GP Refresh

Meet Our Speakers

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Keynote Speaker

Dr Bruce Willett

Ex. RACGP QLD Chairman

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Speakers & Panelists

Dr Jonathan Banks

Respiratory Physician

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Dr Rick Steer

Orthopaedic Surgeon

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Dr Brent McMonagle

ENT Surgeon

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Dr Louise Ciin

Endocrinologist

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Dr Philip Townend

GI Surgeon

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Dr. Lee Yang

Neurosurgeon

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Dr John Gault

Breast Surgeon

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Dr. Yasmin Pilgrim

Gynaecologist

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Dr Michael Freeman

Dermatologist

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Dr Lewis Lam

Ophthalmologist

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Dr Saman Heshmat

Neurologist

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Dr Suzan Elharmeel

Gynaecologist

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Dr Heshini Desilva

Pain & Rehab Specialist

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Dr Himanshu Garg

Respiratory Physician

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Dr Ravinder Batra

Cardiologist

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Dr Shahid Hafeez

Cardiologist

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Dr Venu Bhamidi

Vascular Surgeon

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Dr Pradeep Ramaswamy

Gastroenterologist

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Dr Rohit Bansal

Geriatrician

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Dr Arun Naik

Colorectal Surgeon

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Dr Shunil Sharma

Rheumatologist

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Dr Sonam Joshi

Rheumatologist

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Dr Aneel Nihal

Orthopaedic Surgeon

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Dr Sagar Ramani

Oncologist

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Dr Sumit Lumba

Oncologist

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Dr Sandeep Chand

Psychiatrist

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Dr Viral Upadhyay

Neurologist

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Dr Sanjeev Gupta

Paediatrician

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Dr Ramesh Damodaran

Bariatric Surgeon

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Dr. Prakash Appanna

General Medical Practitioner

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Dr. Peter Tracey

 Urological Surgeon & Robotic Surgery Specialist

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Dr. Rohan Rao

General Practitioner

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Dr. Casey Going

General Practitioner | Educator | Speaker

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To be announced soon...

1300 GP REFRESH

Dr Bruce Willett

General Practitioner, Medical Educator, Health Policy Advocate

Dr Bruce Willett has over three decades of experience in general practice, combining personalised patient care with transformative leadership across the Australian healthcare sector. He has been a general practitioner since 1989 and was a successful practice owner, having established his first practice in Thorneside with his wife Gertrude in 1992 and later building Victoria Point Surgery in Brisbane’s south into a thriving business.

Bruce’s leadership extends far beyond clinical practice through his distinguished service with The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). He served as RACGP Vice President from July 2020 until November 2023 and was Queensland Faculty Chair from October 2016 until November 2023. His advocacy work has been instrumental in shaping general practice policy, including leading successful negotiations for payroll tax exemptions in Queensland and guiding the transition of GP training programmes back to the RACGP.

As Chair of General Practice Supervisors Australia (GPSA), Bruce demonstrated his commitment to medical education and supporting the next generation of GPs. He has been an RACGP examiner since 1994 and continues as a GP supervisor, training registrars. His educational leadership include establishing the GPs@Parliament programme in Queensland, which has been replicated across Australia.

Bruce played a pivotal role in the RACGP’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working closely with Queensland Health to develop policies and guidelines during the early stages of the crisis. His advocacy efforts have focused on addressing the underfunding of Medicare, maintaining fee-for-service as the mainstay of healthcare funding, and the role of general practice as the most cost-effective part of the healthcare system. 

Recently, Bruce received the Rose-Hunt Award, the RACGP’s highest accolade, recognising his significant contributions to general practice advocacy and education. The award acknowledged his role in galvanising opposition to proposed payroll tax changes affecting general practice and his leadership through the transition of training back to the colleges and during challenging periods for the profession.

Hobbies include writing bios in the third person, beetle fighting, competitive duck herding, and making up hobbies to make himself sound more interesting than he really is. 

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Dr Jonathan Banks

Respiratory, Sleep & General Medicine Physician

Dr Jon Banks is a Specialist in Respiratory, Sleep and General Medicine. His respiratory areas of interest include asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, lung cancer, chronic cough and breathlessness, respiratory and non-respiratory sleep disorders, pleural diseases and pulmonary vascular disease.

Jon completed his Bachelor of Pharmacy and post-graduate Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at University of Queensland. He obtained Fellowship to the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 2022 in Respiratory Medicine, Sleep Medicine and Adult Acute and General Medicine. Jon has completed an additional Clinical Diploma in Palliative Care Medicine.

His procedural expertise includes intercostal catheter and indwelling pleural catheter insertion, non-invasive ventilation, and flexible bronchoscopy. Jon performs convex and radial EBUS for diagnosis of lung cancer in addition to cryotherapy, APC, electrocautery and standard diagnostic bronchoscopy procedures.

