PHYSIOLIFE - Key Persons


Adrian Benne

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist / Social Media and Marketing / Junior Vice President
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. Adrian graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Doctor of Physiotherapy after completing his Bachelor of Biomedical science at La Trobe. His desire to study physiotherapy was fuelled at a young age by various visits to the local physio clinic to mend his glass ankles following numerous basketball and football related injuries. During his studies he treated patients of all ages across a variety of hospital and private practice settings, including the Austin Hospital, Northeast Health (Wangaratta) and The Royal Children's Hospital. Towards the end of his degree he was lucky enough to work for a month in a fast-paced private practice in Niseko, Japan where he gained valuable insight into the management of acute snow sport injuries, subsequently developing a keen interest in knee and ankle injury diagnosis and management. When treating, Adrian likes to provide a holistic approach, utilising hands-on therapy, education, and exercise prescriptions, to tailor each treatment session to the client's goals. In his spare time you can find Adrian behind his drum kit, cooking surprisingly authentic Japanese and American meals, and planning his next snowboarding trip. Adrian consults from Bulleen and Heidelberg.

Alexi Longinidis-Florez

Job Titles:
  • Director ( Bulleen ) / Senior Physiotherapist
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. Alexi graduated from Latrobe University with a Master's degree of Physiotherapy Practice after the completion of a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences (majoring in Human Anatomy and Physiology). Whilst studying at university, he worked as a Personal Trainer at a variety of gyms and private facilities. Alexi has always been involved in competitive sports from a young age stemming from a familial history in professional weight lifting and Greco-Roman wrestling. He has a major interest in combat sports such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai Kick boxing and Western boxing, as well as body-weight orientated sports such as gymnastics and parkour. His professional interests involve sports injury rehabilitation, exercise prescription, movement and mobility training as well as manipulative and manual therapy treatment modalities for specific injuries. Personally, Alexi regularly enjoys writing music in his spare time, whilst occasionally playing gigs across bars in Melbourne both as a solo artist and with his band. Alexi has worked with a number of sporting clubs including:

Alison Loft

Job Titles:
  • Allied Health Assistant / Administration
Alison came to PhysioLife in 2018 after graduating from Melbourne Institute of Massage Therapy with a Diploma of Remedial Massage in 2016. Prior to this Alison was a kindergarten teacher whilst during became a mother of two of her own. In a previous life, while spending time as a full time athlete, Alison developed a passion and understanding of both massage and physio. She credits the help of therapists for being able to compete at such a high level continuously.

Carolyn Merritt

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist / McKenzie Therapist / Clinical Pilates / GLA
Carolyn has over 33 years of experience in Physiotherapy, including general hospital, private hospital and private practice. She was the owner / Director of Merritt Physiotherapy & Pilates which merged with the PhysioLife group in May 2018. She has a special interest in treating back and neck pain, chronic pain, arthritis and rheumatology conditions as well as dysautonomia. As a mother of 4 boys, Carolyn also enjoys helping other mothers navigate the pathway of post baby exercise especially when complicated by a musculoskeletal condition. Carolyn has experience in a wide range of manual techniques and dry needling as well as being a Credentialed McKenzie therapist and certified in Clinical Pilates (DMA- MBCT trained ). She is also trained in the GLA:D program (an education and exercise program for hip and knee osteoarthritis). Carolyn is committed to helping patients to understand what they can do to assist in their recovery and prevent reoccurrence. In her spare time, Carolyn enjoys music - both live gigs and singing, and is particularly enjoying the ability to travel now that the kids are grown and she is no longer restricted by being a clinic owner! Carolyn consults exclusively from the Alphington clinic.

Christine Talevski

Job Titles:
  • Administration / Business Manager
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. Christine had been a very long term patient with PhysioLife before joining the team at PhysioLife in December 2020. Funnily enough, she came in for treatement on her shoulder one day, and walked out as PhysioLife's newest Receptionist/Business Manager. Christine has an outgoing personalty and enjoys having a conversation with all our patients.

Ebru Efe

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist
Ebru graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Doctor of Physiotherapy after completing a Bachelor of Science. Growing up in Melbourne playing soccer, injuries to herself and her teammates fuelled a passion to pursue a career in physiotherapy. She enjoys helping athletes young and old in overcoming their personal challenges. Ebru holds an interest in soccer and running athletes, adolescents and the management of hip & knee injuries. Alongside her work in private practice, Ebru has previously spent time with the Melbourne Victory Womens & Youth teams and the Football Victoria Youth Development Programs. She currently works at Essendon Football Club as the VFLW Physiotherapist. Away from work, Ebru keeps busy playing soccer for Melbourne University Soccer Club, running the Yarra river trails and planning her next travel adventure.

