Compassionate and competent health care professionals

As one of the few multidisciplinary clinics in Sydney, Active Back Care offers a unique approach to chiropractic care, massage therapy, and physiotherapy. By combining the three essential disciplines in one facility, we’re able to offer a comprehensive perspective to enhance whole-body health.

Each of our highly skilled health care professionals and therapists offers a distinctive skill set, contributing to the cohesive team that is Active Back Care.

Dr. Rod Weiland (Chiropractor), Founder & Clinical Director

Rod is a chiropractor, business owner, employer, and family man who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of excellence. As one of two clinical directors of Active Back Care, he is devoted to providing the best in natural health care solutions and to serving patients’ needs in every regard.

After receiving a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of New South Wales in 1988, Rod earned a Masters degree in Chiropractic at Macquarie University in 1990. Upon graduating, he opened his first clinic in Chatswood, emphasizing clinical excellence, customer service, community involvement, and empowering staff training.

With a wealth of experience and advanced training in industrial injury prevention, occupational health, and ergonomics, Rod works to create an environment that is conducive to the well-being of therapists and clients alike. He believes that each patient presents his or her own unique needs that must be met with creativity, insight, compassion, and service.

Rod is a devoted family man; he and his wife, Cherine Weiland, have two children. With Cherine, he served as Convener of the NSW branch of the Spinal Research Foundation for several years, encouraging continuing education of students, new graduates, and experienced practitioners in chiropractic disciplines. Rod has also had many years of experience providing free weekly spinal care classes for patients, injury prevention programmes for local businesses, back care lectures, and informational sessions about chiropractic care and wellness.

Dr. Cherine Weiland (Chiropractor), Founder & Clinical Director

With a background in chiropractic science, Cherine has a passion to promote health and well being by optimizing spinal biomechanics and neurological function.

After graduating from the University of New South Wales with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1988, Cherine earned her Masters degree in Chiropractic at Macquarie University in 1990. Early in her career she developed an interest in identifying and addressing structural dysfunctions that can lead to chronic back pain conditions. By performing gentle spinal adjustments and prescribing active spinal rehabilitation exercises Cherine was successful in relieving mechanical back and neck pain symptoms and improving spinal strength. Further postgraduate studies in neurology enhanced Cherine’s ability to address more complicated spinal and neurological conditions such as various headache, migraine and benign vertigo symptoms. Finally, after having children of her own Cherine expanded her interest to providing safe and effective pre and post natal care as well as pediatric care to her patients.

Cherine is a member of the Chiropractors Association of Australia, Chiropractors & Osteopathic College of Australia, and International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.

As a clinical director of Active Back Care, Cherine manages the in-house training for all of the massage therapists and support staff, empowering the spirit of excellence that drives our clinic.

Dr Vivien Voon, (Chiropractor), Associate Chiropractor

A licensed chiropractor, Vivien Voon brings an eclectic skill set and warm, caring personality to Active Back Care. Her areas of clinical interest include the management and prevention of chronic spinal pain, disc injuries, sciatica, scoliosis and headaches. Vivien also has a special interest in neuroscience and women’s health issues, particularly prenatal care.

Vivien earned both her Bachelors and Masters of Chiropractic Science degrees from Macquarie University. She is a member of the Chiropractic Association of Australia, the Chiropractic Association of New South Wales, and the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Vivien is committed to ongoing education, and strongly encourages all members of the Active Back Care team to stay abreast of new advances and technologies.

Michael Brierley (Physiotherapist)

After years of working in the public hospital system, focusing primarily on rehabilitation and post-operative hip and knee surgeries, Michael joined the Active Back Care team with a specialty in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy. He has worked with many local soccer, AFL, netball, basketball, and gymnastic sports teams.

Michael earned his Bachelor of Applied Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney. He has received extensive training in multiple forms of physiotherapy, including the Maitland, Mulligan, and McKenzie methods, as well as ENAR electrotherapy. As an accredited Work Cover, DVA, and CTP physiotherapist, he spent 12 months volunteering on the Thailand/Myanmar border, where he trained local physiotherapists in rehabilitation.

Michael’s diverse treatments involve a combination of ENAR electrotherapy, deep-tissue massage, mobilisations and manipulations, and evidence-based home exercise and stretching programs. He gets great satisfaction from helping people regain their strength, adopt healthy lifestyles, and return to their favorite activities. His success as a physiotherapist is his one on one, hands-on care of his individual patients.

Jessica Fearnside (Physiotherapist)

Active Back Care is pleased to welcome Jessica Fearnside to our team of qualified practitioners. A recent graduate of the University of Sydney, Jessica holds a degree in Physiotherapy and is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association. An avid athlete and fitness enthusiast, she has a special interest in sports injuries and incorporating exercise-based techniques into her treatments. Jessica has served as a physiotherapist for NSW Handball and the Sydney University Handball Club. We look forward to Jessica’s positive contributions to our goal of achieving our patients’ optimal wellness.