Jon holds appointments as Staff Specialist in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at the Gold Coast University Hospital and Senior Lecturer at Griffith University. He is a member of Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand, European Respiratory Society and Australasian Sleep Association, and is a Justice of the Peace.

Jon is a caring, compassionate and astute clinician. He prioritises patient comfort, dignity and communication. He provides up-to-date, evidence-based medicine individualised to each patient. Jon welcomes referrals for consultation at John Flynn Medical Centre, Gold Coast Private Hospital and Pimpama Health Precinct.

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Dr Rick Steer

Surgery of the Knee & Hip, Sports injuries, and Trauma.

Dr. Rick Steer specialises in robotic assisted hip and knee replacement, revision joint surgery, sports knee injuries, and pelvis/acetabulum trauma.

He grew up in Victoria, completed medical school at the University of Queensland (2010), and undertook orthopaedic training in Queensland, becoming a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2020. During training, he worked as Lower Limb Fellow at Gold Coast University and Gold Coast Private Hospitals, focusing on hip and knee surgery, including robotic procedures.

Dr. Steer completed a fellowship in hip and knee surgery in Perth, gaining advanced experience in robotic arthroplasty and pelvic trauma surgery. Since returning to the Gold Coast in 2021, he works with Gold Coast Health and privately at Coast Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, serving as Deputy Director of Orthopaedic Surgery.

He is actively involved in research, training, and education, and regularly presents at national and international conferences.

Special Interests:

  • Primary and revision hip & knee replacement

  • Robotic assisted joint replacement

  • Hip resurfacing

  • Sports knee surgery (ligament, cartilage, meniscus)

  • Hamstring & gluteal tendon repair

  • Trauma including pelvis & acetabulum

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Dr Brent McMonagle

ENT Specialist, Head & Neck Surgeon

Dr Brent McMonagle is a highly experienced Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist on the Gold Coast, with over 20 years of expertise in adult and paediatric ENT, cochlear implants, and head & neck surgery.

A Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and member of ASOHNS, Dr McMonagle grew up on the Gold Coast and trained at the University of Queensland, completing advanced fellowships in Sydney, Adelaide, and London. He holds a PhD from Griffith University, researching nerve repair and regeneration.

Dr McMonagle established the Gold Coast’s cochlear implant and bone-anchored hearing aid programs, introduced image-guided sinus and skull base surgery, and contributes actively to research, teaching, and international publications. He also serves as Scientific Director of the Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation.

His special interests include hearing loss, tinnitus, balance disorders, sinus and skull base surgery, facial palsy, and obstructive sleep apnoea.

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Dr Louise Ciin

Endocrinologist

Dr Ciin did her basic and specialist medical training in the Endocrinology/Diabetes and General/Acute Medicine in the UK. She obtained full registration with the GMC and practised as a Specialist Consultant in the UK until 2010.

In May 2010, Dr Ciin accompanied her husband to Darwin, NT where she practised as an “Endocrinologist, General Physician and RAPU Physician” at the Royal Darwin Hospital until January 2014.

After moving to the Gold Coast in 2014, Dr Ciin has been practising from her private rooms in Southport and also working as a Staff Specialist Endocrinologist at the Gold Coast University Hospital.

Dr Ciin has been awarded Senior Lecturer status and is involved in the teaching of Medical Students at the Griffith University. She also serves as a “Principal Investigator” at the Clinical Trial Unit, Griffith University and conducts research into ‘Diabetes and Obesity’.

Dr Ciin has extensive knowledge and experience in the management of various Endocrinology/Diabetes related problems from her practice in the UK, Darwin and Gold Coast.

Dr Ciin’s experience includes treating patients with thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pituitary, and calcium and bone metabolism including osteoporosis, various diabetes problems including pump. She has worked as a DAFNE Doctor (Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating) for type-1 Diabetes in the UK. She has been working alongside Obstetricians on the Coast and looking after pregnant women with various diabetes, endocrine and medical problems.

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Dr Philip Townend

GI Surgeon

Associate Professor Philip Townend is a specialist in Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery as well as General Surgery. After graduating medicine from the University of New South Wales in 2007 he completed his internship/residency in Newcastle, NSW. He then went to South Africa and did a trauma surgery residency at Stanger Hospital in KwaZulu Natal. He was then successful in getting onto the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons SET trainee program
for general surgery where he was based at Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney. This is where he developed an interest in complex Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery.

After obtaining his FRACS in general surgery in 2017 he went on to receive further training as a fellow in HPB Surgery (doing high volume complex pancreatic and liver surgery) at Royal North Shore Hospital and the Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery Fellow at The Canberra Hospital, ACT. In 2018 Philip was one of 6 successful candidates throughout Australia and New Zealand to be offered an ANZGOSA (Australia and New Zealand Gastric and Oesophageal Surgery Association) Fellowship for 2 years. He continued his ANZGOSA training at Bankstown/Liverpool Hospital in Sydney specialising in both Oesophagogastric and Hepatopancreaticobiliary surgery. In 2019 he took his family to the United Kingdom where he worked as the oesophagogastric fellow at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham performing large volume oesophagogastric surgery.

