About Us

Dr Andrew Wines is an Orthopaedic Surgeon who specialises in the ankle and foot and works in several North Shore hospitals. He is a second-generation Councillor and joined MBA NSW-ACT as a young intern over 30 years ago. In 2003 he was awarded a Churchill Fellowship to access the services available to doctors in times of crisis.

Andrew has held various roles on the MBA Council including Vice President and was elevated to the Presidency in November, 2022. Andrew also sits on the Boards of the Australian Orthopaedic Association, Knox Grammar School, St John Ambulance NSW and the International Orthopaedic Diversity Association. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and volunteers as a telephone crisis supporter at Lifeline Australia.

Of his work with the Council Andrew comments:

“In 2003, I had the privilege of traveling to the United Kingdom and Ireland as a Churchill Fellow to evaluate the support services available to doctors and their families during times of crisis.

Throughout my tenure on the MBA Council, I have been proud to contribute to the systems that doctors in NSW and ACT can rely on during their own personal crises. The financial and emotional support offered by the MBA has had a profound impact on many of our colleagues and their families, providing crucial assistance when it has been needed most”

Dr Felix Choi graduated from UNSW and holds a Diploma in Paediatrics. He became a Fellow of the RACGP in 2002. Currently, he practices as a GP on Sydney's North Shore with a special interest in skin cancer.

Felix has obtained Certificates in Dermoscopy and Skin Cancer Medicine and has been actively involved in educating General Practitioners on Skin Cancer Management. Felix has served on the Council since 2007, playing a key role in guiding the organisation as Treasurer through the challenges of the Global Financial Crisis.

Of his work with the Council Felix comments:

“I enjoy working with the other medical practitioners on the Council, who come together on a monthly basis with the sole purpose of helping fellow colleagues in need. Being a Councillor for MBA NSW-ACT has been a wonderful experience. During my time as Treasurer, I was able to help navigate the Association through the global financial crisis which helped me improve my financial skill set. It has also given me the opportunity to give back to my profession as well as to establish other networks that I would not have been able to do had I not been involved with such a longstanding and respected organisation. “

Dr Glenn McNally is a specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist engaged solely in diagnostic ultrasound in both the public sector (as the Director of Medical Imaging at the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney) and in the private sector.

Glenn has a long-standing interest in education and improving general standards of practice in diagnostic imaging. Glenn joined Council in August 2020 and has been Treasurer since November 2021.

Of his work with the Council Glenn comments:

“I’ve been fortunate in life in most respects, but know that misfortune can affect any of us and without warning. Support from family, friends and colleagues is helpful, but support from an organisation like the MBA can be a godsend, as it is provided confidentially and without judgement and by people who specialise in helping doctors.

The Association has been in existence since 1896, providing this vital support for medical practitioners and their families. Our activities are implemented by highly skilled social workers who are supported by a Council of volunteer medical practitioners, who give of their time and commitment freely. Whilst a Councillors contribution is relatively small, the reward is great in seeing a colleague supported in their time of need.”

Louise Fallon has served as Executive Officer of MBA NSW-ACT since October 2020, bringing over three decades of senior management experience in both corporate and the not-for-profit sectors. A graduate with a Business Degree and recipient of the prestigious University Medal, Louise began her career in the Financial IT sector before transitioning to the not-for-profit arena to pursue a more purposeful path. Recognized as a "Mover and Shaker" in the NFP industry in 2018, she has held leadership roles across various organisations, including serving as CEO of The Children’s Tumour Foundation, a mid-sized charity, just prior to joining MBA.

Louise has significantly enhanced the organisation’s impact and sustainability. She has modernised systems, cultivated strategic partnerships, and successfully secured grant funding, diversifying MBA’s income streams. Her visionary leadership spearheaded the organisation’s expansion into preventative care through collaborations with financial counsellors and medical career planners, as well as running workshops that focus on issues related to doctors’ health. These initiatives have raised MBA NSW-ACT’s profile and attracted vital funding which has helped the charity meet the growing demand for its unique services within the medical community.

Outside of work, Louise enjoys connecting with nature through outdoor activities with friends and family, creating abstract art, staying fit, kayaking and improving her golf.

Associate Professor Antonio is a health executive and clinician in Canberra. He has been a GP for 30 years and since 2022 has been the Director of the Professional Services Review.

Antonio has previously served as the State President of the AMA-ACT and performed many volunteer roles. He continues to contribute to numerous other Boards, Councils, Committees, and Advisory Groups. With over 25 years of volunteer experience in Doctor’s Health, he currently serves on the national and state boards of Drs4Drs, is a past clinical lead for Drs4Drs ACT and actively takes calls on their 24/7 helpline. He is the Executive Chair of the National Leadership Alliance for Doctors' Health and chairs the Australian Health Regulator Network. He serves on the Primary Care Committee of the ACSQHC. After a previous tenure of over five years, he re-joined the MBA Council in July 2023.