James Telford

Job Titles:
  • Director / Senior Physiotherapist
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. James graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2011. James' professional interests include treatment of sporting injuries and other musculoskeletal conditions, migraines and general aches and pains. Utilizing a wide range of biomechanical assessment techniques to diagnose musculoskeletal disorders / diseases hands on manual therapy, exercise programs and massage as well as some alternative therapies including taping and dry needling to assist patients recover and achieve their goals. James has worked with a number of the local sporting clubs in the area including;

Joy Stambulic

Job Titles:
  • Administration
Joy was a former patient of PhysioLife, coming in for treatment over the course of a few years for various sporting injuries. After years of an administrative role in financial services, she decided to change direction and went back to study, recently completing a medical administration course. Joy was asked to come join the team in December 2021 and has not looked back, loving the warm, friendly environment and enjoying her new PhysioLife family!

Lauren Wheatley

Job Titles:
  • Accounts Manager
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Laurence Schubert

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist / Clinical Pilates / Pilates Instructor
As of March 2021, Laurence has currently taken a position in Alice Springs to further increase his experience and scope of practice. Watch this space for his return in (hopefully) the not too distant future. We are looking forward to many updates about his experience working in the NT! Laurence graduated at La Trobe university with a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Physiotherapy Practice. Laurence was born and bred locally in Rosanna/Macleod and currently works as a Pilates instructor at the Macleod YMCA. With an interest in biomechanical assessment, Laurence has a passion for sports related injuries, rehabilitation, and strength and conditioning. As a Qualified DMA Clinical Pilates instructor, Laurence takes one on one or small group Clinical Pilates sessions at our Alphington clinic. Laurence is currently the physiotherapist for Heidelberg United Soccer Club women's team. Laurence has a strong sports background, most notably Football (AFL) and athletics as well as being a qualified personal trainer. In his spare time he enjoys reading and journaling. PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Len Giles

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. As of 2021 Len can now be found consulting exclusively on the Mornington Peninsula at Southcoast Physiotherapy in Rosebud. Len remains our affiliate and hands on the Mornington Peninsula. He still sees many of our holidaying patients as well as those long term faithfuls that don't mind a day trip to see the great man! Len's new profile can be found at southcoastphysiotherapy.com

Libby Gracias

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist
Libby graduated from Melbourne University with a Doctor of Physiotherapy after completing a Bachelor of Science. She is extremely passionate about helping all of her clients live healthier lives and be the best versions of themselves. Growing up as a competitive netballer Libby's passion for physio came from spending many weeks in rehab/on the side-lines with injuries and she loves helping people get back to what they love doing. Libby enjoys working with individuals of all ages and health conditions and has a particular interest in neck and back pain, knee injuries, osteoarthritis, and sporting injuries. She has previously worked with a VAFA football club and was most recently practicing at a Sports Medicine clinic in the Western Suburbs. In her time working, Libby has gained valuable experience in hydrotherapy, Clinical Pilates and with a wide variety of sporting injuries. She likes utilising a holistic approach to physio which includes a combination of hands-on therapy, education and exercise all tailored to each client. Outside of work, Libby loves exploring new cafes and restaurants, boxing and hiking and cheering on the mighty Tigers at the MCG. PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Lynne Kruger

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist
For over 25 years Lynne has been delivering personalised Physiotherapy to her clients. With a warm and holistic approach, she works to establish a diagnosis and appropriate management plan. She has worked within a variety of healthcare settings, from regional and orthopaedic hospitals, a neurology clinic in the UK, a Clinical Pilates Studio and several private practices. After undertaking further study in Clinical Pilates, Lynne became a founding director of a successful purpose-built clinical pilates studio in Cheltenham. Whilst Lynne works with all musculoskeletal conditions across all ages, she particularly enjoys working with complex presentations. She values the importance of a thorough assessment, recognising that the mind-body connection, general health issues, lifestyle factors, habits, and beliefs can all shape a person's current experience. Her other interest areas are neck pain; low back, pelvic and hip pain; pre and post-natal care, and patients with genetic and autoimmune disorders. She uses a variety of manual therapy techniques, taping, dry needling, and exercise prescription to deliver great results for her clients. Lynne will take the time to educate her clients, ensuring they understand their problem. She is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, and has been a treating physiotherapist on several published clinical trials. Lynne's belief is that excellent outcomes comes from a comprehensive approach, and her goal is to deliver this with genuine care and compassion. In her spare time Lynne is a taxi to 2 sports-obsessed teenagers, volunteers for the local netball club and can be found walking the Yarra's trails for some solace!