He commenced consultant practice in 2020 at Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Private Hospital and Pindara Private Hospital. During his training and as a consultant he produced multiple research papers (some of which have received awards) and presented in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, USA and Europe. He is on committees locally, nationally and internationally responsible for improving patient care and supporting research projects. He was made Associate Professor at Griffith University School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2021 for his work in research and teaching.

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Dr. Lee Yang

Neurosurgeon

Dr Lee (Liqun) Yang is a Gold Coast spine surgeon and neurosurgeon in Queensland who specialises in keyhole and complex spine surgery (degenerative, tumour, trauma, infection and deformity), precision brain surgery (brain tumour, brain aneurysm, brain artery bypass, AVM – arteriovenous malformation and DAVF – dural arteriovenous fistula) and deep brain stimulation surgery (for Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor) as well as all aspects of brain, spine and peripheral nerve surgeries.

Using state-of-the-art facilities and the latest technology (including fully-equipped Kinevo 900 microscope – “see around corners”, robotic arms and digital hybrid visualization), Dr Yang offers first class neurosurgical treatment..

He undertook advanced training in Neurosurgery and Spine surgery at preeminent centres around Australia and obtained the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Fellowship in Melbourne. Dr Yang then completed a Fellowship in keyhole/complex Spine Surgery followed by a Fellowship in advanced neurovascular Surgery at the Royal North Shore Hospital, North Shore Private Hospital and Sydney Adventist Hospital in Sydney. Dr Yang has gained further experience in leading edge neurosurgery and spine surgery in Cleveland Clinic, U.S.A. and Shanghai Clinical Centre of Neurosurgery, China – the world’s largest leading neurosurgical centre, where he had visiting fellowship appointments.

Dr Yang is an Assistant Professor at Bond University School of Medicine and is actively involved in neurosurgical and spine research through the Gold Coast University Hospital and has received multiple awards for his research work including Rob Johnston Award from Spine Society of Australia and Smith Nephew Award from Cairns Society of Australia.

Dr Yang’s goal with all patients is to hear their concerns and work closely with them to deliver a personally tailored, comprehensive treatment program.

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Dr John Gault

Breast Surgeon

Dr John Gault opened the doors to Gault Surgery in 2011, aiming to provide individualised treatment in the fields of breast cancer, melanoma and laparoscopic general surgery.

At Gault Surgery, we understand that choosing your surgeon is a personal and important decision, and that you should never have to compromise on your values and needs. We aim to inform and empower you to make the right choice for you – working together with you in partnership. At Gault Surgery we value patient centered care that reduces the impact of disease on the community.

We want you to leave your initial consultation – and all interactions afterwards – feeling cared for, comfortable, informed and secure. Our goal is for you to feel confident that you are receiving optimal care, and that you are informed of all of your options while feeling heard and supported throughout the process.

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Dr. Yasmin Pilgrim

Gynaecologist

Dr. Yasmin Pilgrim is a highly credentialed obstetrician and gynaecologist offering personalised and comprehensive care to all women. 

As a mother of two, she is passionate about helping women through their pregnancy journey with a fresh and contemporary perspective on best practice in pregnancy care.

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Dr Michael Freema

Dermatologist

Associate Professor Michael Freeman is the founding Dermatologist consulting from The Skin Centre and specialises in cosmetic and laser dermatology.

Dr Freeman helps to diagnose and treat people with a range of dermatological conditions and contributes greatly to the field through teaching and research. He is particularly interested in advancing the use of specialised lasers, educating other dermatologists and leading more than a dozen clinical trials in this area.

Dr Freeman is a familiar face around many leading hospitals, including Director of Dermatology at the Gold Coast University Hospital, a visiting Dermatologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane and Associate Professor of Dermatology at Bond University.

A passionate sailor, Dr Freeman combines more than 30 years’ experience in the dermatology field with a friendly and approachable manner. He is highly regarded across the Gold Coast and further afield for his expert advice.

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Dr Lewis Lam

Ophthalmologist

Dr Lam is a subspecialty fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology. Prior to his arrival on the Gold Coast, he worked as a full-time Consultant Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Christchurch Public Hospital, serving a large area of New Zealand’s South Island, where he participated in both the retinal and general on-call roster.

During his ophthalmic training, he rotated through different hospitals around New Zealand, seeing an extensive variety of disease. He developed a passion for vitreoretinal surgery and was accepted to study under the guidance of Drs Stephen Guest and David Worseley in New Zealand’s North Island. Dr Lam also has a special interest in cataract and refractive lens surgery and stays updated with the advancements in intraocular lens technology. He undertook a Post-Graduate Diploma in Cataract and Laser Refractive surgery at the University of Sydney to refine his experience.