Of his work with the Council Antonio comments:

“I’ve spent decades helping doctors through various crises, and the MBA NSW-ACT has two remarkable strengths – it’s a reminder that we are a family within this profession, and that direct, practical, urgent, and holistic support is always available.”

Dr Furio Virant OAM is a distinguished leader in Australian general practice, combining decades of clinical excellence with key roles in medical governance. A partner in a GP practice in Southwest Sydney, he is a Life Member of the RACGP and a Surveyor for AGPAL, upholding the highest standards in medical accreditation.

A dedicated advocate for doctor’s health, Furio has served on the MBA Council since 1994, including five years as Vice-President (2015–2020). He has also held leadership roles with AMA NSW, chairing the AMA Council of General Practice and contributing to the AMA NSW Branch Council. Additionally, he has served as Director and Treasurer of the Australian Divisions of General Practice (ADGP) and Chairman of the Fairfield Division of General Practice.

Beyond the consulting room, Furio’s commitment to service includes eight years with the Royal Australian Navy (plus navy reserve duty) and a board position at the Centre of General Practice Integration Studies of NSW. A respected educator, he has also been a conjoint lecturer in General Practice at Western Sydney University.

In recognition of his impact on the medical profession, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2022.

Of his work with the Council Furio comments:

“As a profession, we are a family that supports others, but who supports us when we are in need? Since joining the Council in 1995, I’ve been inspired by the doctors I’ve worked with. They come from various specialties but share a common desire to help those in our profession—and their families—who are facing difficult times. I still fondly remember those Council members who have passed away; their kindness and dedication have shaped me into someone more caring and empathetic toward those in need.”

Dr Glen Farrow is a former healthcare executive and general and paediatric surgeon. His career includes Director roles at Royal North Shore, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, and the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network.

In addition to his numerous deployments with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as a surgeon and later as Health Element Commander, Glen’s extensive experience has given him deep insight into the unique challenges faced by doctors. He also serves as a Board Director for St John’s Ambulance Australia and RSL Lifecare. Dr Glen joined the Council in May 2020 and was honoured with an OAM in January 2024 for his contributions to military medicine and patient safety.

Of his work with the Council Glen comments:

“I enjoy being on Council as it gives me an opportunity to use my years of varying experiences to help professional colleagues. Changing someone’s career trajectory for the better, really does help improve their life and circumstances.”

Dr Ian Wechsler is an Ophthalmologist who joined Council in 2011. Like all our Council members, Ian wanted to give back to the profession which had been so good to him. Dr Ian graduated from the University of Sydney, and is one of the founders of Burwood Eye Clinic.

His parents arrived in Australia as overseas-trained doctors, so he can relate to this group of practitioners and has witnessed first-hand the challenges they face in obtaining Australian medical qualifications.

Over the years he has developed an interest in medico-legal aspects of Ophthalmology, and previously served as an advisor to Avant.

Of his work with the Council Ian comments:

“It is truly gratifying to be part of the MBA NSW-ACT Council, a diverse group of doctors who use their skills and experience to offer confidential support to colleagues in need. Medical practitioners can often feel isolated and vulnerable, so it is especially rewarding when we hear from a fully recovered colleague who has returned to professional practice.”

Dr Josephine (Jo) Braid is a seasoned physician with 20 years of experience specialising in neuro-rehabilitation, with a special interest in doctors’ wellbeing. Based in Orange, she is also an award-winning coach dedicated to transforming burnout recovery for doctors and healthcare professionals.

Two years ago, she launched The Burnout Recovery Podcast, which has since gained a large local and international following. Jo offers interactive keynotes, group, and personalised coaching programs, primarily for doctors.

Passionate about mental wellbeing, Jo combines her expertise in neuro-rehabilitation with coaching to help doctors and others thrive. In recognition of her successful coaching business, Jo was named Regional Winner in Excellence in Microbusiness at the 2024 NSW Business Awards and was also a finalist for the state award.

Jo joined the Council in October 2024 after collaborating with MBA NSW-ACT on a major project that delivered workshops to doctors in regional Western NSW.

Of her work with the Council Jo comments:

“As a senior rehabilitation specialist, I joined MBA NSW-ACT to support medical professionals facing challenges. Having worked in regional healthcare, I understand the unique pressures on practitioners in rural areas, where support networks are limited. Living in Orange and practicing in a regional hospital, I see the importance of compassionate support”.

Dr Maria Li is a GP and Medical Advisor in healthcare regulation, with a passion for using modern communication methods to enhance public health messaging. She is a World Health Organization-affiliated social media educator and the host of the 5-star rated The Safe Practice Podcast. 

Maria’s board, committee, and working group affiliations have included the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), the Australasian College of Health Service Management (ACHSM), and the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS). Maria joined Council in February 2025.

