Admin & Nursing Team

PRACTICE MANAGER

Meet Alissa, our dedicated Practice Manager, who oversees the operations of three thriving medical centres, including our two Hervey Bay locations and our sister clinic in Graceville, with an exciting new location planned to open in early 2027. Having worked alongside Carrie and Wayne since 2017, Alissa has become an integral part of the organisation’s growth and success.

Through her hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence, Alissa progressed into the role of Practice Manager, a position she has proudly held for the past several years. She is passionate about creating positive experiences for both patients and staff while ensuring the highest standards of care and operational efficiency are maintained across all clinics.

Alissa thrives in a fast-paced environment and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of clinic operations, including staff management, recruitment, budgeting, compliance, patient experience, and strategic growth. Her strong leadership and dedication play a key role in the continued success and expansion of our medical centres.

Outside of work, Alissa enjoys spending quality time with her family and making the most of the outdoors. She loves camping, visiting the beach, and relaxing with a good book. Her balance of professionalism, compassion, and dedication makes her a valued leader and an essential part of the Family First Medical Centre team.

ADMINISTRATION MANAGER

Meet Beverley, who joined Family First Medical Centre in February 2021 and has become an integral part of our team. As our Administration Manager, Beverley plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations of the clinic, leading our reception team and ensuring every patient receives exceptional service and care from the moment they walk through our doors.

Beverley oversees and supports our reception staff, manages administrative processes, assists with onsite IT and system issues, and works closely with our Practice Manager to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the clinic. She is also responsible for developing and maintaining training manuals, onboarding new team members, and providing ongoing training and support to all reception staff. Her leadership, knowledge, and commitment to excellence help maintain the high standards our patients and team have come to expect.

With experience across a variety of industries, Beverley has found her true passion in healthcare administration. Her dedication to supporting both patients and staff, combined with her problem-solving skills and attention to detail, make her an invaluable member of the Family First team.

Outside of work, Beverley enjoys spending quality time with her family and relaxing by watching her favourite TV series. We are proud to have Beverley’s leadership, expertise, and unwavering support as part of the Family First Medical Centre team.

SENIOR MEDICAL ADMINISTRATIOR

Meet Maddie, who joined Family First Medical Centre in 2020 and played a pivotal role in the opening of our sister clinic in Graceville. Her dedication, professionalism, and passion for providing exceptional support have contributed significantly to the success and growth of both clinics.

Throughout her time with the organisation, Maddie has taken on a wide range of responsibilities, including reception, theatre assistance alongside Dr Norval, and training and mentoring new team members. Her versatility, strong work ethic, and willingness to support wherever needed have made her an invaluable member of the team.

Maddie has since transitioned into a remote role, where she continues to provide essential administrative support across both Family First Medical Centre and our Graceville clinic. She also oversees the management of our social media platforms and website content, helping to keep our patients informed and connected with the latest clinic updates and services.

Outside of work, Maddie enjoys spending quality time with her husband, children, and beloved dogs. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a family camping trip, she values creating lasting memories with her loved ones.

MedicoLegal Admin Officer

Melinda has been a valued member of the Family First Medical Centre team since 2015, bringing over 25 years of experience in the medical industry. As our MedicoLegal Admin Officer, she plays a crucial role in managing various essential services, including WorkCover, medical reports, ADF transitions, insurance claims, and medical legal support for our patients.

With her qualifications in Certificate 3 in Business Administration, Certificate 3 in Medical Administration, and a Commission of Declarations, Melinda is well-equipped to assist with a wide range of administrative and medical services.

Outside of work, Melinda enjoys spending time at the beach and staying active at the gym. We’re proud to have Melinda as part of our team, delivering exceptional care and support to our patients every day.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Meet Sophie, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team in March 2024 as a Medical Receptionist. Sophie is passionate about her role and finds great fulfilment in supporting our patients and ensuring their needs are met with professionalism, care, and compassion. Her friendly and welcoming nature helps create a positive experience for every patient who visits our clinic.

Sophie primarily works alongside Dr Gayan and Dr Upadhya in the Annex Rooms at our Urraween Road Clinic, where she provides dedicated administrative support and assists in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the practice. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellent patient service make her a valued member of the team.

