A Kiama physiotherapist has been recognised for his contribution to the local Parkinson’s community, as part of a major health seminar that drew 80 people from across the South Coast.

Matt Cook from BaiMed Kiama received a Parkinson’s Community Award at the Holistic Approach to Parkinson’s seminar at Kiama Leagues Club on Tuesday, acknowledging his proactive support to help people manage the condition.

The seminar was organised by Parkinson’s Support Kiama and they brought together four healthcare professionals to discuss the growing need for Parkinson’s education and support across the Illawarra.

Presenters Dr Janice Taylor, Ryan Parker, Christine McGee, and Beth Causa.

Dr Janice Taylor, a geriatrician specialising in Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders provided comprehensive information about the disease, its symptoms, effects on daily life, and medications.

She also addressed important practical considerations, emphasising the importance of organising wills and making decisions about driving as symptoms progress.

Speech pathologist Beth Causa demonstrated the vital role of speech therapy in Parkinson’s management, explaining that many people with the condition will likely experience speaking difficulties at some point.

Beth engaged the audience with practical exercises, showing how speech therapy techniques can be beneficial and what’s involved.

Physiotherapists Ryan Parker and Matt Cook from BaiMed Kiama led interactive group activities including ‘Simon Says’, keeping a balloon afloat around tables, and stretching routines, demonstrating how movement can be both therapeutic and enjoyable.

Christine McGee, Education and Quality Assurance Manager from Parkinson's NSW, finished off the expert panel with insights into support services and resources.

The event showed the strong community involvement surrounding Parkinson’s Support Kiama.

The group's coordinator, Lesley Errington, said the ongoing support from the community, especially Rotary, has been greatly appreciated, particularly with their fundraising efforts.

Parkinson’s Support Kiama's coordinator, Lesley Errington.

“We have a walk in September and that's our fundraiser for the year for Parkinson’s New South Wales, and Rotary does a barbecue, and these guys come and do exercise programs,” said Lesley.

The support group, part of Parkinson’s NSW, holds monthly meetings for both people with Parkinson’s and their carers. The group has approximately 70 members but regular attendance sits around 40.

“There's quite a few people who are no longer able to come because they're in nursing homes or in care, but we still send them information,” Lesley said.

The group focuses on connecting people living with the condition, enhancing quality of life, providing support for individuals and carers, sharing information and research about the disease and keeping both body and mind active.

The seminar’s strong attendance from across the region, including Nowra, Wollongong and Bega, demonstrates the importance for specialised Parkinson’s support and education, and is reflective of Parkinson’s Support Kiama’s success.

For further information on how to get involved, contact Parkinson’s Support Kiama at [email protected].