HULC

About Us

The HULC Team

We have over 150 years of combined experience in the area of hand therapy in Western Australia.

Founded in 2004, the Hand & Upper Limb Centre provides best practice therapy, research, support and training for all things hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. 

Our highly qualified and experienced therapists work closely with a variety of health professionals, including general practitioners, surgeons and other allied health professionals, to develop the most suitable program for your injury or condition.

All therapists participate in regular education and professional development to ensure the services we offer are innovative and evidence-based.  Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for our patients.

Our mission

Our mission is to provide an exceptional, evidence based hand, wrist and upper limb therapy service. We are dedicated to restoring function, reducing pain and getting people back to doing what they love as quickly as possible.

Meet the team

Leadership Team

Anita Bourton

Business Manager

Anita is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist and the Business Manager at HULC. With over 20 years in hand therapy across Australia and overseas, she brings a deep understanding of patient care and clinic operations. Anita is currently completing her MBA and is passionate about driving innovation in allied health, mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals, and ensuring HULC continues to lead in quality care. Outside of work, she enjoys running, spending time with her family, and exploring new destinations through travel.

Anne Marie De Luca

Administration Manager

Anne Marie oversees administrative operations across HULC, ensuring our clinics run smoothly and patients have a positive experience. With over 25 years in leadership and two decades in health, she brings a wealth of expertise to the team. Her primary goal is to guarantee that patients receive the best experience from start to finish. She is a dedicated family person, and enjoys dancing, time at the beach, and supporting HeartKids WA through her volunteer work on the Gala Ball Committee.

Antony Smithson

Chief Executive Officer

Antony is HULC’s CEO. A Chartered Accountant with a background in physics and computer science, he brings over 30 years of senior leadership experience across a range of industries, including healthcare, emergency services, and corporate partnerships. Antony has led complex contract negotiations, including the emergency ambulance services agreement with the WA State Government. He is passionate about driving innovation, building high-performing teams, and delivering patient-centred healthcare solutions.

Chantelle Sorgiovanni

Primary Health Coordinator

Chantelle is an experienced Hand Therapist who has been with HULC since 2014. Over the years, she has worked closely with orthopaedic and plastic surgeons, gaining advanced skills in managing complex wrist and nerve injuries. Her time in Melbourne included treating professional athletes and patients with complex brachial plexus injuries. Chantelle is committed to delivering evidence-based, results-focused care. Outside of work, she enjoys weightlifting, travel, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Jess De Jong

Clinical Coordinator

Jess graduated in 2014 from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Occupational Therapy, and joined the HULC team in 2015.Jess’s interest in hand and upper limb rehabilitation followed a student placement in the state trauma unit of Royal Perth Hospital.Jess is involved in clinical based research and is the site lead at Bethesda.Jess is an active member of the hand therapy community and was a subcommittee member of the state branch of the Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA) from 2016 – 2021. Jess is an accredited hand therapist as awarded by the AHTA.

Yan Li

Finance Manager

Yan is HULC’s Finance Manager and a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in financial management within the healthcare sector. She oversees budgeting, compliance, and operational finance, playing a key role in maintaining the organisation’s financial stability. Yan is known for her precision, analytical thinking, and collaborative approach. She works closely with the administrative team to support efficient service delivery and long-term sustainability.

Seniors

Yvette Ladner

Senior Occupational Therapist

Yvette is an Accredited Hand Therapist who works across our Murdoch and Rockingham clinics. Originally from rural Queensland, she has worked in various regional locations in Queensland and Tasmania. Yvette enjoys wound care and helping patients to regain function after injury. When Yvette is not working, she can be found hiking, gardening, listening to music, adventuring on road trips, spending time with family, or crafting.

Dana Spencer

Senior Occupational Therapist/Clinical Coordinator

Dana is a Senior Occupational Therapist based at our Joondalup clinic. Since graduating from Curtin University with Honours, she has worked across many of HULC’s metro and South West locations, gaining a deep understanding of hand and upper limb conditions. Dana has a particular interest in managing finger fractures and wrist ligament injuries and is highly skilled in custom splint fabrication. She is committed to ongoing professional development and regularly attends Australian Hand Therapy Association Interest Group meetings and courses. Outside of work, Dana loves travelling, trying new restaurants, watching movies, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lola.

