News and information from Montrose

Like many little girls, three-year-old Winnie loves barbie dolls, going to kindy and playing with her sister, Eden (5). However, these are milestones her family didn’t expect her to reach after she was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1 at four-months-of-age. “When we first received the news, we were told Winnie’s life expectancy [...]

A Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP) can allow you to access multidisciplinary, team-based care from both your General Practitioner (GP) and other health care providers, like Montrose. Therapy appointments funded under a CDMP are key to early intervention and can be a great option for you to commence working on short term goals or for [...]

It is common for people to rely on a car or another type of vehicle to travel to appointments, visit loved ones, or even go on a holiday. So, it can be hard when your vehicle is not easily accessible or practical for you to drive. Recently, the NDIA released new guidelines for vehicle modifications [...]

During the initial COVID-19 lockdown in early 2020, many of us suddenly found ourselves locked up inside, looking for ways to keep busy. For eight-year-old Nathan, it gave him the space and time to unleash his artistic talent. Two years later, he now has his very own small business, selling his unique pieces, with the [...]

Georgie, one of our amazing Occupational Therapists based at our Slacks Creek Service Centre, takes time out to tell us more about herself and working for Montrose. “When I was younger, I would often visit my Great-Grandmother at her nursing home when growing up. Being with her made me realise I wanted to help people [...]

The Toowoomba Team are planning two exciting groups for the second term of 2022. We are taking expressions of interest first to check that the groups can run so get in touch soon to let us know. Costs are to be confirmed but will be in line with NDIS rates. Please call us on 07 [...]

On Mondays our Lifestyle & Leisure group head to Jamie’s Ministry of Food Centre at Ipswich to learn basic cookery skills in a fun, practical and hands-on cooking class. The classes are aimed to teach participants the skills required to make simple, affordable, and healthy meals from scratch. Once we arrived in Ipswich by train [...]

Nine year old Mia has received support from Montrose since she was discharged from hospital following a critical illness that resulted in the amputation of all four limbs. Despite this incredible challenge, and thanks to the support of her family and healthcare team including Montrose, she is able to live a full life. She enjoys [...]

Montrose currently has Term 1 availability for Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy across most of our locations. Get a head start on your therapy goals in 2022! We believe a disability shouldn’t get in the way of you living your life to the fullest. A term of therapy can be used flexibly to meet a specific [...]

With the support of the Gold Coast Montrose team, four-year-old Daniel is prepared to begin schooling life in 2022. "The girls [therapists] have nicknamed it “Prep Prep”, they’re helping him develop his confidence, sit at a table for an extended time and maintain his attention span." said Daniel’s Mum Alex. Daniel has been attending Montrose [...]

Almost two-year-old Sunshine Coast client Lucas has an incredible story. Born at only 23 weeks and 5 days gestation, Lucas was a tiny 630 grams and 21.8 centimeters – one of the smallest babies ever born at Sunshine Coast University Hospital.   “When he was born, his dad named him Lucas – it means ‘bringer of light’. […]

Montrose Speech Pathologist Maddie Dardengo has followed her passion for Speech Pathology from the beaches of the NSW to the leafy outlooks of Toowoomba. Maddie first found her passion for Speech Pathology as a teenager growing up in Lismore on the New South Wales coast. “My mum is a primary school teacher, so growing up […]

Montrose is offering a Short Term Therapy Service to those waiting to access therapy services. Short Term Therapy Service is an opportunity to discuss your immediate goals or concerns with an experienced Montrose therapist and confirm the best course of action. Our therapists can also help introduce you to activities you can do on your […]

Lincoln is 8 years old and spends a lot of his time trying to keep up with his younger sister and brother! He loves playing with them even though it tires him out. Lincoln was diagnosed with Duchene Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) at 2 years old. DMD is a debilitating genetic condition that causes a gradual [...]

