Life-Changing Paediatric Therapy Comes To Mackay

Centre of Movement, a leading paediatric allied health clinic from the Gold Coast, is bringing its expertise to Mackay with a two-week intensive therapy pop-up clinic. Running from 13th to 24th January at the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, this initiative offers families access to specialised neurological rehabilitation tailored for children with disabilities.
With 10 families participating, both local and from surrounding areas, the clinic aims to empower the community by providing innovative therapy solutions close to home. The dedicated team of therapists ensures children have access to the care they need to thrive, regardless of their location.
The Centre of Movement team emphasises the importance of early intervention. Director Stephen Pennisi explained that intensive therapy can create significant change in a shorter time frame.
“There’s that saying, ‘use it or lose it,’ and that goes for kids with brain damage and neurological conditions too,” he said.
“Three weeks of intensive therapy equals about 52 weeks of regular therapy, so you get more change in three weeks than you do over a whole year.”
Research supports this approach, showing that intensive therapy helps tap into neuroplasticity through repetition, leading to transformative outcomes. Each child’s therapy plan is tailored to their unique needs, with milestones such as sitting independently, head control, rolling, crawling, standing, and stepping often achieved during these sessions.
For Senior Exercise Physiologist Toby Doevendans, this pop-up clinic is especially meaningful. A proud Mackay local, Toby has been part of the Centre of Movement team since its beginnings six years ago. His return to his hometown is driven by a desire to bring life-changing care to regional families.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to bring this level of care to my hometown,” Toby shared.
“Every child deserves the chance to thrive, no matter where they live.”
One success story from the Centre of Movement is Baylee Runnels from Moranbah, who has completed five intensive therapy blocks with the team on the Gold Coast. Initially focusing on helping Baylee learn to walk, the therapy now centres on refining her gait, learning to run, jump, and navigate uneven terrain.
Baylee’s mum, Elise, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly grateful to have found such an amazing team to work with Baylee on her journey towards reaching her goals.
“They treat us like family and provide ongoing support between intensives that is truly outstanding. We highly recommend them for their level of knowledge, support, and commitment.”
Centre of Movement’s visit represents a powerful step toward improving healthcare access in regional areas. Through this initiative, families in North Queensland are being given the tools, care, and opportunities their children need to thrive.

“At Centre of Movement, our mission is to revolutionise children’s lives by unlocking their potential through the power of movement.”

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Senior Exercise Physiologist, Toby Doevendans, will be bringing his expertise to his hometown of Mackay at Centre of Movement’s pop-up clinic. Photos supplied

Baylee Runnels from Moranbah with Toby Doevendans

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