At Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy, we believe great care starts with great people. Our team is passionate about helping our community stay active, strong and doing the things they love.
Today we’re introducing Lara, one of our physiotherapists who brings a holistic approach to injury recovery, strength building and long-term health.
Tell us a little about yourself — where did you grow up and what brought you to the Tweed Coast?
I grew up in Mackay in North Queensland. I moved to the Tweed Coast because of my love of the beach, outdoor lifestyle and the relaxed country feel of the area.
It’s the perfect place to raise a family and enjoy being active outdoors.
What made you want to become a Physiotherapist?
I’ve always loved helping people. Physiotherapy allows me to work closely with people and help them improve their health, reduce pain and get back to living the life they enjoy.
What do you love most about being a Physio?
Helping people get back to what they love most and supporting them to live an active life again.
Seeing someone return to sport, playing with their kids, or simply moving confidently again is incredibly rewarding.
What do you think people are often surprised to learn about Physiotherapy?
Many people are surprised to learn that physiotherapy is about much more than just treating pain.
We focus on understanding the whole person, helping people build strength, confidence and long-term capacity so they can stay active and prevent future injuries.
Clinical Expertise & Special Interests
What areas of physiotherapy are you most passionate about?
I enjoy all areas of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, but I have a particular interest in ankle and hip injuries.
These joints are incredibly important for movement and performance, whether someone is walking, running, surfing or playing sport.
What conditions do you see most often in clinic?
Many people come in with sports injuries, joint pain, back pain, hip pain, ankle injuries and overuse injuries related to activity or work.
Is there a type of patient you particularly enjoy helping?
I love helping people who want to stay active or return to the activities they love, whether that’s sport, exercise, surfing, hiking, or simply keeping up with their children.
What’s your approach to treatment?
My approach is holistic.
I combine:
- Hands-on treatment
- Education about pain and recovery
- Targeted exercises
The goal is to reduce pain, build strength and increase capacity, so people can confidently return to the activities they care about.
How do you combine Physiotherapy and Pilates in treatment?
Often we begin treatment in the physio rooms, helping settle pain through techniques such as:
- Manual therapy
- Dry needling
- Massage
Once pain settles, we progress toward a Pilates-based strength program.
This helps people develop the strength, capacity and confidence to move again, whether that’s:
- Playing with their children
- Returning to sport
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Gardening
What’s the biggest mistake people make when managing pain?
One of the biggest mistakes is letting pain stop them from moving completely.
Pain can create fear, but movement is often an important part of recovery. Pain is essentially our brain’s way of asking us to check in with our body.
With the right guidance, most people can continue moving safely while they recover.
Philosophy & Values
What do you believe is the key to long-term recovery?
Looking at the big picture and investing time in rehabilitation.
Recovery isn’t just about getting out of pain — it’s about building strength and resilience so the problem doesn’t keep coming back.
How important is strength and longevity in your approach?
Very important.
Strength helps protect our joints, improve movement and keep us doing the activities we enjoy for many years to come.
How do you help patients who feel frustrated or stuck in persistent pain?
Education and understanding are key.
When people understand why they have pain and what they can do about it, they often feel more hopeful and confident.
I focus on:
- Compassion
- Education
- Practical strategies
to help people move forward again.
What role do the nervous system and stress play in pain and injury?
Stress can impact the body in many ways, particularly pain.
Our nervous system is the body’s regulator, and when it’s out of balance it can influence how our body feels and functions.
Supporting the nervous system is an important part of recovery.
Life Outside the Clinic
What do you love doing outside of work?
I love spending time with my family.
You’ll often find us at the beach, hiking or cycling in nature. I also enjoy relaxing with a coffee and a good book.
If we saw you on the weekend, where would you be?
Most likely diving in the ocean or walking along the beach, unless I’m taking my children to soccer or nippers.
Quick favourites
Coffee order: Flat white
Favourite beach: Spookies, Angourie
Book or podcast: Book
Favourite local café: Caba Social
Do you play any sport or have active hobbies?
Yes — I enjoy running and going to the gym.
Quick Fire Round
Early bird or night owl? Early bird
Beach or mountains? Beach
Pilates or gym? Pilates
Sweet or savoury? Both
Summer or winter? Definitely summer
Go-to recovery tool? Hands — there is power in touch
Community & Care
What do you love most about working at Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy?
The team and the sense of community.
What makes the clinic different from others?
We focus on the big picture, helping people move from injury to strength and an active lifestyle.
It’s not just about treating pain — it’s about helping people stay strong and active long-term.
What would you say to someone who is nervous about booking physiotherapy?
We’re here to listen and understand you.
Everyone’s situation is different, and our goal is to help you feel comfortable, supported and confident in your recovery.
If someone is unsure whether they need physio, what would you tell them?
If pain or injury is stopping you from doing the things you love, physiotherapy can help.
Often the earlier we assess the problem, the easier it is to guide recovery and prevent it becoming a long-term issue.
Book an Appointment with Lara
If you’re dealing with pain, injury or simply want to stay strong and active, Lara is here to help.
You can book online at Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy or speak with our team to find the right appointment for you.