As part of his vitreoretinal training, he is able to address diseases affecting the back of the eye (vitreous, retina) such as retinal detachments, macular holes, epiretinal membranes and diabetic retinopathy. As a vitreoretinal surgeon, he is able to access the back of the eye safely, meaning he can truly deal with complex cataract cases – this is when complications arise from routine cataract surgery or trauma, when the lens is dislocated or has fallen into the back of the eye, requiring retrieval and a secondary implant. Any iris defect can also be repaired.

As he deals with routine cataract cases on a day to day basis also, you can rest assured your comfort, safety and final outcome is his top priority. Medical retina wise, Dr. Lam treats macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion, diabetes and a spectrum of infectious and non-infectious uveitis. As well as glaucoma and pterygium, Dr. Lam also sees patients with general ophthalmological conditions.

Dr. Lam’s personal mantra is to always treat his patients how he would want his own family members to be treated. He is bilingual and consults in English and Mandarin.

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Dr Sam Heshmat

Medical Director of Neurology

Dr. Sam Heshmat MD, MPH, FRACP is the Director of the Neurology Department at Gold Coast University Hospital. He is also the Lead Clinician for the Neuromodulation Program at the hospital. His clinical expertise is particularly focused on movement disorders and Parkinson’s disease.

Having completed advanced neurology training in Queensland and prestigious fellowships at Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Dr. Heshmat maintains academic affiliations with Griffith University and the University of Queensland, where he is committed to both teaching and research. Presently, he leads a number of clinical trials as Principal Investigator, aiming to advance the understanding and treatment of movement disorders.

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Dr Suzan Elharmeel

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility - IVF, Gynaecology

Dr. Suzan Elharmeel is a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with a passion for supporting women through every stage of life, particularly their fertility journey.

After completing her initial medical degree in Egypt, Dr. Elharmeel relocated to Australia and, by 2003, had completed her Australian training. She has since worked at leading hospitals across New South Wales and Queensland, including Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital, Gold Coast University Hospital, Westmead Hospital, and Prince of Wales Hospital.

Her services cover all aspects of pregnancy, from preconception care, fertility and IVF, to antenatal care for both low- and high-risk pregnancies. She conducts private deliveries at Pindara Private Hospital.

Dr. Elharmeel also provides comprehensive gynaecological care, including management of menstrual disorders, pelvic pain, endometriosis, laparoscopic surgery, pelvic organ prolapse, and incontinence, as well as cervical/pap smear abnormalities. She is a certified Colposcopist, ensuring high-quality colposcopy assessments.

As a mother of three, Dr. Elharmeel understands the expectations of women and their families during pregnancy. She prioritises patient-centred care, offering personalised treatment that respects both medical needs and lifestyle choices, and values patient education.

Dr. Elharmeel is a Senior Lecturer at Griffith University and a member of multiple professional associations, enabling her to remain up-to-date with the latest techniques, technologies, and best practices in women’s health.

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Dr Heshini Desilva

Pain Medicine, Rehabilitation

Dr. Heshini De Silva is a highly qualified Pain Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist with almost two decades of experience. She began her career as a senior clinical pharmacist in Australia and New Zealand before completing her medical degree at the University of Wollongong.

She specialised in Rehabilitation Medicine through the Australasian Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and completed her Pain Medicine Fellowship with the Australia New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. Her extensive experience spans public and private sectors, including Spinal Injuries Unit, Queensland Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service, Gold Coast University Hospital, and Gold Coast Private Hospital.

Dr. De Silva provides compassionate, patient-centred care in Pain Medicine and Rehabilitation, addressing conditions such as cancer pain, pelvic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and complex neuropathic pain. She collaborates closely with General Practitioners and multidisciplinary teams including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, and speech therapists to optimise patient outcomes. She accepts referrals for WorkCover, DVA, third-party, and self-funded patients.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Persistent pain management and rehabilitation

  • Cancer rehabilitation and pain management

  • Chronic pelvic pain management

  • Reconditioning following surgery and acute illness

  • Neurorehabilitation after stroke or traumatic brain injury

  • Rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions

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Dr. Himanshu Garg

Pulmonologist | Somnologist (Sleep Specialist) - 15 Years Experience

Dr. Himanshu Garg is an experienced Respiratory, Critical Care & Sleep Disorders Physician, specialising in Asthma, COPD, Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Sleep Apnea, Respiratory Failure, Sepsis, and related conditions.

He trained extensively in Australia and was entrusted with establishing the Respiratory & Sleep Medicine services at Medanta – The Medicity, one of the largest facilities in the region. He is among the few physicians outside North America certified in Behavioural Sleep Medicine by the American Board of Sleep Medicine.

Dr. Garg is pioneering Sleep Medicine in Australia and the region, developing training and curriculum pathways. He established the first sleep lab in Nepal and founded the South East Asian Academy of Sleep Medicine.

He currently heads the Respiratory, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine service at W Partiksha Hospital and serves as Director at Respiratory and Sleep Cure Solutions, Gold Coast.