Marcus Kong

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist
Marcus graduated from Latrobe University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Master of Physiotherapy Practice. During his training, Marcus has gained rehabilitation experience in both the hospital and private practice setting, including Box Hill Hospital, Peter James Centre, Maroondah Hospital, and Wantirna Hospital, and fortunate enough to gain international experience in a Parkinson's rehabilitation hospital in Vicenza, Italy. Outside of university, Marcus has gained sporting experience working as a physiotherapist assistant with various footy teams including Uni Blues and Old Camberwell Football Club. Marcus is a passionate sportsperson and enjoys playing and watching Badminton, Basketball, Tennis, AFL and many more. Marcus is an international Badminton player and has been representing Australia since the age of 14. He was fortunate enough to travel around the world to represent Australia and was shortlisted for the recent 2022 Australian Commonwealth Games Team. Currently, Marcus is a part of the Badminton Victoria Senior State team and trains at MSAC. Marcus enjoys helping people to be the best version of themselves by incorporating a holistic individualised approach, utilising hands-on therapy, exercise prescription and education. Away from work, Marcus enjoys exercising with his friends, trying new cafes, and exploring new places. PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Matthew Ho

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist / Clinical Pilates / Director ( Alphington ) / GLA
Matt graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2011 after completing a Bachelor of Commerce at Melbourne University. He then went on to work at the Epworth Hospital as a physiotherapist in both acute and rehabilitation settings. PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Nicholas Musso

Job Titles:
  • Director ( Beechworth ) / Physiotherapist
PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury. Nick is a passionate music fan. While he listens to a broad range of music, he has a special place in his heart for ABBA.

Oskar Catoggio

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist
Oskar graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree following the completion of his Bachelor of Biomedical Science at La Trobe University. During his time as a physiotherapy student, he gained rehabilitation experience working alongside a wide variety of patients in both private practice and hospital environments, including Austin Health, Western Health, and Sport and Spinal Physio (Canberra). Although he grew up competing in AFL, cricket, and athletics, Oskar has been racing mountain bikes for over 10 years at both a state and national level. Through this, he developed a passion for fitness and performance training, and then subsequently injury management and rehabilitation after the numerous crashes which inherently occur with such a sport. Oskar is a strong believer in individually-tailored exercise-based rehabilitation to achieve the best outcomes possible, whether this is for improvements in strength or flexibility, overcoming an injury, or just general health and wellbeing. As well as cycling, Oskar actively enjoys weightlifting, bouldering, and getting out for a kick of the footy. In his spare time he endeavours to be out and about in nature, whether that be camping, hiking, 4-wheel driving, or fishing (unsuccessfully most of the time). PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.

Peter Karakoussis

Job Titles:
  • Physiotherapist
  • Senior Physiotherapist
Peter graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree following the completion of his Bachelor of Science, with majors in Anatomy & Physiology. Whilst studying, Peter was an avid soccer player and ran return to sport & rehabilitation groups at his local soccer club. He has always been involved in sporting circles from a young age, being a keen soccer player, swimmer & golfer. Peter has worked as a physiotherapist in private practice and aged care, in addition to managing operational portfolios across residential & community sectors. His clinical interests are post-operative ACL knee reconstructions (from his own experience), tendon injuries & rehabilitation.

Rachel Crosbee

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist
Rachel trained at Nottingham university and graduated in 1990. Initially she worked in the NHS for 4 years and then private practice in Nottingham followed by 10 years in Scotland before moving to Australia in 2014. Rachel joined the team in 2015 and consults in Heidelberg. Rachel loves the challenge of helping people of all ages and interests to resume their activities, the more complex the challenge the better. Special interests include injuries in children, the sporting shoulder and headaches. Rachel has a wide repertoire of techniques including mobilization, exercise prescription, dry needling and fascial release. Education and explanation are an important part of Rachels treatments and you can be assured of 100% individual attention and treatment. Rachel's passion is the sport of Canoe slalom. She competed for Great Britain in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics and had success with medals at world cup and world Championships, now Rachel is often seen on the Yarra as a coach now her 2 children are competing. Rachel is also working with paddle Australia to devise a screening tool for Canoe Slalom. Canoeing is very much in the blood; Rachel's niece is Australian superstar Jessica Fox.

Rebecca Vanderjagt

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist

Stefan Heintjes

Job Titles:
  • Senior Physiotherapist
Stefan graduated from Utrecht University, The Netherlands in 2011. His genuine passion and desire to help other people paired with an interest in biology resulted in taking on a physiotherapy degree. After graduating he has worked in a variety of clinics and settings across the world. Starting out in a small Dutch country town, via the Caribbean and Kathmandu to Berlin. This is where he met his partner Jess and explains how he eventually ended up in North-East Victoria. Stefan has a broad range of experience in private practice as well as in disability care. His main interests are paediatrics, sports injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, knee and hip injuries, neck and low back pain as well as working with people with disabilities. After completing a thorough assessment, Stefan utilises tailored exercise programs, hands-on therapy and education to provide an individualised approach to address his patient's goals, whether this be returning to sport, work or daily life pain-free. In his free time, he enjoys going for a walk in the bush with his dog Ziggy, tinkering in his shed, cooking exotic meals while dreaming of travelling the parts of the world he hasn't seen yet. He likes to go for a swim in summer and enjoys hitting the slopes in winter. PhysioLife is a long established, family friendly and patient focused clinic with a passion for helping people recover from any ailment or injury.