Deearna Bakker

Senior Occupational Therapist/Research Coordinator

Deearna is a Senior Occupational Therapist and Accredited Hand Therapist who also leads research initiatives at HULC. She mentors therapists and honours students while pursuing her PhD, focusing on the role of advanced scope hand therapy practitioners in emergency care, in collaboration with Curtin University and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. Her academic leadership complements her clinical work, bringing a research-based approach to patient care.

Heather Scott

Senior Occupational Therapist

Heather completed her Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) at Curtin University and joined HULC in 2018. She has worked across our Bunbury and Busselton clinics, as well as hand therapy clinics in Cairns and Darwin. She enjoys treating complex cases and has a special interest in trauma and pain management. In her spare time, Heather enjoys water polo, pole fitness, hiking, veggie gardening and baking sourdough.

Jasmyn Camerer

Senior Occupational Therapist

Lucy Barrett

Senior Occupational Therapist

Lucy is a Senior Hand Therapist at our Claremont clinic with experience across public hospitals and private practice in Darwin, Melbourne, and Perth. She works with both adult and paediatric patients and has a special interest in complex multi-trauma and fracture rehabilitation. Lucy is committed to delivering personalised care that helps patients achieve optimal recovery and regain independence. Her calm, supportive manner helps put patients at ease during what can be a challenging time.

Victoria Bray

Senior Occupational Therapist/South West Coordinator

Victoria is a Senior Hand Therapist and our South West Coordinator. An Accredited Hand Therapist, she has been with HULC for over 10 years and has a special interest in assessing and managing undiagnosed wrist pain and finger-based sports injuries. Since relocating to the South West, she has played a key role in expanding our clinics in Bunbury, Vasse, and Margaret River. Outside of work, Victoria loves spending time with her young family, enjoying the natural beauty the South West has to offer.

Emily Sevier

Senior Occupational Therapist

Emily graduated from Edith Cowan University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Emily became passionate about hand therapy during her two practical placements as a student in private practice hand therapy and at Fremantle Hospital. After finishing her degree, Emily continued to study and volunteer at Brightwater Care Group in neurology and hand therapy, before joining HULC in 2015.Emily works at HULC’s Subiaco and Claremont clinics, runs Final Assessment clinics with our principle surgeon and is a part of the Dupuytrens clinic at HULC. Emily is an active member of the hand therapy community and regularly attends state and national Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA) meetings and conferences, as well as Hand Interest Group Meetings (run through the WA Occupational Therapy Association). Emily is an Associate Member of the Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA) and is currently working towards her full membership.

Hand Therapists

Sophie Burns

Occupational Therapist

Sophie is an Occupational Therapist who loves helping patients regain function and confidence through personalised hand therapy. She enjoys learning more about upper limb anatomy and involving patients in their recovery process, to develop treatment plans that fit their individual goals and lifestyle. Outside of work, Sophie enjoys the gym, the beach, and spending time with her dog.

Anish Menon

Occupational Therapist

Anish began his journey with HULC as an Allied Health Assistant before transitioning to a full-time Hand Therapist upon graduating. He is known for his thoughtful, patient-centred approach and is committed to continuously improving outcomes for those in his care. Anish has a special interest in post-operative rehabilitation, wound and scar management, and enjoys seeing patients progress through their recovery. He is currently working toward his AHTA accreditation. Outside of work, Anish enjoys gardening, cooking, beach walks, home improvement projects and spending quality time with his partner.

Joshua Stringer

Occupational Therapist

Josh is an experienced therapist working across our Midland and Subiaco clinics. He is an associate member of the AHTA and is working toward accreditation. Josh supports junior staff and students and brings great enthusiasm to mentoring. Clinically, he is known for his calm, thorough approach and his ability to connect with patients of all ages. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, marathon training, camping, spending time with his wife, and being outdoors with their dogs Peggy and Monty.