Education & Experience

  • MBBS: Dr. S.N. Medical College, Jodhpur, 2000

  • MD – Respiratory Medicine: SMS Medical College, Jaipur, 2003

  • FCCP: American College of Chest Physicians, 2008

  • CBSM (USA), FSM (Australia), RPSGT

  • Head – Respiratory & Sleep Medicine: Medanta – The Medicity

  • Head – Respiratory & Critical Care: Artemis Hospital & W Partiksha Hospital

  • Owner & Somnologist: Sleep Cure Solutions, 2011 – Present

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Dr Ravinder Batra

Interventional Cardiologist

DEGREES: MBBS, MD, DM, FRACP

Dr. Batra completed his medical, physician, and cardiology training at the University of Delhi, India in 1997, followed by a Fellowship in Electrophysiology at Maastricht, Netherlands, in 1999.

He has worked as an intervention cardiologist consultant in leading private hospitals in Delhi and at Birmingham City Hospital, England, and served as Assistant Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital, University of Delhi, before relocating to Gold Coast Hospital in 2006.

At Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH), Dr. Batra has developed the cardiology services to their current standard and is the leading interventionist, consistently performing the highest number of interventions. He is also the Clinical Director of the Catheter Laboratory at GCUH.

Dr. Batra performs complex stenting procedures, contributes to the Primary PCI program, and established the EP, ablation, AICD, and heart failure pacing programs at GCUH. He is recognised as an astute clinician, with multiple publications and presentations at national and international meetings. He is also Associate Professor of Cardiology at Griffith University.

His main areas of interest include general cardiology, ischemic heart disease, coronary interventions, and heart failure. He is available for consultations at TrueCare Cardiology, Hope Island and Pimpama.

Areas of Specialty

  • Coronary Angiography

  • Complex Coronary Intervention & Stenting

  • Cardiac Defibrillators

  • Pacemaker

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Dr. Shahid Hafeez

Consultant Cardiologist

Degrees: MBBS, MD, FCPS (Medicine), FCPS (Cardiology), FRACP, FCSANZ, FESC, FACC

Dr. Shahid Hafeez is a senior consultant cardiologist with over a decade of experience in clinical cardiology. He has practised extensively in Australia at major teaching hospitals in Adelaide and Brisbane.

Qualifications:

  • FRACP in Cardiology, Adelaide

  • Echocardiography Fellowship, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane

  • Level B CTCA Specialist Accreditation

  • Dual Fellowships (FCPS) in Medicine and Cardiology, College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan

Areas of Specialty:

  • Coronary Artery Disease

  • Heart Failure

  • General Rhythm Disorders

  • Cardiac Imaging

  • Lipid Management

  • Preventive Cardiology

  • Hypertension

Dr. Hafeez specialises in clinical, diagnostic, and preventive cardiology.

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Dr. Venu Bhamidi

Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon | Director of Vascular GC

Dr. Venu Bhamidi (Bhamidipaty) completed Medical School in North Queensland and specialist Vascular Surgical training across Perth, Melbourne, Auckland, and Toronto, Canada. He served as a Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon at Auckland City Hospital and Senior Lecturer at the University of Auckland before relocating to the Gold Coast in 2020 as Director of Vascular Surgery for the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service.

Dr. Bhamidi’s practice covers all aspects of vascular surgery, including open and minimally invasive (endovascular) treatments for carotid, aortic, and limb vascular disease, as well as endovenous varicose vein treatment. His sub-specialty interests include complex endovascular treatment of aortic aneurysms and diabetic peripheral arterial disease & foot wounds.

He has a strong academic focus, with numerous publications, book chapters, and past service as Assistant Specialty Editor (Vascular Surgery) for the ANZ Journal of Surgery. Dr. Bhamidi has acted as an invited Proctor/Mentor in South East Asian hospitals and participated in multiple international registries and research trials.

He is committed to patient-centred, value-based healthcare. His main private consulting suites are located at Ground Floor, 181 Ashmore Road, Benowa, with operating rights at Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Private Hospital, and Pindara Private Hospital.

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Dr Pradeep Kakkadasam Ramaswamy

Gastroenterologist

Dr Pradeep Kakkadasam Ramaswamy is an Australian-based health professional. Pradeep is trained as a Gastroenterologist and practices in Southport.

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Dr Rohit Bansal

Geriatrician | MBBS, DNB (General Medicine), FRACP (Geriatric Medicine)

Dr. Rohit Bansal is a Consultant Geriatrician with over 20 years of clinical experience. He graduated in 2002 in India, completed postgraduate training in general medicine in 2007, and later moved to Australia to specialise in geriatrics. He completed the Royal Australasian College of Physicians geriatric medicine training program, earning his FRACP in 2017.

