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”.
Matisse Davis – Reception

Matisse is dedicated in providing the best care and support to our patients. In Matisse’s free time she enjoys spending time with friends and family, sitting down with a good book, or crafting clothing pieces for herself and friends to wear. Matisse loves the diversity of her role at Newcastle Weight Loss Surgery; “every day is something new, and working alongside Dr Thiruchelvam is always a positive and supportive experience”.
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

Sandya Streram – Dietitian

Sandya is an Accredited Practising Dietitian with a Bachelor in Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. She is currently completing a PhD focused on lifestyle interventions to optimise mental health outcomes for university students.

Sandya is committed to the provision of patient-centred care by providing up-to-date, evidence-based nutritional advice to address the individualised needs of her patients. She is passionate about empowering her clients to attain health and wellness while navigating the transition that comes post bariatric surgery. Outside of work, Sandya enjoys dancing, walks by the beach and trying new recipes
June Ooi - Dietitian

June is a friendly and compassionate Accredited Practicing Dietitian with a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. June is also currently the secretary for the Dietitians Australia Bariatric Surgery Interest Group Leadership Committee, and 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 also speaks Mandarin, Cantonese, and Malay. When she is not working, June enjoys spending time in nature.