels of fitness. He is a sports enthusiast and has worked extensively as a sports trainer with local soccer, AFL, and netball teams, but also holds a strong interest in healthy ageing for seniors and all forms of musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Jai has also completed further training in dry needling and incorporates this technique into his practise. Outside of work, Jai loves training in brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing, and spending time with his friends and family.
Judy Smith
Physiotherapist
BPhysio
📍Budgewoi
Judy is a physiotherapist with extensive experience in many areas, such as post-operative rehabilitation and general private practice. She has lived and worked on the Central Coast for many years. Judy has a keen interest in caring for the client as a whole person and fosters a positive approach to recovery. She is passionate about assisting older people to live their best lives. Her personal interests include birdwatching, bushwalking, healthy cooking, and gardening.
Ashley Thompson
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Newcastle East
📍Budgewoi
Ashley is a registered Physiotherapist, completing her study at the University of Newcastle. She has previous experience in a multiple areas, including private practice and community settings, where she worked as an allied health assistant. Ashley enjoys treating clients from a variety of backgrounds and is passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals. Growing up by the ocean, Ashley loves the outdoors and in her spare time enjoys bushwalking, spending quality time with loved ones, and a good book.
Scarlet Xavier
Physiotherapist
BPhysio (Hons)
📍Newcastle West
📍Rutherford
Scarlet is a registered Physiotherapist from Brisbane, completing her studies at the University of Queensland. Scarlet gained invaluable experience across a range of areas while studying, including working as a Sports Trainer for local football clubs, in private practice administration, in disability support work and completing specialised ski-boot fitting on the slopes in Canada. Scarlet is passionate about treating a diverse range of ages and conditions, from sport-related injuries to supporting healthy ageing. Outside of the clinic, Scarlet enjoys being outdoors – whether it’s running along Newcastle’s beach trails or exploring the local surf spots.
Tamara Carter
Physiotherapist
BPhysio
📍Budgewoi
Tamara is a physiotherapist with over 30 years’ experience across public health and private practice. She has held senior musculoskeletal roles and worked with a diverse range of patient populations in various clinical settings. A credentialled McKenzie Therapist, Tamara has particular expertise in hand and upper limb rehabilitation and is also trained in lymphoedema management.
She has completed numerous professional development courses, including Level 1 and 2 Sports Physiotherapy, and has supported major events such as the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, fun runs, marathons and sports gala days.
Outside of work, Tamara enjoys spending time with her family, dancing, and outdoor adventures.
Cheryl Doyle
Administration Manager
📍Newcastle East
Born and bred in Newcastle, Cheryl trained in medical administration and has extensive experience in customer service related positions. Always a friendly face, she is responsible for the administrative technical operations of Peak Physio and for always producing the warm and welcoming environment. Having helped the practice develop since 2014, Cheryl is a familiar encounter to all of our loyal physiotherapy clients.
Michelle Coe
Reception & Administration
📍Rutherford
A Maitland local with vast experience in administration and customer service, Michelle looks after reception at our Rutherford clinic. She loves meeting clients from all walks of life and always goes above and beyond to assist. Outside of work, you'll likely find Michelle refining her swing at one the region's beautiful golf courses.
Mary-Anne Branagan
Reception & Administration
📍Budgewoi
Mary-Anne shares reception at our Budgewoi clinic. Recently coming from a medical background, she has vast experience in administration and secretarial work. Always up for a chat, Mary-Anne is more than happy to be of service to our clients. A mother of four adults, she spends her spare time at her newfound obsession, the gym, or spending quiet days with her husband and family.
Lisa Berry
Reception & Administration
📍Budgewoi
Lisa is one of the receptionists at our Budgewoi clinic. She has an extensive background in customer service as well as administration and is always happy to assist in any way she can. Outside of work she is a busy mum, taking her children to sports and other activities. When she has the time, she loves going to Yoga, and spending time at the beach with family and friends.