Dr. Bansal adopts a multidisciplinary approach for older adults, addressing all aspects of geriatric medicine and rehabilitation. He has a special interest in non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease dementia, collaborating with neurologists. He has published on topics including Behavioural Disturbances in Alzheimer’s Disease and Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Frailty, and presented at international conferences.

His vision includes establishing a rehabilitation unit at Robina Private Hospital to provide:

  • Neurological programs for degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s Disease

  • Restorative care programs for elderly patients with chronic conditions

  • Pre-conditioning and reconditioning programs prior to surgery

  • Falls prevention programs

Dr. Bansal is an active member of: ANZSGM, World Stroke Organization, International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society, and MDSANZ.

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Dr Arun Naik

Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery, Upper GI surgery

Dr. Arun Naik is a consultant surgeon specialising in colorectal surgery, practicing at Gold Coast University Hospital and Gold Coast Private Hospital.

He completed his MBBS and MS (General Surgery) in India, followed by advanced training (MCh, Magister Chirurgiae) in Surgical Oncology, gaining extensive experience in lower gastrointestinal and pelvic malignancy surgeries.

Dr. Naik earned his FRACS and completed fellowships in colorectal surgery at Gold Coast University Hospital and lower gastrointestinal cancer surgery at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne.

His primary area of interest is colorectal malignancies, with multiple research publications. He also performs colonoscopies, surgeries for inflammatory bowel disease, colonic diverticular disease, complex enterocutaneous fistulae, and proctological procedures.

Areas of Interest:

  • Colorectal cancers

  • Colonoscopies

  • Surgeries for inflammatory bowel disease & diverticular disease

  • Proctology: surgeries for haemorrhoids, fissure, and fistula

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Dr Shunil Sharma

Rheumatology

Dr Shunil Sharma is part of the Rheumatology team at Healthscope.

To ensure you receive the best possible treatment, our Rheumatology team are all carefully selected for their expertise and patient centred approach.

Dr Shunil Sharma is available to see patients at Gold Coast Private Hospital

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Dr Sonam Joshi

Internal Medicine | Rheumatology

Dr Sonam Joshi graduated from Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad and completed his basic medical training in the UK and then in Australia (Princess Alexandra Hospital).

Dr Joshi obtained Fellowships in Rheumatology and Internal medicine after further training in Townsville Hospital & Gold Coast University Hospital. He also has a Masters in Sports Medicine from University of Qld. 

Dr Joshi is interested in all aspects of General Rheumatology. His area of interest includes Inflammatory Arthritis/Spondyloarthritis/Gout.

He enjoys spending time exploring the Gold Coast region with his family.

Specialities:

  • Rheumatology

  • Internal Medicine

  • Sports Medicine

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Dr Aneel Nihal

Consultant Orthopaedic & Foot & Ankle Surgeon | MBBS, FRCS (Tr & Ortho), FRACS (Ortho)

Dr. Aneel Nihal is a Consultant Orthopaedic and Foot & Ankle Surgeon with extensive UK and international training. He joined Logan Hospital and Gold Coast Hospital, Southport in 2007 and earned his FRACS (Ortho) in 2010.

He is an Associate Professor at Griffith University and senior faculty for the ASSET Surgical Course, actively involved in training medical students and junior doctors.

Current Roles:

  • Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Pindara Private Hospital

  • Visiting Surgeon, Gold Coast Private, John Flynn, and Southport Private Hospitals

Memberships: BOA, AOFAS, RCSEd, AOA, GCMA, RACS, AMAQ

Dr. Nihal specialises in orthopaedic surgery, trauma, and foot & ankle surgery, providing expert care for elective and complex procedures.

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Dr Sagar Ramani

MBBS MRCP (UK) FRCR (UK) FRANZCR, Radiation Oncologist, Regional Medical Director – Gold Coast

Dr. Sagar Ramani is a specialist Clinical Oncologist based on the Gold Coast, consulting at GenesisCare Tugun and Southport.

He qualified in Chennai, India (1997), completed postgraduate Internal Medicine training (MRCP 2002) and specialist Clinical Oncology training (FRCR 2007) in the UK, with further postgraduate studies in Oncology from Liverpool University. Dr. Ramani practised at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre (2008–2011) before moving to Australia, achieving FRANZCR in 2013.

His clinical interests include genitourinary, lung, breast, colorectal, and gastrointestinal cancers, and he has experience in combined modality treatments. He has held key leadership and training roles including Chair of SABR Lung Program, Director of Training for RANZCR Gold Coast registrars, and Regional Medical Director for GenesisCare Gold Coast.

Dr. Ramani holds visiting rights at John Flynn Private Hospital, Pindara Private Hospital, and Gold Coast Private Hospital, and participates in multidisciplinary meetings across the Gold Coast and Tweed.

