Tool Time (Melbourne)

Tool Time is one of our more popular sessions, and is a practical workshop which covers the topics below:

• When/how can a therapist adjust a client’s wheelchair and seating components vs when a supplier should be contacted
• The ways in which a wheelchair/seating system can be modified to meet the client’s needs vs when to consider replacement
• Which tools to use when
• Opportunity to practice making hands-on adjustments using tools. 

 This session is suitable for therapists of all levels, as well as therapy assistants and students.

Morning tea will be provided.  Please bring your tool kit – we’ll also have tools available to use during the event.

Meet the Presenters: 

Kate Pain (GTK)

Kate comes from an occupational therapy background, with two decades of experience in varied settings, specialising in wheelchair seating and positioning. She finds the evolution of power wheelchair alternate drive technology fascinating, and looks forward to exciting innovations becoming more readily available in power wheelchairs.

Kate really enjoys appointments with children who are trying out a wheelchair for the first time. She loves seeing the excitement in their eyes as they move independently for the first time – it’s contagious!

Kate also enjoys working with adults trialling a wheelchair for the first time, who have a lifetime of limiting perceptions about using a wheelchair, who then realise that the right equipment can amplify their abilities and enjoyment of life.

Romi Russek (GTK)

Romi’s previous work experience includes work with children with complex physical disabilities, working as an occupational therapist in a regional setting with a varied caseload including working closely with Indigenous communities, and then moving into the complex rehab space where she was able to hone in on her complex seating and wheelchair prescription skills and experience.

Romi says that she has found her true passion in this space and foresee a long career working with wheelchair users to continuously support and promote independence. Romi has a particular interest in paediatrics and promoting 24 hour positioning, through continually educating and empowering users and carers.