In collaboration with
Lead | Mental Health + Exercise Research Group
School of Human Sciences | University of Western Australia
CEO | Thriving in Motion
Senior Exercise Physiologist + Service Lead | Fremantle Hospital Mental Health Service
Honorary Research Associate | The Kids Research Institute Australia
Can you tell us a little about why you started MHEX?
I could see the incredible work being done by so many talented people around me and I wanted to create a way to bring those strengths together. On our own, we can each make a difference but as a collective, we have far greater reach and impact. MHEX is about amplifying what we do, not for the sake of self-promotion, but to make sure our research and services have the visibility they need to benefit more people and communities.
By working under a shared banner, we can build stronger networks, attract new opportunities, and increase the impact of our projects. Just as importantly, it helps us connect with the communities we work with through translating the research and demonstrate the value of integrating exercise into mental health care.
Ultimately, MHEX exists to maximise our collective strengths so that our research, teaching, and community programs can go further and create lasting change.
“When our powers combine…” cartoon reference for all the 90s kids out there!
What’s the part of your work you enjoy the most? And the most challenging?
I love working with people and seeing the real difference research and its translation into practice can make for communities and individuals. Whether it’s supporting people to achieve their goals, collaborating with colleagues, or helping students develop, it’s incredibly rewarding to know the work we’re doing has a tangible impact beyond the university walls.
Most challenging … definitely the statistics side of research! Numbers have never been my strength, so I sometimes find myself putting them off… which, of course, only makes them trickier. I also find it challenging to rein in all the ideas I’d love to explore – I’m constantly inspired by new opportunities and wish there were more hours in the day and more funding to support research.
What’s one project or piece of work you’re most excited about right now?
I’m really excited about the mix of projects we currently have underway – different people, ages and communities. Watching students complete their studies and continue in the area, and at the same time welcoming new students into the fold is also always energising. It feels like a fresh wave of ideas and momentum, and I love seeing how research keeps evolving through their creativity and commitment.
How would your colleagues describe you in three words?
- Supportive … “got their back”
- Enthusiastic
- attention to detail (aka. perfectionist)
Do you have a favourite quote, motto, or piece of advice that guides you?
I love the Greek concept of Meraki – doing something with soul, creativity, and love, and putting a part of yourself into your work. That really resonates with how I try to approach both my research and broader work. I also hold onto the saying: “The most dangerous phrase in the world is, ‘We’ve always done it this way.’” I value questioning and challenging the status quo so that we can keep improving and creating better outcomes.
Finally, what would you say to someone interested in starting a career in research?
I’d encourage them to take the time to reflect on what truly drives them and why they want to pursue this path. Research can be challenging, but if your values and energy align with the work you’re doing, it makes the journey so much more rewarding.
For me, the chance to contribute to people’s health and wellbeing, and to celebrate their milestones, whether that’s in recovery, fitness, or finishing a PhD, keeps me motivated. Surrounding yourself with people who share those values, like I’ve been fortunate to do with the MHEX team, makes all the difference.
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The MHEX Team acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Custodians of Country and recognises their continuing connection to land, sea, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, and present.
We are committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination through education and inclusive communities. We welcome all people and are respectful of individual identities.