From this week, local people with foot, ankle and lower limb concerns will be able to access podiatry services in Coonabarabran thanks to Jamiee Brent. Despite only moving to the area earlier this year, Jamiee has wasted no time in setting up her new clinic at Coonabarabran Health Service. The Coonabarabran Times caught up with Jamiee to learn more about her new venture...

Tell me a bit about yourself?

I grew up on the Central Coast and Hunter Valley and completed my Bachelor of Podiatry in 2009. I ran my own podiatry business for six years on the Central Coast and really appreciate the opportunity to help increase people's quality of life through this profession.
In my free time I love exploring the bush and use it as inspiration for many different art and craft projects.

How did you end up out this way?

In 2019 I sold my business and my partner, Tim, and I went on an overseas adventure working in the United Kingdom (perfect timing of course). We were lucky enough to fly back into Australia in November last year.

We had always planned to come home and work in a regional/ rural community. Within two weeks of our return, Tim received a posting as the new teacher at Pilliga Primary School. By 27 January we had moved to Gwabegar to start our new life.

Do you feel like the stars somewhat aligned for you to launch your own podiatry clinic in Coonabarabran and Coonamble?

Moving out here does feel like it was meant to be. Everything has fallen into place very naturally and we fell in love with this beautiful area at first site. The Warrumbungles also seem like the perfect place to watch the stars align.

Where will you be seeing clients in Coonabarabran and how regularly?

I am hiring rooms at Coonabarabran Hospital and I will be seeing clients every Monday.

What services are you offering?

I am involved in all aspects of podiatric care including general care (toenail cutting, corn and callus debridement, ingrown toenail care), diabetic care, neurovascular assessments, wound care, biomechanical assessments and orthotic prescriptions.

Why is foot care so important?

Anyone who has experienced foot or lower limb pain will tell you how even a small annoyance can quickly turn into a major aggravation. We rely on our feet and legs every day and it is so easy to take them for granted. For me it is so important to keep people moving (whether at a walk or run) and to enable people to be active, independent and live their best life.

Any future plans for the business?

At the moment I am focused on growing my business in Coonabarabran, Coonamble and the surrounding areas. But in the future I would be happy to spread further into other rural and remote communities that also need support.

Why do you think it is important for regional communities to have access to specialised healthcare services such as podiatry?

I believe that with greater and easier access to healthcare we not only help individuals to live longer and better lives, but also help communities as a whole. Healthcare at community levels can offload other health and community sectors by enabling early treatment and encouraging conversation through health education.

How does it make you feel to be one of several new unique businesses that have launched in town recently?

I am proud to have the opportunity to become a part of this town and hope that I can give back into the community as well. I look forward to becomingmorefamiliar with this community and withthisbeautifulpartof the country.