As I have taken on the Chair role of the Animal Physio Group (APG) of our Professional Body The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), we had an induction meeting last Friday in Melbourne.

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I had the opportunity to meet other like minded physios from each sector. Many are not aware of the scope of our Practice. The other areas (those that work on 2 legs) include: Sports, Musculoskeletal, Aquatic, Acupuncture and Dry needling, Gerontology, Paediatrics, Neurology, Physiotherapy Business Australia, Cardiorespiratory, Continence And Women’s Health. 

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How lucky we are to have so many well established sectors of our Profession.  It was interesting to learn about the pathway of Physiotherapy since 1950s.  We were headed by the Medical Pracitioner’s Board but had our first Physiotherapist as head of our professional body in 1972 when we became Primary Practitioners.

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As such a new area of Physiotherapy, our growing profession in Australia of Animal Physiotherapy is a very interesting path.  It is just fantastic to have the support of the APA and to learn a little more about what they are doing for our profession. There have been many changes in the last few years and we now have a strategic plan for 2012-2014 to build our profession.

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I learnt many techniques to help take on the role of Chair and am very grateful for the opportunity to meet all involved and feel supported in this new position. It is a very exciting time for Animal Physiotherapists in Australia and I hope the next 4 years are very productive to help continue to build our profession.

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Ps Melbourne was usual Melbourne – rain, a bit of sun, rain, wind, rain…. I have 3 APA trips in the first few months of this year and I must say it seems to be the same. Saying that the ‘sunny coast’ needs a change of name also this year!

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