Shahd Al Shadfan

Occupational Therapist

Shahd holds a Bachelor of Science (OT) with Honours and is an associate member of the AHTA. She joined HULC as a researcher, investigating the use of above versus below-elbow orthosis for TFCC repairs post-surgery, before transitioning into a therapist role. Shahd is passionate about upper limb rehabilitation, developing care plans that align with her patients’ goals, and the critical role of hands in daily life. She takes pride in helping patients regain independence. She is an associate member of the AHTA and is committed to continually growing her clinical skills. Outside of work, Shahd enjoys learning about different cultures and histories, staying active at the gym, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Tanya Cole

Occupational Therapist

Tanya is a Hand Therapist based in our Vasse clinic, with a special interest in wound care, scar management, and soft tissue treatment. She is deeply intrigued by the art and function of the human hand, not just for movement, but for creativity, nurturing, and self-expression. Originally from Perth, Tanya has called the South West home for over 15 years. She brings a calm, thoughtful approach to therapy and is passionate about helping patients achieve meaningful recovery. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, swimming, painting, and spending quality time with her family.

Aiden Marinovich

Occupational Therapist

Aiden is an Occupational Therapist working across our Murdoch and Claremont clinics. Prior to joining HULC, he worked in the disability sector, primarily supporting children within the NDIS framework. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) with Honours, with his research focusing on strength and interest-based programs for adolescents with autism. Aiden is particularly interested in upper limb sporting injuries and enjoys helping patients get back to their favourite activities. Outside of work, he enjoys AFL, tennis, fishing, and soccer.

Cassandra Di Carlo

Occupational Therapist

Cassandra is an Occupational Therapist based at our Subiaco and urgent care locations. She joined HULC in 2021 after gaining experience as a Paediatric Occupational Therapist. Cassandra provides specialised rehabilitation in post-surgical recovery, custom splinting, pain management and workplace injuries, and is currently working towards full AHTA membership. She has advanced training in fracture management, and expert care for sporting injuries, surgeries, and chronic condition rehabilitation. She is also actively involved in student mentoring and research. Outside of work, she enjoys Pilates, art, and exploring how the arts can support health and wellbeing.

Claire Miotti

Occupational Therapist

Claire is an experienced Hand Therapist who graduated with First Class Honours in Occupational Therapy from Curtin University in 2020. Since joining HULC, she has developed her expertise in hand therapy, working closely with both plastic and orthopaedic surgeons to provide collaborative, patient-centred care. Claire is an Associate Member of the Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA) and is working toward full accreditation. She has a particular interest in managing wrist injuries, fractures, sports-related injuries, and post-operative rehabilitation. Claire is also a member of the WA Occupational Therapy Association and is committed to ongoing professional development.

Claudia Gaynor

Occupational Therapist

Daniela Lasser

Occupational Therapist

Daniela is an Occupational Therapist based in our South West clinics. She graduated in Argentina in 2010 and has specialised in hand therapy ever since. Daniela completed the Hand Therapy Specialist Certification through the Argentine Association of Hand Surgery and the Chapter of Hand Therapists, deepening her expertise in upper limb rehabilitation. Since moving to Australia in 2022, Daniela has brought a warm, skilled approach to helping patients regain confidence and function. When she is not working, you can find her at the beach, enjoying the sun, swimming, or paddleboarding.

Emily Antonovich

Occupational Therapist

Evelyn Della Franca

Occupational Therapist

Evelyn is an Occupational Therapist working across our South West clinics. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) with First Class Honours from Curtin University. Evelyn’s passion for hand therapy began during her final-year placement at HULC, and she has since gained valuable experience in vocational rehabilitation, supporting injured workers on their return-to-work journey. This background has given her strong insight into the workers’ compensation system in WA and the broader healthcare network in Bunbury and surrounds. Evelyn is particularly interested in custom splinting and enjoys the creative blend of art and science involved in hand therapy. She is currently working toward her AHTA accreditation. Outside of work, Evelyn enjoys exploring new places, relaxing at the beach, and expressing her creativity through art and design.