Professional Memberships: RANZCR, RCR (UK), ASTRO, TROG

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Dr Sumit Lumba

Medical Oncologist | MBBS, FRACP

Dr. Sumit Lumba is a Medical Oncologist at Pindara Private Hospital, Gold Coast, managing patients across all tumour groups with a focus on:

  • Gastrointestinal cancers (colorectal, pancreas, stomach)

  • Genitourinary cancers (prostate, renal, bladder)

  • Breast and lung cancers

He completed general physician training at Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, followed by medical oncology training at Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, and earned FRACP. Dr. Lumba also completed a clinical research fellowship at Liverpool Hospital/Ingham Research Institute, UNSW.

He holds an academic appointment as Senior Lecturer at Griffith University and is a Principal Investigator for numerous clinical trials (Phase 1–3) at John Flynn Private Hospital and Tweed Hospitals, focusing on immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Dr. Lumba is currently completing a Masters in Clinical Trials and Research at the University of Sydney.

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Dr Sandeep Chand

Consultant Psychiatrist MBBS, MRCPsych, FRANZCP

Dr. Sandeep Chand is a Consultant Psychiatrist based at 129 Olsen Avenue, Labrador QLD 4215. He holds an MBBS from Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, India, is a Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych), and a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP).

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Chand provides comprehensive psychiatric care for adults, specialising in anxiety, mood, psychotic, and substance use disorders. He offers evidence-based therapies tailored to individual patient needs and is fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, enabling him to support patients from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Chand is committed to improving quality of life through compassionate, holistic psychiatric care.

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Dr Viral Upadhyay

Neurologist | MBBS, FRACP

Dr. Viral Upadhyay is an Australian-trained Neurologist based at Gold Coast University Hospital. He completed a Bachelor of Exercise Science (2007) and MBBS (2011) at Griffith University, Gold Coast.

Dr. Upadhyay undertook basic physician training at Gold Coast University Hospital, followed by advanced neurology training in Sydney at multiple tertiary hospitals. He completed a fellowship in Movement Disorders and Neuromuscular Medicine at Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital (RBWH) in 2020 and attained FRACP the same year. He subsequently served as a staff specialist at RBWH before returning to the Gold Coast.

He is actively involved in teaching and research, holding Senior Lecturer positions at Griffith University and the University of Queensland, and serves as an investigator for multiple clinical trials at Gold Coast University Hospital.

Special Interests:

  • Botulinum toxin injections

  • Nerve Conduction Studies / Electromyography

  • Chronic Migraine

  • Parkinson’s Disease

  • Neuromuscular Diseases

  • Epilepsy

  • Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

  • Spasticity

Qualifications:

  • BExSc, Griffith University, 2007

  • MBBS, Griffith University, 2011

  • FRACP, 2020

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Dr Sanjeev Gupta

Consultant Paediatrician

Dr. Sanjeev Gupta has been dedicated to paediatric care for over 20 years. After completing his training in India, Dr. Gupta moved to the UK, where he gained invaluable experience in some of the world’s leading paediatric and neonatal units, including St. Mary’s Hospital, Royal Brompton Hospital (Paediatric Cardiac and Respiratory ICU), and Northwick Park Hospital.

In 2007, Dr. Gupta relocated to Australia, where he further advanced his expertise by completing a fellowship in General Paediatrics through the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. His career in Australia has seen him work in several prestigious institutions, including the Royal Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, Gold Coast University Hospital, Tweed Hospital, and Murwillumbah Hospital.

Dr. Gupta has extensive experience, ranging from managing newborns who require assistance at birth to supporting adolescents with developmental and behavioural issues. Throughout his career, he has managed a broad spectrum of paediatric conditions, making him well-equipped to cater to a wide range of child health needs. Known for his calm and composed nature, Dr. Gupta is consistently praised for his thoroughness and dedication to his patients. Currently, he serves as a Consultant Paediatrician at John Flynn Private Hospital and continues to contribute to the field through his involvement in medical education and mentoring of medical students.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Gupta enjoys travelling and exploring new places. He is also an adventure enthusiast who loves engaging in various adventure sports. Above all, he cherishes spending quality time with his family.

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Dr Ramesh Damodaran Prabha

General Surgery, Laparoscopic Surgery, Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery

Dr. Ramesh Damodaran Prabha is a general surgeon with subspecialty training in liver, pancreas, biliary, and bariatric surgery. He completed general surgery training in Perth, followed by a regional general surgery fellowship and three years of subspecialty training in Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary surgery at Royal Northshore Hospital, Gold Coast University Hospital, and Liverpool Hospital, Sydney. He also trained at the world-renowned Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Royal Liverpool Hospital, UK.

He has a special interest in minimally invasive surgery, holding a Masters in Minimally Invasive Surgery, and is GESA accredited for upper and lower endoscopies. Dr. Prabha is an ASSET and ATLS instructor and is passionate about teaching medical students and surgical trainees.

Dr. Prabha practices as a Consultant Surgeon at Gold Coast University Hospital and collaborates closely with general practitioners to ensure the best patient care.