Is living more independently one of your goals? You might be considering starting university, taking up work or volunteering or even moving into SIL (Supported Independent Living). Whatever your goals are, it’s important that you have the right supports in place to ensure long-term success. Montrose offers appointments to those requiring Functional Assessments. This is […]

Do you have upcoming equipment needs? Assistive Technology — sometimes more simply referred to as ‘equipment’ — includes everything from wheelchairs to PODD books, and can make a significant impact on improving independence and quality of life. Montrose Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists are offer appointments specifically for Assistive Technology Assessments. We tend to […]

What does an Occupational Therapist do? Occupational Therapists play a crucial role in promoting the health and wellbeing of their clients, by enabling them to participate in activities (or ‘occupations’) they find meaningful. At Montrose, we have over 25 incredible Occupational Therapists working across our seven service centres. Montrose Occupational Therapists specialise in supporting young […]

  Since she can remember, Physiotherapist Laura has known her future career would involve working with children. After obtaining her Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) from Central Queensland University, a career at Montrose presented the ideal opportunity to apply her skills in a paediatric environment. Laura has now worked at Montrose’s Ipswich Service Centre for ten […]

Todd and Sami from 92.7MixFM on the Sunshine Coast have supported Montrose for many years. This month sees them taking part in a unique cycling event and live broadcast. ‘Heels on Wheels’ will raise money for Montrose as they complete 6 sponsored rides on behalf of Sunshine Coast businesses. Find out more on the MixFM [...]

As a parent of a child with disability, you can find yourself working with many specialists for support. Having all these specialists working in one organisation can mean a more collaborative approach to achieving your goals. Sunshine Coast mum, Tayla, has seen the significant benefits of working with our multidisciplinary team for Harrison (aged 5) [...]

Would you like to come and try our Magic Carpet – a fun, interactive therapy tool available at our Maroochydore Centre? Suitable for children from 1 to early teens, the device projects entertaining games and puzzles onto the floor. It encourages movement, coordination and concentration and can be used as part of your child’s therapy [...]

Montrose provides essential services and all Montrose Centres will remain open as normal during the current lockdown. All activities including centre-based therapy appointments, home visits, Lifestyle and Leisure and Short Stay Accommodation are continuing as planned. Covid safety procedures will be in place to keep everyone safe. Please ensure you are wearing a face mask […]

We are continuing with COVID Safe services as usual Montrose provides essential services and all Montrose Centres will remain open as normal this school holidays with all activities including Lifestyle and Leisure, Short Stay Accommodation and School Holiday Groups continuing as planned. You will be aware that additional COVID restrictions are being introduced by the […]

An amazing  journey for Isla We first introduced you to Isla when she was 6 months old. At that time, she had just been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) - Type 1 and was waiting for NDIS funding. The Montrose Sunshine Coast team lent equipment, advised the family through their NDIS application, and provided [...]

24 - 30 May 2021 Enjoy a full week designed especially for animal lovers. You'll be staying at Our Getaway -  custom designed and accessible  Short Term Accommodation on the Gold Coast. Monday 24 May, arrival 10am Morning – Fish and chips at the Charis Evening – Madagascar Movie Marathon Tuesday 25 May Morning – [...]

Montrose centres to remain open as providers of essential services You may have seen that the Queensland Government has announced a three day lock down for people living in Ipswich, Logan, Redlands, Moreton and Brisbane council areas starting from 5pm tonight (Monday 29 March 2021). The lock down allows people in impacted areas to leave […]

Swallowing Awareness Day is held in March to highlight the difficulties that some people face with swallowing. The problem is known as Dysphagia and can have a significant impact on health and quality of life. However, early intervention including support from a Speech Pathologist can help. Montrose Senior Speech Pathologist Janine Farmer explains more: What [...]

