As part of Occupational Therapy (OT) Week 2025, we’re proud to introduce Mel – one of our passionate occupational therapists helping children in rural and remote communities thrive. Mel has been with Royal Far West since April 2023. Here is what she had to share:
What is your pub pitch/explanation of what OT is?
A child in my session explained it best; “it’s like we get to play games, but somehow we also learn stuff!?” I get to work on so many different things; anything that a child needs or wants to be able to do! I might go from one session practicing wiping our bottoms when we do a poo (using a balloon and vegemite!) straight into a another where we are playing games and learning coping strategies when we lose!
What’s the funniest thing a child has ever said to you in a session?
That’s a hard one, there’s too many to remember! Often, it’s their brutal honesty; my nose ring makes me look like a cow, or my voice sounds funny (it is quite raspy). One time, a kid was doing a drawing of his house, and I praised his level of detail to which he replied, “so you know which house mine is when you come and visit!” So cute.
What is your favourite occupation (e.g. Activities of Daily Living, rest and sleep, education, work, play leisure, social participation) and why?
Probably play leisure, and social participation! I love being active and doing lots of different things with family and friends like hiking, going to the beach, playing with my nieces, going for long runs!
What is your favourite OT (therapy) activity and why?
Anything where we are getting our bodies moving; probably an obstacle course! We can work on so many different skills in the one activity, for example planning, attention and listening, helping our bodies to feel good through movement and sensory experiences, coordination and strength.
Can you share a special memory from your childhood?
It’s a simple one; going camping to a place called Koala Shores with my family during school holidays. It was always the best being with my family! We are actually going back these next holidays as a whole family with all our own families!
If someone referred you to OT, what would the referral reason be?
For my different sensory preferences, people often tell me I can be a little odd. Some examples:
- I love cold sensations; my dog’s wet nose, squeezing cold off my skin with my hands.
- I always have a pillow or blanket on my lap even if it’s hot.
- Texture in foods is a big thing for me.
- I hate the feeling of dirt or sand on my feet.
- I hate the waistband of my pants touching my skin, so I always wear a singlet.
Cover photo: Standing in the Fitzroy river. Above: Trying Kangaroo tail, and OT in action on camp in Fitzroy
Mel brings energy, empathy and a great sense of humour to her work with country kids. Whether she’s building obstacle courses or navigating sensory quirks, her sessions are full of creativity, connection and care.
We’re proud to have Mel on the team – and grateful for the difference she makes every day.