Expertise:

  • General, Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary, and Bariatric Surgery

Areas of Interest:

  • Laparoscopic & Open General Surgery & Upper GI Conditions

  • Liver, Pancreas, Bile Duct Cancer

  • Bariatric Surgery (Sleeve, Bypass)

  • Hiatus Hernia & Reflux Disease

  • Hernia, Gallbladder

  • Skin Lesions

  • Gastrointestinal Malignancies

  • Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy

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Dr. Prakash Appanna

General Medical Practitioner

MBChB, FRACGP, Diploma in Sports Medicine, Diploma in Advanced Skin Cancer Surgery

Dr Prakash Appanna completed his medical degree at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, before relocating to New Zealand and later to Australia. With over 35 years of experience in general practice, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise to his patients.

He holds Fellowships from both the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Dr Appanna has undertaken advanced training in Sports Medicine in New Zealand and in Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in Australia.

In addition to his general practice, Dr Appanna works at the Gold Coast Melanoma Clinic in Coolangatta, where he provides secondary care skin cancer services and performs complex procedures referred by other GPs.

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Dr. Peter Tracey

Urological Surgeon & Robotic Surgery Specialist


 MBBS, FRACS (Urology), MPhil (University of Queensland)
 Director of Urology, Gold Coast University Hospital

Dr Peter Tracey was born and raised on the Gold Coast and graduated in Medicine from the University of Queensland in 1998. He obtained his Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Urology in 2009 and was awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in 2006 for his research on cellular immunotherapy for prostate cancer.

Following his Urology training in Queensland, Dr Tracey completed a 20-month uro-oncology fellowship in London at Charing Cross Hospital and University College Hospital, where he advanced his expertise in cancer and robotic surgery.

Since returning to the Gold Coast in 2011, Dr Tracey has held a Visiting Medical Officer position at the Gold Coast University Hospital and operates a thriving private practice. He performed the first laparoscopic pyeloplasty and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy at GCUH and pioneered the robotic surgical program at Gold Coast Private Hospital, where he conducted the first robotic kidney, prostate, and bladder surgeries.

Dr Tracey has a subspecialty focus on renal cancer management, with a strong emphasis on kidney-preserving techniques. His expertise also extends to reconstructive surgery, incontinence, and dysfunctional voiding. He remains the only urologist on the Gold Coast performing urodynamics and is uniquely skilled in advanced incontinence treatments, including intravesical Botox therapy, sacral neuromodulator insertion, and fascial sling procedures. Additionally, he is among the few Australian surgeons performing robotic sacrocolpopexy for complex pelvic organ prolapse.

As a DaVinci and Medtronic proctor, Dr Tracey trains other surgeons in robotic surgery and sacral neuromodulator implantation. Beyond his subspecialties, he also manages general urological conditions, including urinary stone disease, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer.

Dr Tracey currently serves as Director of Urology at the Gold Coast University Hospital and sits on the Medical Advisory Committee at Pindara Hospital.

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Dr. Rohan Rao

General Practitioner

MBBS, MRCGP (UK), FRACGP (Australia)

Dr Rohan Rao is a highly experienced General Practitioner based at Keperra Medical Centre, Queensland. With a holistic and patient-centred approach, he provides comprehensive medical care tailored to each individual’s needs.

Dr Rao earned his MBBS in 2004 and completed his General Practice training in Lancaster, England. He holds memberships with both the Royal College of General Practitioners (MRCGP) in the UK and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP), reflecting his extensive training and experience across two healthcare systems.

His clinical interests include ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care — particularly ear microsuction for wax removal and infection management — as well as mental health, cardiovascular medicine, geriatric care, and medicinal cannabis therapies. Dr. Rao combines evidence-based medicine with a compassionate, family-oriented philosophy of care.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Rao enjoys spending time with his family, playing cricket, exploring local food and wine, and enjoying the Queensland lifestyle.

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Dr. Casey Going

General Practitioner | Educator | Speaker

MBBS (UQ), MBA (AIB), FRACGP, Certificate in Management of Obesity (University of   Melbourne), Master of Medicine (USyd – Ongoing)

Dr Casey Going is a Queensland-based General Practitioner and graduate of the University of Queensland. He became a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) in 2022 and is currently completing a Master of Medicine at the University of Sydney, focusing on diabetes, metabolic medicine, and weight management.

With a strong interest in internal medicine, cardiology, and emergency medicine, Dr Going divides his time between the Condamine Medical Centre and St Andrew’s Hospital in the Darling Downs. In addition to his clinical work, he holds a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Institute of Business and a Certificate in the Management of Obesity from the University of Melbourne.

Dr Going is also deeply engaged in medical education. As a toastmaster and experienced public speaker, he regularly delivers lectures and workshops for GP registrars and fellow practitioners. In 2023, he began working with Business for Doctors, where he developed online workshops focused on MBS education, billing, and compliance for GP registrars.

Combining his medical expertise with his business acumen, Dr Going is passionate about improving the operational and financial sustainability of general practice for both doctors and patients.

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