Outside of work, Sophie enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her grandchildren and beloved pets. She is an avid lover of the outdoors and enjoys gardening, fishing, and camping.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Ella has been a valued member of the Family First Medical Centre team since January 2022. As a Medical Receptionist, Ella is dedicated to providing excellent care and support to our patients, always ensuring they feel welcomed and well taken care of. Her caring and compassionate approach to patient interactions makes her an integral part of our team.

Outside of work, Ella enjoys spending her weekends with family and has a passion for baking, often spending time in the kitchen creating delicious treats. We are proud to have Ella’s warmth and dedication as part of the Family First family.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Debbie joined the Family First Medical Centre team in March 2025 as a Medical Receptionist. With seven years of experience in administration and 30 years as a sales representative, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to her role. She is dedicated to helping patients with the utmost care and efficiency, ensuring that their experience is as smooth and positive as possible.

Outside of work, Debbie enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her beloved dogs (whom she lovingly refers to as her “fur kids”). She also has a passion for line dancing with friends and has a keen interest in classic cars.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Lynda Callander has been a Medical Receptionist at Family First Medical Centre since October 2024. In her role, Lynda takes great pride in being part of a team that provides exceptional care, especially in the critical area of skin cancer detection and treatment. While she may not be directly involved in medical procedures, Lynda feels fortunate to contribute, even in a small way, to the life-changing work that the doctors do for their patients.

Outside of her professional life, Lynda is a devoted mum who enjoys spending quality time with her family and pets. She also loves walking on the beach, cherishing the peaceful moments with her loved ones. Lynda finds fulfillment in knowing that her work at Family First Medical Centre helps improve the health and well-being of the community.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Chloe joined our team in early 2025 and has quickly become a valued all-rounder—starting as a Theatre Assistant, moving into Reception, and now also managing our stocks.

She loves working alongside the doctors and caring for patients and finds it especially rewarding to build genuine connections with the regulars who come through the practice. Always eager to learn, Chloe enjoys taking on new challenges, whether in admin or theatre.

Outside of work, Chloe spends most of her time with her partner, often heading off camping or fishing—Fraser Island is their favourite spot. She also loves spending quality time with her family.

Chloe’s enthusiasm, adaptability, and caring nature make her a wonderful addition to our team.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Ebony is our wonderful Medical Receptionist that started with our team in November 2025. She brings over 10 years of experience in healthcare administration. She is a highly organised front desk professional with strong skills in scheduling, patient intake, and managing confidential medical information. Ebony thrives in fast-paced environments and is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. With her warm smile and friendly approach, she strives to make every patient’s visit a positive experience.

Ebony is currently completing her Certificate IV in Mental Health, further enhancing her ability to support patients with care and understanding.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at the beach with her fiancé and two children, watching true crime documentaries, and growing her indoor plant collection.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Meet Felicity, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team in 2025 as a Medical Receptionist. With eight years of experience in medical administration, Felicity brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping others. We are very fortunate to have her as part of our reception team.

Originally from London, Felicity relocated to Australia in 2012 and soon discovered that medical administration was the perfect career path, allowing her to combine her love of helping people with work she truly enjoys. Her friendly personality, strong organisational skills, and dedication to patient care help ensure every patient feels welcomed, supported, and valued during their visit.

Outside of work, Felicity enjoys spending quality time outdoors with her son, making the most of family adventures and creating lasting memories together. She is also a keen karaoke enthusiast and enjoys sharing plenty of laughs with family and friends

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

We are excited to welcome Bree to our reception team. She brings experience from both medical administration and customer-focused roles, along with a genuine passion for supporting patients. With a strong interest in healthcare and patient care, she enjoys being the first point of contact and helping create a calm, friendly environment for both patients and staff.

What she enjoys most about her role is working with a team that values connection and patient-centred care. Bree takes pride in contributing to a positive, smooth experience for everyone who visits the practice.

When she’s not at work, you’ll often find her at the beach, spending time with her nieces, or unwinding with a good truecrime docuseries.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST

Meet Sarah, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team in July 2025. Sarah brings a diverse background to the clinic, with extensive experience in both retail and childcare. She spent six years as the Second-in-Charge of an organic health food store and has over 12 years of experience working in childcare, providing her with a strong foundation in customer service, communication, and supporting others.

Sarah has a passion for holistic wellbeing and is deeply committed to helping those around her. She finds the greatest fulfilment in being of service to others and takes pride in supporting patients through their healthcare journey. Her warm, compassionate nature and belief in leading with love and kindness make her a welcoming presence for both patients and colleagues alike.

