We sat down with Marie for a Q and A
1. Tell us a little about yourself — where did you grow up and what brought you to the Tweed Coast?
I grew up on Reunion Island (a French Island in the Indian Ocean) and moved to the Tweed Coast as a teenager to pursue competitive surfing.
After finishing high school, I travelled and competed on the qualifying series until COVID hit. I now live on the southern end of the Gold Coast and feel fortunate to call this part of the world home.
2. What made you want to become a Physiotherapist? Was there a moment you knew?
As an athlete, I was constantly working with trainers and physiotherapists, and I became fascinated by how they empowered us to perform at our best. After experiencing a serious injury myself, I went through a structured rehabilitation program with a physiotherapist, and that’s when everything truly clicked for me.
After a few years of competition and travelling, I studied a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at Southern Cross University, followed by a Doctor of Physiotherapy at Bond University.
3. What do you love most about being a Physio?
4. What areas of Physiotherapy are you most passionate about and why?
This is a hard one as I enjoy many. I really like general musculoskeletal and sport physiotherapy, but also vestibular physiotherapy.
5. What conditions do you see most often in clinic?
We see a wide range of conditions, from headaches and vertigo to knee, elbow, back, and neck pain. I would say that back and neck pain are among the most common.
6. What’s your approach to treatment?
My approach to treatment begins with hands-on therapy and education, then quickly progresses to symptom-modification exercises and a strength program to give the tools to recover and maintain a healthy body. I love empowering my patients and helping them see that they can take an active role in their own recovery.
I’m also very mindful that every patient is unique, which is why I also take a holistic approach in my practice.
7. How do you combine Physio and Pilates in your treatment plans?
I believe that both are essential for achieving optimal health—you can’t have one without the other. I usually provide a home-based strength program that patients can follow independently, along with a Pilates program in the clinic for clinical exercise classes. However, this can vary, and if a patient prefers more guidance, I combine both into a supervised clinical exercise program.
8. What do you think is the biggest mistake people make when it comes to managing pain?
The two main mistakes I’ve encountered are expecting a quick fix and stopping exercise as soon as they start to feel better. It is a process that we have to continue for long-term wellbeing.
9. What do you believe is the key to long-term recovery?
Doing things you love and staying active (of course!) without forgetting to recover.
10. How important is strength and longevity in your approach?
It is crucial. If you want lasting results, it is definitely worthwhile.
11. What do you love doing outside of work?
I go surfing, walking my dog, and spending time with friends and family. If there are no waves, I’ll go for a swim or head out to explore—anything that keeps me outdoors, otherwise I start to get cabin fever.
12. If we saw you on the weekend, where would you be?
At the beach, of course !
13. What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’m a nerd and always have a book with me.
14. Favourite:
- Coffee order? Hot choccy 🙄
- Local café? Three sons
Quick Fire Round
- Early bird or night owl? Early bird (but not too early)
- Beach or mountains? Beach
- Pilates or gym? Both – no gin without tonic
- Sweet or savoury? Sweet
- Summer or winter? Endless summer
- Go-to recovery tool? Spa
15. What do you love most about working at Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy?
I love the sense of community, the beach vibe, and the friendliness. Everyone is so welcoming—from the patients to the staff. It’s a pleasure coming to work knowing you’re supported and that you’ll share a few laughs along the way.
The physios consistently exchange ideas and clinical experiences regarding treatments and patient care, which is extremely valuable in maintaining high-quality, evidence-based practice.
16. What would you say to someone who is nervous about booking in?
You won’t be disappointed. The staff will support you on your journey, helping you discover what’s best for you while providing a truly unique experience.
Book online here Physiotherapy Cabarita