A Growing Passion For Osteopathy

by Ashleigh Stonehouse & Leoni Schreiber

We both had the amazing opportunity to observe and learn from the Central Mallee Health team. Starting our adventure, we set off to Swan Hill for the very first time, not knowing what to expect. Upon arrival, we were greeted and welcomed with our own bedrooms in the provided accomodation.

We felt so excited to start immersing ourselves in the team culture and to meet the wonderful clients at the clinic. What stood out the most, from the moment we entered the clinic environment, was the enthusiasm each clinician had when treating their clients, as well as their versatility. Watching Louise and Bailey alternate their treatments from inside the clinic rooms to engaging in rehab programs in the gym was truly amazing to experience.

One of the best days was the Outreach day in Birchip, where we were able to observe Megan’s skilled myotherapy hands looking after the locals. It was heartwarming to see the gratitude of the patients and how much the treatments are appreciated in a rural place where allied health is not as readily available as in a place like Melbourne.

We loved visiting the restaurants, bakeries, and shops where people knew each other’s names, and seeing how the practitioners seemed to know all about each individual patient. Everyone truly cared and seemed to be part of one big family, which was amazing to see.

It really opened our eyes to the possibilities of what an Osteopath could be and the different areas in which we can work. The program Louise has implemented and the passion she possesses is truly inspiring. From helping people with limited access to healthcare in rural towns to setting up internship programs like the one we experienced, she has shown a humbling element of giving back to the community. It highlighted the bigger picture of the impact an Osteopath can have, not just on individuals but on the community as a whole. It was an extraordinary experience that we will cherish and will inspire us to bring the same passion to the areas of Osteopathy we choose to pursue.

We will be back to help the Mallee community and thank Louise and the team for the amazing experience.