Of her work with the Council Maria’s comments:

"In life, we may forget many things, but we never forget those who gave to us when we had nothing left to give. As doctors we enter the profession to assist others, but we rarely envision that we may also need help when illness or misadventure strikes. In this regard, the work of MBA in providing assistance to doctors in crisis is invaluable.

I am so proud of what our organisation does in unimaginable circumstances. To be a part of that is a privilege. Thank you, MBA NSW-ACT, for scaffolding our profession in our lowest moments."

Dr Natalie Klees is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators and a Senior Medical Advisor for the NSW Ministry of Health.

Natalie has held diverse clinical and non-clinical roles and has a strong interest in education and training. Natalie joined the MBA NSW-ACT Council in November 2022 and was appointed Honorary Secretary in November 2023.

Of her work with the Council Natalie comments:

“It’s truly rewarding to witness the profound impact the Medical Benevolent Association has had on so many lives. For well over a century, it has remained an organisation run by doctors, for doctors. It is both an honour and a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team, supporting the wellbeing of doctors in NSW and the ACT.”

Dr Paul Hosie recently retired after a long career primarily in General Practice in Northern NSW. He served as a VMO at Ballina Hospital, providing in-patient, obstetric, and accident and emergency care.

Paul also held the roles of State Medical Officer and Police Medical Officer for the Ballina district. More recently, Paul and his family moved to Sydney, where he worked for seven years as a GP in the Northern Suburbs before spending four years with Bupa in immigration medicine. Paul joined the Council in August 2021.

Of his work with the Council Paul comments:

“Whilst practicing medicine allows a unique opportunity for job satisfaction and fulfilment, it can be associated with periods of considerable stress for the practitioner and their family.

I feel very privileged to be part of an organisation that provides support and

assistance for doctors and their families during these difficult times.”

Dr Sonia Henry is a GP who works in remote parts of NSW and Australia. She is also a writer and an advocate for junior doctor wellbeing. Her debut novel, ‘Going Under’, was a great success, and her second book, ‘Put Your Feet in the Dirt, Girl’, has propelled her into media stardom.’

Sonia is a sought-after keynote speaker on issues affecting younger and remote doctors. Sonia has also written for publications such as the SMH, Kevin MD, The Australian, The Canberra Times, and RM Williams Magazine. Sonia joined the Council in August 2021.

Of her work with the Council Sonia comments:

“I have always appreciated the direct-action approach of the MBA NSW-ACT, rather than the lip service a lot of other organisations pay to doctors in crisis. I am honoured to be a Councillor for such a credible charity and am happy to represent younger doctors and those working in more remote areas. For me, it is another step in my ongoing advocacy for doctors and their families who need assistance and support and are often reluctant to ask.”

Dr Anthony (Tony) Joseph AM graduated from the USYD in 1977 and, after spending a few years training in hospital and obstetric medicine, he settled into General Practice in Murwillumbah in Northern NSW.

After five years, he returned to Sydney to train in Emergency Medicine, his last role being Senior Staff Specialist in Emergency Medicine and the Director of Trauma Services at RNS Hospital. He was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia medal for outstanding services to medicine in 2020, having spent over 25 years practicing Emergency Medicine.

Tony has always been active in advocating for doctors’ health through executive roles on RNS Hospital Medical Staff Council and the NSW Executive Council. He joined Council in May 2023 after he retired from clinical work.

Of his work with the Council Tony comments:

“I feel truly privileged to be part of a team that can support members of our profession who are facing difficult financial and personal challenges. It's easy to forget that doctors and their families, like anyone else, can encounter unexpected circumstances that impose a significant financial strain on them.” 

Dr Vanessa Rogers works as a Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist at Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) and sits as a part-time member of the NSW Mental Health Review Tribunal.

Vanessa strongly believes it is important to help support her medical colleagues and their families in times of hardship and crisis.

Vanessa has had various roles including Vice-President, since she joined Council in 2013.

Of her work with the Council Vanessa comments:

“Nobody is immune to adversity, and I believe it is important to help support my colleagues and their families in times of hardship and crisis. I enjoy working with colleagues from diverse specialties who bring valuable knowledge and perspectives to the MBA Council.”

Associate Professor Vincent Wong is a Senior Staff Specialist and Director of Diabetes and Endocrine Service at Liverpool and Fairfield Hospitals. He is also the Liverpool Lead for the Diabetes, Obesity Metabolism Translational Research Unit - an academic unit in SWSLHD.

Vincent is Conjoint Associate Professor at the South Western Sydney Clinical School at UNSW and is involved in teaching medical students, registrars and other clinical staff. Vincent joined Council in 1998.

Of his work with the Council Vincent comments:

“We never know what life brings, and we all face our challenges and moments of difficulty. The MBA is like a family that helps colleagues in times of crisis, and being on the Council is the perfect way to give back to a profession that has provided me with so much.”