Our Team

Surgeon

Dr Dhan Thiruchelvam - Director and Principal Surgeon

Dr Dhan Thiruchelvam is a second generation Hunter Region doctor.

He is the youngest son of retired long time Maitland GP Dr T Thiruchelvam (Dr Chelvam) and the younger brother of ENT surgeon Dr Thya Thiruchelvam.

He was locally educated at Maitland High School before gaining a highly competitive academic entry position to Sydney Grammar School. He then went on to train at Sydney University Medical School. He undertook significant national (Sydney and Melbourne) and international (UK, USA, Japan) training with 3 separate highly competitive fellowship programs in Upper GI Surgery .

After many years of consultant practice at St Vincent’s Melbourne he returned home to spend time with family and enjoy the warmer weather!

He is driven to ensure the best outcome for his patients and delivering the highest standard of care.

Administration

Olivia Shakarian - Practice Manager

Olivia has always been passionate about supporting patients through their healthcare journey since graduating from the University of Sydney. Olivia is responsible for overseeing the needs of the practice and is always happy to chat to any of our patients. Though new to the Newcastle area she already loves exploring the local beaches and reading a good book at some of her favourite cafes.
Christie Pritchett - Business Manager

Christie is the Business Manager with over 10 years’ experience in administration. Christie is responsible for overseeing the business operation and coming up with proactive strategies to improve the practice.

When Christie moved to Newcastle almost 4 years ago with her family, she started a job within the health sector. She fell in love with supporting people and their health needs.

Christie enjoys spending time with her family, Pilates and camping.
Natasha Curry - Reception

Natasha is a driven and focused person who is committed to delivering the most optimal support to our patients. Natasha is currently studying nursing at university."I adore this role as you get to meet some great people and watch them meet their goals as well as work alongside an amazing team"
Briony Bubbins - Reception

Briony is experienced, has a positive attitude and a willingness to help patients through the whole journey with Newcastle Weight Loss Surgery. Briony enjoys reading, walks along the lake and exploring with her children. “I enjoy the variety in the role and that every day brings something new and different”.
Sinead McKenna - Reception

Sinead has a wealth of knowledge and prides herself on delivering excellent support and care to our patients. Sinead has a beautiful little girl! Enjoys family events and fitness.

“I love this role as I get to meet so many admirable people and watch them become so happy and proud of themselves”.
Rebekah Rogers - Reception

Rebekah is skilful and is driven to provide a 10 out of 10 service to our patients.

Rebekah is a big True Crime fan. She is excited to jump into a new investigation or tune in to one of ger favourite podcasts. Rebekah loves spending quality time with her little ones and taking them on fun adventures. She also enjoys a peaceful stroll by the beach or indulging in a little retail therapy.

“Having the opportunity to work with the highly skilled and professional team at NWLS has been a significant highlight of my professional journey”.

Dietitian

Dominic Baker - Dietitian

Dominic (Dom) passion is assisting our patient’s health and wellbeing, assisting them to achieve their nutritional goals. Dom makes sure he helps our patients to improve their nutrition knowledge and skills to assist them to make changes which are sustainable. Dom is an Accredited Practising Dietitian with Dietitians Australia. Graduated from university of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) in 2019. Has experience working with patients for weight management, diabetes and many gastrointestinal issues such as IBS.

Outside of the clinic I enjoy all aspects of health and fitness, a sports fanatic and taking my dog for regular walks along the beach.
June Kee - Dietitian

June is a friendly and compassionate Accredited Practising Dietitian with a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. She is currently working towards a PhD in pregnancy nutrition. June is dedicated to supporting patients health journeys by providing evidence-based nutritional advice based on individual needs and the required education and skills to assist patients in achieving their health goals. June has experience working with patients of different health conditions such as: diabetes mellitus, weight management, cardiovascular diseases and nutrition related gastrointestinal complications (IBS/IBD), with a particular interest in women's health. June is also able to communicate in different languages other than English (e.g. Mandarin, Cantonese, Malay). When she is not working, June enjoys catching the morning sun and coffee by the water.