Hi, I’m Mel.
I originally emigrated from South Africa with my family 25 years ago. I started working in hospital wards from the age of 18. So, I have been working in the industry on and off over the last 30 years.
Phillip Island has been my home this last decade. I have three children of my own and an extra child that I managed to acquire along the way. They have all attended school locally and we cherish our island lifestyle. My household is always bustling; filled with dogs, cats, kids and a duck.
I am very lucky, as I have not only had my children’s support throughout my extensive studies, but also the support of my colleagues, teammates and friends.
Living by the water for me, has become a necessity to my days. I surf ‘in the white-water waves’, enjoy swimming and love to kayak. I am also a closet artist with a studio in my backyard. I tend to work in a variety of mediums including; clay, metal, plastic and glass.
My wider community involvement ranges from climbing Kilimanjaro in support of Dementia Australia to kayaking the Murray River Marathon to supporting the local clubs my children have been involved in.
Primarily, my goal is to now give back, using my qualifications and skills, and provide health support within our community.
As a Nurse Practitioner I can assess people, order tests, write referrals and sick certificates, diagnose and prescribe independently and bulk bill under Medicare. My focus is on primary health care, particularly in older patients, complex wound care and chronic disease management.
I believe in a holistic approach to health management, treatment, care and prevention and by spending time with patients and listening to what they need, I believe I can assist them in achieving better long-term health outcomes.
