Support Team

Tania is a Registered Nurse who has a diverse and challenging role in our Practice. She has the important role of managing the Upper GI office and co-ordinates the processes that enable us to continue to provide care to our patients.

Tania is always happy to provide support throughout your journey.

Tan is a Registered Nurse with acute care and cardiac catheter lab experience, and more than five years of experience in oncology, Phase I and device clinical trials. As a Practice Nurse at Upper GI Surgery, Tan works with Tania and the clinical team to support our patients and the practice's research projects.

Debra supports our Bariatric nurse in providing patient care as well as managing and carrying out Oesophageal manometry and reflux testing in our Oesophageal physiology lab. Debra is highly motivated to help patients achieve the best outcomes possible.

Our reception staff (left Gina and right Agnese) manage our general reception area and are usually the people you speak to when contacting our office. Our receptionists have a diverse role in booking patient appointments, answering enquiries on the phone or in person and managing our multidisciplinary clinics.

They are always happy to help you with enquiries and liaise with the Practice Nurses to ensure our high standard of patient care is maintained.

Heidi Talbot’s role at Upper GI Surgery started at the inception in 2006 when she embarked on setting up the family business alongside her husband A/Prof Michael Talbot. Heidi originally worked as a Registered Nurse, but in this role she works alongside Debra (Practice Manager) to maintain the smooth and efficient running of the practice and staff wellbeing. Heidi is responsible for the day to day business operations such as accounting and compliance, management of the website and marketing, and practice development. In addition to this, Heidi also has an important role of supporting A/Prof Talbot in the organisation and facilitation of many educational presentations and sessions, as well as holding the role of Treasurer of the charitable foundation UGIMRF.

Fiona is a Registered Psychologist with over 10 years experience working alongside clients in order to develop and maintain positive change. Fiona has completed post graduate qualifications in Psychology and Counselling, and continues to attend ongoing professional development. Fiona provides counselling services to both individuals and groups to assist them in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals. Fiona is trained in a range of therapeutic modalities, with a preference for the use of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. In addition to counselling, evidence based assessments and screeners are used in order to provide a more thorough overview of the client’s current level of need. Through her training and experience, Fiona has developed the skills to assist clients to maintain lifestyle changes that improve their health, wellbeing and relationships.