Stephen Mahony

Stephen is a Physiotherapist with over 30 years experience and is Practice Principle of Teneriffe Physiotherapy.  You can read more about his physiotherapy experience here. He became interested in Nordic Walking after trying it with Patrick Burtscher and Maree Farnsworth from Nordic Academy,  when they attended a physiotherapy conference. Always open-minded to new ideas for his practice and with a life-long love of outdoors sport and recreation, he thought Nordic Walking had so many benefits that he had to get involved. Stephen completed Nordic Academy's accredited Instructor training course, subsequently hosting the course many times at Teneriffe Physiotherapy. He is now qualified as a Master Trainer teaching Instructor training courses on behalf of Nordic Academy.

Stephen has a special interest in combining his physio knowledge of chronic conditions, injuries and rehabilitation with his knowledge of the biomechanics and benefits of Nordic Walking to help people regain movement and increase their physical activity and quality of life.

In 2014, Stephen road tested his Nordic Walking skills during a holiday in Canada which included trail walks in Stanley Park, the Cheakamus Lake Trail, the Grouse Grind, climbing Mt Gardner on Bowen Island, and through spring snow to the Tea House at Lake Louise. In 2015, Stephen needed his Nordic Walking skills to assist recovery from a broken ankle and complete several multi-day walks in Victoria.

Stephen is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, the Sports Physiotherapy Special Interest Group, and the Acupuncture & Dry Needling Special Interest Group.

Li Gao

Li's interest in Nordic Walking has grown since Stephen introduced it to her. She goes Nordic Walking every week, and she particularly enjoys the outdoor experience. She completed 10km Nordic Walks in the Bridge to Brisbane and Wynnum Twilight Fun Runs, and is looking forward to participating in more events with her Nordic Walking poles. Li became an accredited Nordic Walking Instructor in 2014. She is more than happy to share her enthusiasm for Nordic Walking with people who are interested in learning this fun skill. 

Li is a Registered Nurse in a GE Specialist Practice. She has First Aid and CPR Certificates. Li likes most outdoors activities, including bushwalking, kayaking, snorkeling, beach walks, swimming and photography.