Georgia Watson

Occupational Therapist

Georgia is a clinical therapist supporting patients across our Bethesda and Edgewater clinics. She has experience treating both acute and chronic upper limb injuries in adults and children. Georgia is passionate about person-centred care, with a focus on restoring strength and function so individuals can return to meaningful activities. She has a particular interest in managing wrist and hand injuries, ensuring tailored care to meet each patient’s unique needs.

Lauren Wonders

Occupational Therapist

Lauren is an experienced Occupational Therapist with a strong clinical background in acute care, having worked across major public hospitals in Sydney before moving into the specialised field of hand therapy. She has a particular interest in acute fracture management and atypical movement disorders, and is passionate about delivering individualised, evidence-based care. Lauren is known for her thoughtful approach and commitment to helping patients regain function and confidence in their recovery.

Renee Turco

Physiotherapist

Renee is a physiotherapist originally from Sydney, who has specialised in hand therapy since her university days. She spent several years working in a private hand therapy centre in Darwin before relocating to Perth. Renee has a keen interest in managing industrial crush injuries and enjoys the technical aspects of designing and fabricating mobilising splints. She is dedicated to providing patient-centred care in a supportive and empathetic environment. Outside of work, Renee enjoys running (even if she calls herself “average but stubborn”), and visiting national parks.

Rosanne Cross

Occupational Therapist

Rosanne is a dedicated therapist who works with patients at our Rockingham and Murdoch clinics. She specialises in upper limb rehabilitation following injury or surgery, tailoring care plans to restore strength and mobility following both acute and chronic injuries. With experience in disability support and administration, she brings a well-rounded approach to patient care. Rosanne completed her Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) at Edith Cowan University and is currently completing her mentorship to become an Accredited Hand Therapist. When she’s not at work, Rosanne enjoys spending time with her family and her miniature dachshund.

Tiarn Mahney

Occupational Therapist

Tiarn is an Occupational Therapist based in our Bunbury clinic. With a background in return-to-work rehabilitation, she brings a well-rounded understanding of injury management and recovery pathways. Tiarn has experience coordinating workplace programs and was recognised with the State Rehabilitation Provider Award for Best New Starter. She is passionate about helping patients achieve meaningful goals and return to the activities that matter most to them. Outside of work, Tiarn enjoys travelling, staying active through sport, and spending time with her dog Elsa.

Tinka Botha

Occupational Therapist

Tinka is an Occupational Therapist based at our Joondalup and Edgewater clinics. She graduated from Stellenbosch University in 2015 and went on to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Hand Therapy at the University of Pretoria. Tinka has worked in both public and private healthcare settings across South Africa and Australia, gaining experience in a wide range of hand and upper limb conditions. She is an associate member of the AHTA and is passionate about delivering evidence-based, individualised care. Outside of work, Tinka enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, and cycling.

Admin Team

Alison Van Der Spuy

Admin Assistant

Alison is an administrative assistant based at our Joondalup clinic. Originally from South Africa, she has a National Higher Diploma in Dental Technology and has worked in both South Africa and the UK before settling in Australia. Alison also spent over 14 years as a swimming instructor, including working with children and adults with special needs. Her calm, friendly nature and wide-ranging experience make her a valued team member. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s going for walks, camping, or relaxing at the beach.

Elkje Perry

Admin Assistant

Born and raised in the Kimberley, Elkje brings a wealth of healthcare experience and a deep connection to the community. She joined the HULC South West team in 2024 and is known for her approachable nature, strong work ethic, and leadership skills. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she coordinated an award-winning vaccination team, demonstrating her ability to lead under pressure. Outside of work, Elkje is a proud mum of two girls and a kelpie. She enjoys ocean swimming, running, exploring the outdoors, and discovering new places to eat.

Jacqueline Barns

Admin Assistant

Jacquie brings over 20 years of experience in administration and customer service, and plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operations of our clinics. She enjoys connecting with patients, sharing stories, and helping people feel comfortable during their visit. Her friendly nature and steady presence make her a much-loved member of the team. Outside of work, Jacquie loves camping with her family and running marathons.