We’ve put together a great schedule for our Easter themed Weekend Break this year! It’s a 3 night stay and here’s everything we are squeezing in: Thursday 1 April 10am Arrival Day: Easter Brunch/High Tea Evening: Painting Easter eggs and Easter baking (yummy hot cross buns & chocolate Easter eggs) Friday 2 April Day: Alpaca […]

We understand there is a lot of information and discussion around COVID-19 vaccinations and it can be difficult to take it all in. To help, we have summarised the key things we know on this page. For the latest information directly from Government, please visit this site. UPDATE June 8 2020: View information from the [...]

We were delighted to welcome the Hon Craig Crawford MP, Minister for Seniors and Disability Services, to our Darra Head office recently. He met with our CEO Kerrie Mahon to learn more about Montrose services, the needs of our clients and our long history in Queensland. As well as providing high quality services, Montrose works […]

Our investment in Ipswich continues as we have expanded into the former accountants shop next door. Since opening our Raceview site in 2017, we know it has been a tight squeeze for clients and staff. The additional space has increased the number of therapy rooms, given us a great gym space and an additional waiting […]

We’ve had several new team members join us on the Coast in the last few months. Call us on 1800 193 362 to check on appointment availability across Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Speech Pathology. photo: All of our recently appointed team members: Michelle B, Jessie Kim, Isabel, Jess, Sarah, Francesca You can meet the whole […]

We are growing our Toowoomba Service and are delighted to have new staff joining the team. A huge welcome to our two new Occupational Therapists, Rochelle and Sarah. Sarah has recently transferred from our Brisbane service and is enjoying getting to know her new town and community. Rochelle is passionate about helping everyone to live their […]

Candace makes great progress with Montrose Candace is a happy little girl, living with a developmental delay after suffering seizures as an Infant. She is just about to celebrate her second birthday. At this age, time is critical as children grow and develop very rapidly. That's why Candace's family accessed multidisciplinary services at Montrose to [...]

Our recently released Annual Review 2021 celebrates our successes and reflects on the resilience and capabilities of all our clients and staff. While the last twelve months have presented continued COVID-19 challenges, it has sparked determination and innovation within our community. At Montrose, our focus has remained on providing stability and routine to our clients […]

October is AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Awareness Month – you may have seen some of our posts over on our Facebook page. AAC empowers individuals with communication difficulties to express their wants, needs, thoughts and ideas. At Montrose, many of our clients use a range of AAC such as PECS, PODD and speech generating […]

To keep everyone safe, we have COVID plans for all our locations. This means some things might look different when you next visit. These photos will help Montrose visitors understand what to expect. You can also download this information as a pdf here.

We are here to support you and still keen to see you in-person for your Montrose appointments. This page summarises what we are doing to keep you and your family safe when you visit. We also send regular emails to customers to keep you up to date. Before your next appointment, please take a moment to [...]

This article was updated with new information from the NDIS in May 2020. These NDIS changes may be relevant if you need to purchase a tablet, exercise equipment or other Assistive Technology to allow you to continue your therapy. The NDIS has temporarily broadened the ability to purchase low cost Assistive Technology (AT) items. This […]

As an NDIS provider, Montrose follows NDIS recommendations and price guidelines. A range of new measures have recently been announced by the NDIA to help support both participants and providers through COVID-19. These include: An additional 10% COVID-19 loading for services delivered over the next 6 months 100% charges on cancellations (up from 90%) Extension […]

Thank you for your cooperation and support so far as we respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. As you know, the safety and wellbeing of Montrose customers is always our top priority. Montrose is continuing to put in place strategies to exercise good hygiene and mitigate the risk of spreading infection in our centres. It is […]

This article is to update you on what Montrose is doing to keep our customers safe as we enter the flu season and as Coronavirus numbers increase globally. Montrose is following current Government guidelines with regard to reducing the spread of infection. We are ensuring staff are fully aware of good hygiene practices to ensure our […]

Ashlin is one of the first customers to use our new Archimedes Pulley System installed in our Sunshine Coast Office thanks to the generosity of the Dalwood-Wylie Foundation. Pulley therapy has been used as part of rehabilitation for many years and you will see them in many medical departments. These frames are an ideal option […]