Melissa Jerrow (Massage Therapist)

Melissa Jerrow has been a valued member of the Active Back Care family for more than eight years. After graduating with a Diploma of Health Science in 2003, she pursued training in massage therapy and soon joined our team.

Melissa takes part in annual Health & Wellbeing conferences to keep her skills sharp and to offer the utmost in client care. To reduce her own stress, she enjoys reading, crafting, and cooking. Melissa specializes in pregnancy massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point release

Nathan Sultana (Massage Therapist)

As an athlete, Nathan Sultana has experienced firsthand the effect of injuries, strain, and reduced range of motion. He earned a Diploma of Remedial Massage in 2009 and is continuing to pursue further education with an Occupational Therapy degree at Sydney University.

As a result of his training and personal experience, Nathan is opposed to the “no pain, no gain” mentality. He believes that a gentle approach incorporating passive and active range of motion, myofascial release, and rehabilitation exercise is the most profound way to deliver real and lasting results. When he’s not working on a client or in school, you’ll find Nathan on the rugby or soccer field. He specializes in remedial and sports massage.

Adam Kesik (Massage Therapist)

As one of the talented massage therapists on the Active Back Care team, Adam Kesik helps patients achieve their peak physical conditions through natural holistic treatments. Adam earned his diploma of remedial massage from Nature Care College in 2008, with a specialty in deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy. He enjoys working in a multidisciplinary environment among chiropractors, physiotherapists, and other massage therapists, enhancing his practice through the strengths and ideas of those around him. With his easygoing manner and gentle techniques, Adam is able to build a strong rapport with his clients. He has a special interest in martial arts and Oriental therapies, and is a certified fitness instructor.

Jo McKechnie (Massage Therapist)

With an interest in sports massage she has provided therapeutic massage to elite athletes from a wide range of sports including hockey, swimming, cricket, netball, and rugby union teams.

After graduating with her Diploma of Remedial Massage Jo joined the team at Active Back Care in 2009 and has gained a stellar reputation as a talented and innovative therapist. Her specialties include remedial massage, pregnancy massage, sports massage, and deep tissue massage.

Terri Hamamoto (Massage Therapist)

Terri Hamamoto is pleased to bring her massage therapy skills to the Active Back Care team, working alongside chiropractors and physiotherapists to help patients achieve full range of motion and optimal wellness. Along with her diploma of remedial massage from Meadowbank TAFE, Terri has also earned certificates in aromatherapy, hot stone therapy, cupping, and scenar (electro) therapy. In her spare time, she practices Kendo and Jodo to relax and relieve stress. Terri currently has a special interest in mastering “Ki” as a vital force in massage and wellness.

Blake Egelton (Massage Therapist)

With a background in exercise, Blake Egelton graduated with a Bachelor of Exercise Science in 2009. He is presently working on a Masters of Physiotherapy degree at Sydney University, which he intends to complete in December of 2011.

Blake has been a member of the Sydney Roosters National Rugby League rehabilitation team, and often participates in sports coverage for the Gold Coast Suns Australian Football League. Though his schedule leaves him little free time, he loves rugby, surfing, music, and reading. Blake specializes in soft tissue therapy, current and post-injury rehabilitation, exercise rehabilitation, and physiotherapy.

Michelle Mahony (Head Receptionist)

As the head receptionist of our facility, Michelle is responsible for greeting patients, processing records, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. After her previous career in banking, she came to Active Back Care six years ago, quickly proving herself as an invaluable resource.

Michelle’s favorite part of the job is making new patients feel comfortable and witnessing the happy results of successful treatments. Considering her co-workers to be like family, she infuses the office with her cheerful, caring attitude.

With two teenage children who are very active in basketball, Michelle has been managing representative teams in her spare time for over a decade.

Jennifer Cadzow (Receptionist)

After several years working as a personal assistant with large corporate organisations, Jennifer took some time off to raise her new daughter. She recently decided to return to the workforce with a part-time position at Active Back Care. She has found the job to be fulfilling, flexible, and perfectly suited to her lifestyle as a busy wife and mother.

Jennifer enjoys being part of the small, family-oriented team at Active Back Care, and thrives on the busy office environment and daily personal interactions with patients. She strives to always greet patients with kindness and sensitivity.

In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys playing competitive netball, walking, pursuing outdoor activities, and spending time with her young daughter.

Angela Camilleri (Receptionist)

As a busy mom to a young daughter, Angela finds her part-time receptionist role to be well-suited to her lifestyle. Prior to joining the Active Back Care team, Angela earned a degree in Beauty Therapy and held a career in the beauty industry, with a specialty in laser treatments, massage, and facials. Her background in these beauty and wellness services has transitioned nicely into her current role.

As a receptionist, Angela’s duties range from fielding phone calls and making appointments to discussing patients’ needs and goals with them. Above all, she gets the most fulfillment from interacting with people every day.

When she’s not working, Angela enjoys cooking, entertaining, and spending time with her growing family. She appreciates the support she receives from her workplace, allowing her to strike a successful balance between her work and home lives.