Sarah genuinely loves being able to assist patients, particularly during times when they may need extra support or guidance. Her caring approach and dedication to patient care embody the values of Family First Medical Centre.

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending time with family and friends, camping, and nurturing her love of crystals and indoor plants. She is also an avid reader with a particular interest in self-development books, biographies, and autobiographies.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST/ THEATRE ADMIN

Rachel is a valued member of our team, working as both a Receptionist and Theatre Assistant. With a background in business management and over five years of experience, she brings a high level of organisation, efficiency, and professionalism to her role.

Rachel enjoys working closely with patients and is passionate about ensuring each person feels comfortable, supported, and well cared for throughout their visit. She has a particular interest in theatre assisting and takes pride in contributing to a smooth and well-coordinated environment for both patients and the clinical team.

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys spending time at home with her partner and children, relaxing over home-cooked meals and making the most of family time.

THEATRE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Holly is a dedicated Theatre Admin Assistant who genuinely enjoys both her work and the people she has the privilege of working with and caring for. Currently studying Nursing at university, she is passionate about building a career centred on compassion, patient wellbeing, and delivering high-quality care.

Holly holds Certificate II and III qualifications in Allied Health, providing her with a strong foundation in clinical support and patient care. Known for her kind and caring nature, she strives to ensure every patient feels comfortable, supported, and respected throughout their healthcare journey.

Outside of work and study, Holly enjoys staying active through playing soccer and riding motocross, helping her maintain a balanced and energetic lifestyle.

THEATRE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Meet Dakota, a dedicated Theatre Assistant with a strong passion for patient care and a commitment to building a rewarding career in healthcare. Holding a Certificate II in Health and bringing experience in allied health, Dakota has developed a solid foundation in clinical support and patient wellbeing.

Known for her kind, compassionate, and approachable nature, Dakota takes pride in helping patients feel comfortable, supported, and at ease throughout their healthcare journey. Her positive attitude and genuine care for others make her a valued member of our theatre team.

Dakota is currently working towards her goal of becoming a Paediatric Nurse and is passionate about continuing to expand her knowledge and skills within the healthcare industry.

Outside of work, Dakota enjoys attending music festivals, spending time with friends, and exploring new places. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and caring nature make her a wonderful asset to the Family First Medical Centre team.

THEATRE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Sienna joined Family First Medical as a Junior Theatre Admin Assistant after graduating school last year, bringing enthusiasm, compassion, and a strong commitment to patient care. She is passionate about supporting both patients and the clinical team, helping to ensure a smooth and positive experience throughout every stage of care.

Sienna is known for her warm and approachable nature, always striving to make patients feel comfortable and supported. Outside of work, she enjoys running, reading, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

THEATRE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Meet Steph, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team in early 2026 as a Theatre Admin Assistant. Steph is currently an Enrolled Nurse and is furthering her healthcare career by studying to become a Registered Nurse.

You will most often see Steph working alongside our Skin Cancer Doctors, assisting with skin checks, excisions, and minor surgical procedures. She is passionate about patient care and is known for her kind, compassionate, and supportive nature, helping patients feel comfortable and cared for throughout their visit.

As a mum of one, Steph understands the importance of empathy and connection in healthcare. She enjoys being part of a team that helps make a positive difference in patients’ lives and takes pride in providing exceptional support within our Skin Cancer Clinic.

Outside of work, Steph loves spending time with family and friends and has a creative flair for party decorating and event hosting. Her warm personality, dedication to patient care, and enthusiasm for learning make her a valued member of the Family First Medical Centre team.

THEATRE ADMIN ASSISTANT

Meet Lilliana, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team in March 2026. Lilliana is passionate about healthcare and supporting patients throughout their experience with our clinic. Prior to joining the team, she gained over three years of customer service experience in retail, developing strong communication skills and a genuine passion for helping others.

After graduating from high school in 2025, Lilliana commenced her Bachelor of Nursing and is working towards her goal of becoming a Child Health Nurse, where she hopes to support children and families throughout their healthcare journeys. She is passionate about providing compassionate care, building meaningful connections, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Lilliana enjoys being part of the Family First team, where she continues to learn new skills every day and gain valuable experience that complements her nursing studies. Her friendly nature, eagerness to learn, and dedication to patient care make her a wonderful addition to our clinic.