Jennie Towner

Admin Assistant

Jennie provides administrative support at our Subiaco clinic and has been a valued part of the HULC team since 2016. With a varied background in private sector administration, she brings reliability, warmth, and professionalism to her role. Jennie enjoys working with the vibrant and professional team at HULC, and takes pride in supporting both patients and clinicians to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Joanne Smith

Admin Assistant

Jo has more than five years of health industry experience and a strong background in business operations. A former business owner, she’s highly skilled at managing busy clinics and delivering excellent patient service. Jo is dedicated to making a positive impact, both in the workplace and in her personal life. She is passionate about helping others and volunteers in her local community. She enjoys running, Pilates, and spending time outdoors.

Karen Herbert

Admin Assistant

Karen is part of our administration team and brings a wealth of experience across childcare, customer service, and medical administration. Originally from Scotland, she moved to Western Australia in 1988. After early roles in childcare and furniture retail administration, Karen transitioned to medical administration and joined HULC in 2023. She enjoys connecting with patients, solving problems, and continuing to grow her skills in a dynamic healthcare environment. Outside of work, Karen enjoys travelling (Japan being a favourite destination), Pilates, brisk walks, and supporting her children in their sporting activities, including AFL, hockey, and rowing.

Karis Roberts

Admin Assistant

Karis is a valued member of our administration team, working across the Murdoch and Claremont clinics. She has over three years’ experience in medical reception and holds a Diploma in Medical Business Administration. Karis is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science, bringing a strong interest in health and wellbeing to her role. She is known for her professionalism, positive attitude, and ability to make patients feel welcome from the moment they arrive.

Kim Patching

Admin Assistant

Kim is a valued member of our administration team, bringing over seven years of experience in administrative roles along with a background in sales and marketing. She’s known for her warm approach, strong attention to detail, and genuine passion for supporting patients throughout their care journey. Kim is often the first friendly face people see at our clinics and takes pride in creating a welcoming environment. Outside of work, Kim enjoys Pilates, swimming with her family, walking, and baking sweet treats!

Lauren Fimmano

Admin Assistant

Lauren supports our administration team in the South West, bringing a wealth of experience across various administrative roles. She holds certificates in business and is known for her approachable nature, efficiency, and strong attention to detail. Lauren enjoys building connections with patients and contributing to a smooth clinic experience. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her two children and making the most of the lifestyle and natural beauty the South West of WA has to offer.

Tina Kinsella

Admin Team Lead

Tina joined HULC in 2013 and now leads our administration team across multiple locations. With a background in healthcare administration since moving from Ireland in 2008, she brings a wealth of experience, excellent organisational skills, and a warm, supportive leadership style. Tina is passionate about creating a positive workplace culture and ensuring patients receive a smooth and professional experience. Outside of work, she enjoys beach walks with her two children and making the most of Perth’s coastal lifestyle.

Vanessa Flynn

Admin Assistant

Accounts Team

Michelle Hui

Accounts Officer

Michelle is an experienced Accounts Officer at HULC, specialising in daily payment processing, patient account management, and health fund claims. With a strong background in finance and customer service, she plays a key role in ensuring smooth and accurate financial operations. Michelle is known for her attention to detail, reliability, and high standards of customer service. She takes pride in providing a seamless experience for both patients and staff.

Michelle Illari

Bookkeeper

Michelle joined HULC after 16 years working in a large, publicly listed automotive group. She welcomed the shift to healthcare, finding it a rewarding and people-focused environment. Michelle brings strong organisational skills, a professional approach, and a warm, friendly manner to her role. She supports the team with a calm presence and is always ready to lend a hand.

Rhona McCue

Accounts Officer

Rhona is an experienced Accounts Officer with a strong background in accounts receivable and debt management within the healthcare sector. She is known for her attention to detail, professionalism, and patient-centred approach. Rhona manages credit control processes efficiently while maintaining positive relationships with patients, health funds, and Medicare. She takes pride in supporting the financial operations of the clinic and contributing to a smooth experience for both patients and staff.

Book an appointment​

Visit one of our dedicated therapists across our 13 convenient locations.