Most people with diagnoses of Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome will be able to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The exact amount of funding and types of support will depend on the age of the participant and the severity of their condition. NDIS eligibility is based on reduced capacity in one or more of […]

There are so many kinds of equipment and assistive technology that are designed to make life easier for people with a disability. Some are cutting edge and high tech while other items are more basic but potentially just as life changing. To purchase equipment or assistive technology through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), you will […]

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Kerrie Mahon as Montrose CEO following the retirement of Peter Stewart.  Kerrie has 25 years’ experience leading and managing health and human services organisations and has been instrumental in transitioning to NDIS in previous workplaces. Her experience includes chief executive roles and executive positions leading community health [...]

Your first National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan will usually last for 12 months although some plans are reviewed more quickly. NDIS plan reviews are a central part of managing your plan. They are designed to check in on progress and update/ set new goals. You will be contacted by the National Disability Insurance Agency [...]

Many Montrose customers are used to accessing our respite service. However, there is no NDIS item listed as ‘respite’, which can cause confusion. Don’t worry, respite is still available but it is described in new ways, such as: Short term accommodation and assistance Assistance in living arrangements (host family/alternative family) solution Assistance with self-care overnight (different levels) Our […]

Outdoor play provides kids with the chance to explore the world around them and use their imagination. It is an integral element of their development. All ability playgrounds and accessible playgrounds create an environment that makes it easy for kids of all abilities to take part in fun and challenging outdoor play. All ability playgrounds […]

There are many different ways that you can use your NDIS package to maximise the support provided to you and your family. Below are some of the additional services that you may wish to access through your NDIS package. To learn more about these and for other tips on how to work within the NDIS, […]

For information about giving feedback or making a complaint directly to Montrose, please see this page. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is a new independent Commonwealth agency established to improve the quality and safety of NDIS supports and services. The Commission registers and regulates NDIS providers to provide national consistency, promote safety and quality […]

How to apply for NDIS funding for your child or yourself If you, your child, or someone you care for has a disability, you may be eligible to receive funding through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to access supports you require. Before completing your NDIS funding application, the NDIS requires you to first assess [...]

Please note, the NDIS has announced updated cancellation rules. Effective 1 July 2019, a short notice cancellation (or no show) is now defined as when there is a failure to provide: Two clear business days’ notice for a support or service which is eight hours or less in duration and less than $1,000 Five clear […]

We had some generous donations of large equipment items recently totalling over $24,000! The Dalwood-Wylie Foundation has generously donated the funds for a “Mobile Magic Carpet”. This interactive device will be used by all therapists in therapy sessions at Maroochydore. Sensory Guru from Sensory Guru on Vimeo. We are planning a “come and play evening” […]

The main talking point among parents at Montrose this week has been “can you believe it’s school holiday time again?”. We hear you on that! It’s great to see them getting a break after yet another busy term but we all know school holidays can quickly degenerate into complaints of “I’m bored” or reliance on […]

Montrose is a member of Ability First Australia (AFA), a strategic alliance of leading disability service providers. Together, we have agreed the following statement on the establishment of a Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. Ability First Australia supports the establishment of the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect […]

Daniel was our first customer yesterday at our new Brisbane North Centre. He had a fun physio session with Perri that even included a Nerf gun 🙂 Our new Centre is in Kedron and has appointments available! It also features Five modern consulting rooms, easy parking and lift access to our front door. We are at: Level 1, 359 [...]

We are delighted to be moving to a new home in Maroochydore! From 25 February 2019 any appointments booked with our Sunshine Coast Centre will be delivered at Kon Tiki Business Centre. You’re also invited to our Grand Opening Event. Come and check out our 6 custom designed therapy rooms at our Grand Opening Party on […]

“Take a breath. It’s going to be okay.” By Rita Harrison (Occupational Therapist) As we approach the end of the school year, many of the children we see may be hitting a wall. You may find that your child is “off”- old “bad behaviours” are creeping back up to the surface, they are testing boundaries [...]

