A Milestone Worth Celebrating
As we welcome 2026, we can’t help but reflect on the saying that time flies faster the older we get. It feels like only yesterday that we opened our doors to serve the local community, yet this year we celebrate an incredible milestone: 29 years of Highett Podiatry.
Nearly three decades of supporting feet, mobility, sport, comfort and quality of life for people across Bayside and beyond. We couldn’t be prouder, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
Team News: Hellos and Goodbyes
We are delighted to announce that Katrina Challis joins the leadership team as a co-director. Katrina has been a valued team member, being our clinical care co-ordinator and mentor to our Associate podiatrists and a great support to Sophie and Kirsti. Her commitment to patient care, team development and clinical excellence makes her a perfect fit to share in shaping the future of the clinic.
Change also means saying goodbye to familiar faces. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Anureet and Katrina Richards, both finishing up at the end of the month. Anureet is returning to New Zealand to continue her career in private practice, while Katrina has been appointed Head of Podiatry at Monash Health, leading a team of over 120 staff. Their hard work, compassion and dedication have supported countless patients, and we wish them every success in the next chapter of their podiatry journeys.
On a happier note, we are thrilled to welcome Sophie back from maternity leave. We know many of you have been eagerly awaiting her return, and she is excited to reconnect with her patients, old and new.
Meet Dr Peter Moate
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr Peter Moate, who joined the team in December.
With more than 30 years of clinical experience, Peter is a highly respected podiatrist known for delivering advanced, evidence-based care with a warm, practical approach.
As an Endorsed Podiatrist for Scheduled Medicines, Peter is qualified to prescribe a range of therapeutic medications and routinely performs ultrasound-guided cortisone injections to help patients manage pain, reduce inflammation and return to activity sooner.
Peter has built a strong reputation in sports podiatry, with a focus on overuse injuries, biomechanical dysfunction and lower-limb performance. He has worked with athletes at every level, from weekend runners to elite competitors, and holds Fellowship of Sports and Exercise Podiatry Australia (SEPA) – a mark of true expertise in the field.
Outside the clinic, Peter’s life is very active and coastal. He has spent over 25 years as a Surf Lifesaver at Woolamai Beach on Phillip Island and served as a Senior Air Rescue Crewman with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service for seven years. In 2025, he was honoured with Life Saving Victoria’s Beach Lifeguard of the Year. These days, he stays connected to surf sports through swim training and regular runs with his Kelpie, Max.
Introducing Our New Allied Health Assistant
Aaron Clifton has joined us as our second Podiatry Allied Health Assistant for 2026. But what exactly is an Allied Health Assistant?
At Highett Podiatry, our AHAs are final-year podiatry students trained to provide general foot care for low-risk patients at a reduced cost. They can assist with soft tissue therapy, orthotics and dressing changes, all under the supervision of our qualified podiatrists.
If you’d like to see Aaron at your next general treatment appointment, simply let our receptionist know or book online.
Summer Feet & Back to School
With summer in full swing, we’re seeing plenty of plantar fasciitis and the culprit is often the humble Aussie thong. We love them, but they offer very little arch support and long days in thongs can put serious strain on the plantar fascia.
The fix isn’t to ditch them entirely, just save them for short trips to the beach or around the pool and reach for more supportive footwear when longer walks are on the cards.
If heel pain has already crept in, we’re here to help with everything from taping and exercises to orthotics and footwear advice.
Find our guides here about choosing a good school shoe and how Highett Podiatry can support your children’s feet as they grow.