Hugh Schmetzer

Highly motivated and team-oriented new graduate physiotherapist with experience across musculoskeletal, acute, and rehabilitation settings. Developed and implemented individualised treatment plans through clinical placements and a 3-week internship at Active Health Riverina. Currently developing foundational skills in patient education, manual therapy, and evidence-based practice. Passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy and eager to continue growing clinical expertise in a collaborative, patient-centred environment. Ready to contribute to a multidisciplinary team, while continuously learning and improving as a new graduate.

Observational Placement at Forbes Hospital (2 weeks): Focused primarily on aged care patients, enhancing my understanding of geriatric care and the unique needs of older adults.

Acute Care Physiotherapy Placement (5 weeks, PHS416): Developed strong interprofessional communication skills while managing patients post-major surgeries. This placement deepened my knowledge of medically unwell patients and respiratory conditions through hands-on experience in both the ICU and surgical ward. It also emphasised the importance of justifying treatment decisions and refining manual handling techniques.

Transitional Aged Care Program (TACP) Placement (5 weeks, PHS417): A generalised placement that focused on enhancing communication and observational skills while supporting patients transitioning from hospital to community. This role highlighted the significance of meaningful engagement in the recovery process.

Rural Placement at Cootamundra Hospital (5 weeks, PHS418): Provided valuable insights into the workings of a peripheral hospital within the MLHD. This experience marked my first exposure to outpatient physiotherapy, boosting my confidence and helping me establish effective systems for patient assessment and treatment.

Rehabilitation Ward at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital (5 weeks, PHS419): Primarily worked with stroke patients and those experiencing post-surgical deconditioning. This placement was instrumental in honing my neurological physiotherapy skills and consolidating my passion for advocating for patients, while structuring objective assessments to track progress effectively.

Orthopaedic Ward & Outpatients at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital (5 weeks, PHS424): A musculoskeletal-focused placement where I encountered a diverse range of orthopaedic conditions. This experience further consolidated my passion for working in a musculoskeletal setting, and in the outpatient section, I gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of patient-centred practice.

Paul Wallace (Supervisor - Physiotherapist at Cootamundra Hospital) 

Mobile: 0491 621 504 

Email: Paul.Wallace1@health.nsw.gov.au

Nompilo Mthunzi (Supervisor - Physiotherapist at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital) 

Mobile: 0404 366 728 

Email: Nompilo.Mthunzi@health.nsw.gov.au