Outside of work, Lilliana loves dancing and spending quality time with her two younger sisters, friends, and family. Her enthusiasm, warmth, and commitment to healthcare make her a valued member of the Family First Medical Centre team.

NURSING DIRECTOR

Jade returned to Family First Medical Centre in June 2022 and now serves as our Nursing Director, bringing with her over 13 years of nursing experience. Having previously worked with the Family First team for eight years before her time at Hervey Bay Hospital as a Nurse Navigator, Jade is proud to once again contribute her leadership and expertise to the practice.

As Nursing Director, Jade is responsible for the clinical management of the entire practice, providing guidance and support to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care across all areas of service. Her extensive clinical background and commitment to excellence underpin the smooth operation of our healthcare team.

Outside of work, Jade enjoys spending time with her family, playing the piano, and reading.

CLINICAL NURSE CONSULTANT

Nurse Anita joined the Family First Medical Centre team in May 2022 after relocating to Hervey Bay with her family. With over 25 years of nursing experience, Anita is a highly skilled Clinical Nurse Consultant, specialising in Immunisation & our Co-ordinated Veterans Care program, who works closely with our doctors to provide exceptional care for our patients.

In her role, Anita oversees our immunisation programs and the coordination of care for our veterans, ensuring every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate support. Her professionalism, clinical expertise, and commitment to patient-centred care make her an invaluable part of our team.

Outside of work, Anita enjoys spending time with her family, walking along the beach, and travelling to explore new places.

ENROLLED NURSE (CURRENTLY ON MATURNITY LEAVE)

Nurse Jess joined the Family First Medical Centre team in March 2023 as an Enrolled Nurse. Originally from Canberra, Jess relocated to Hervey Bay in 2020 to complete her Diploma in Nursing. With a strong background in general practice, Jess has developed a deep passion for working closely with patients to deliver the highest standard of care.

Jess is happily married and enjoys spending her free time at the beach, as well as making memories with her family and dogs. We are excited to have Jess on our team, where her commitment to patient care and compassionate approach make a real difference to those we serve.

REGISTERED NURSE

Jess rejoined the Family First Medical Centre team in May 2024 as a Registered Nurse, bringing with her over a decade of experience in community nursing and preventative care. Having worked with our team for six years before transitioning to the Primary Health Network (PHN), Jess returned to general practice nursing because of her deep passion for clinical care and chronic disease management.

With 11 years of hands-on experience in nursing, Jess is dedicated to promoting health and well-being in the community. Her extensive background in preventative care allows her to help patients proactively manage their health, with a special focus on chronic disease management. Jess finds immense fulfillment in providing compassionate care and supporting her patients through all stages of their health journey.

Outside of her professional life, Jess has a true passion for traveling, always eager to explore new places and cultures. She also loves attending live shows and concerts, as music is one of her greatest joys. When she’s at home, Jess cherishes quality time with her wife, kids, and extended family, always seeking to make the most of every moment with her loved ones.

ENROLLED NURSE

Seryn brings over five years of experience in disability and aged care support within the community, which inspired her passion for pursuing a career in nursing. She graduated in 2025 as an Enrolled Nurse and is currently continuing her studies at university, working towards becoming a Registered Nurse. We are very fortunate to have Seryn as part of our team.

Seryn is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centred care and values building strong, supportive relationships with her patients. Her background has given her a deep understanding of the importance of dignity, respect, and quality care in every healthcare setting.

Outside of work and study, Seryn enjoys making the most of her time with her family. She loves taking the caravan out to explore new places and going on bush walks and hikes. Having lived in the bay for over 35 years, she is a proud local, as well as a devoted wife and mum to four boys.

REGISTERED NURSE

Meet Nurse Thea, who joined the Family First Medical Centre team at the beginning of 2026. With over a decade of nursing experience, Thea is a dedicated Registered Nurse with a strong background in paediatric and primary healthcare.

Having worked across a variety of clinical settings, including the past ten years in primary healthcare, Thea has developed a broad range of skills and a deep understanding of community health needs. She is passionate about delivering high-quality, patient-centred care and building strong, trusting relationships with her patients and their families.

Known for her compassionate and caring nature, Thea genuinely loves her work and is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those she cares for. Her dedication to patient wellbeing makes her a valued member of the Family First team.