Last week, George Marchant was inducted into the State Library of Queensland Hall of Fame as one of Queensland’s most successful businessmen and one of our most generous philanthropists. Here at our Darra Headquarters, the boardroom is known as the Marchant Room and there are many more connections in our history. When Montrose (known then […]

This week, we welcomed Minister for Social Services, Dan Tehan MP, to Montrose for a meeting to discuss the NDIS. Montrose CEO Peter Stewart was joined by CPL CEO Rhys Kennedy and Multicap Queensland CEO Joanne Jessop as well as Montrose client Tristram and a number of senior Montrose staff. Their discussion covered the positives […]

The IGA Sunshine Coast Charity Race Day in support of Montrose was held at Sunshine Coast Turf Club last weekend. 250 guests were perfectly positioned in the VIP Champagne Garden right on the finish line. An amazing display of fine outfits and fascinators made judging the Fashions on the Field competitions very tricky. Long time […]

Once you have registered to access the NDIS, you will then go through the planning process. At this time, a representative from the NDIA or their local coordinator will contact you to ask you about your goals to help you develop your first plan. For your first plan, the NDIA representative or local coordinator will [...]

To get ready for your NDIS planning meeting, set aside some time with a family member, carer, or provider, and start thinking about your goals. Consider your goals over time. What would you like to achieve over the next six months, twelve months, or the next couple of years? Your goals can be related to […]

Just a little something for the school holidays... this is the same recipe that Donna here at Montrose uses to make batches of playdough for therapy sessions and playgroups.   Play Dough Ingredients ½ cup salt 1 cup plain flour 2 tablespoons cream of tartar 1 cup water 1 tablespoon oil Food colouring   Method [...]

If you’re looking to plan a trip away with your loved ones, the Gold Coast is home to many exciting accessible activities and beaches. It's easy to see why this destination is a tourist hotspot with its huge range of pristine beaches, wildlife activities and theme parks. Here are a few of the Gold Coasts [...]

Exercise is vital for healthy living, it can also be a great way to socialise and meet new people. There are a range of sports that offer all ability opportunities in Queensland. The best way to find out whether a sport is right for you is to try it out. To get you started, here [...]

Accessible Activities Sunshine Coast If you are looking to organise a little getaway this year, consider the beautiful Sunshine Coast. While possibly not as famous with the tourists as the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast has plenty to offer holidaymakers and also offers a variety of fun activities that cater to a range of mobility […]

It’s difficult to understand how it feels to live with a disability, or to be parent of a child with one. Here is a list of the 6 best blogs to follow covering everything from personal experience and politics to community and travel.   Parker Myles Kat, a mother of two, only discovered her son […]

Many children are starting school for the first time today, January 22nd! Good luck to students and parents alike. Transitioning to school is one of the biggest steps in life for children. Although you can’t predict how your child will react to the new environment and routine, helping them practice certain skills beforehand can make […]

The new Montrose Ipswich Service Centre has opened at Shop 36, 64 Raceview Street. Conveniently located at the well-known Raceview Shopping Centre, the team from Montrose offer physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology. Parking is available right outside the centre with easy wheelchair access into the office. Minor renovations are underway to give a comfortable […]

One of the first phrases you will hear when you start to think about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is “planning”. The NDIS is designed to improve choice and control when it comes to disability supports. This means the planning stage is vital to ensure you get the supports you need.   Everyone who […]

Please note: The information below is now out of date. The latest information we are aware of is on the Queensland Government website here. What You Need to Know The Queensland Government recently announced that they would reinstate the Taxi Subsidy Scheme (TSS) for Queensland NDIS participants until June 2019. Some people had their TSS […]

Our new Toowoomba Service Centre enjoyed an official opening on Monday 24 July. Over 50 people attended the event with local politicians, businesses & other agencies in attendance as well as customers and families. Local artist Joy Jennings is creating an artwork to mark the opening that will hang in the centre. In the evening, […]

Customers in the Toowoomba area are now benefiting from our new Service Centre which opened at 1/9 Bowen Street this week. After many years of providing outreach services to the area, we are delighted to have a permanent home. The new office includes consulting rooms and a welcoming reception space. We have also ensured that […]

The Doctors Said There Was Nothing More They Could Do – But Look At Her Now!   Chloe is a special little girl of five years old. She loves to dance, adores her baby sister Charlotte and has a big, kind heart. Chloe has Koolen de Vries syndrome, but that doesn’t define who she is […]

One lesser-known aspect of Montrose’s proud history is the weekly art and craft classes that were conducted through the mid-1930s to the mid-1940s. During this time, dozens of students learned the art of pottery making, leather work and raffia work, even winning awards for their efforts. In 2012, Griffith University received a generous donation of […]

          The BOQ Maroochydore Charity Golf Day had some beautiful Queensland weather, some great golf and plenty of fun along the way. Proceeds from the event at Maroochy River Golf Club are being donated to Montrose and we need to give a huge thank you to all those involved in the […]

Montrose can help you achieve your goals in many areas of your life. Here are a just a selection of ways we can help. Talk to us to find out more!   #1 Occupational Therapy Our team of occupational therapists help you to build the skills and confidence to take part in everyday activities. They can […]

For over 25 years Montrose has been supporting customers and their families in the Toowoomba region through outreach. The recent launch of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in the area allows people to access support tailored to their needs. We’re excited to announce that we have now opened a permanent office to serve the Toowoomba area. […]

In 2016, we have been working tirelessly on projects to provide a brighter future for young people with a disability, like four-year-old Elijah, whose journey with Montrose began a few years ago. Elijah’s developmental delay means he does not reach development milestones at expected times for his age. Elijah now works with several of our […]

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will be available in Toowoomba in January 2017 and in Ipswich from July 2017. To allow us to work with existing and new customers in these areas, Montrose will be opening Service Centres in both locations in the coming months. We are actively looking at office space in both […]

Montrose recently conducted a study into our Lifestyle & Leisure Program (LLP). LLP is a community-based service for young adults between 18 to 35 years of age, who reside in the Brisbane area and is the first funded adult program at Montrose. The program is open to young adults who are able to communicate, make […]

We had an amazing time at our Tuscan Tables event on the Sunshine Coast last weekend. The gourmet lunch was held at Via Italia in Mooloolaba with entertainment by Darren Percival and hosted by Todd and Sami from 92.7 Mixfm. Voice runner up in 2012, Darren Percival is a local himself and gave his all as he entertained diners with his wonderful […]

A new advert for Montrose features over 25 of our customers and an all Queensland production team. We have launched a new advertising campaign as part of our National Disability Scheme Insurance (NDIS) awareness activities. The advert is bright and fun featuring young people who use Montrose services with a voiceover by long term Montrose […]

Let me tell you about Josh Montrose has worked with Josh and his family for more than five years. He’s an amazing boy who loves his Playstation, playing soccer and comics. Josh was born with AMC (arthrogryposis multiplex congenita). This condition develops before birth and limits the mobility of joints. In Josh’s case, it’s his […]

A huge thank you to everyone who attended our Tuscan Tables event on Saturday at Cucina Vivo. We raised an amazing $22,000. Thanks in particular to Tristram Peters, who spoke about his long association with Montrose and the difference having our support has made to his life. The event was hosted by Pete Carter from […]

Generous staff at the Forest Lake Burrito Bar worked their sombreros off to raise $4400 for Montrose. Burritos were offered at a bargain $2 price tag with the full amount going to the worthwhile cause. The lengthy queues were entertained by a Mariachi Band who added to the festive feel of the day.

The former CEO of Montrose Therapy and Respite Services, Mr Darrel Bourke, received an award in the Australia Day honours list announced this week. Mr Bourke was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for service to children with a disability.