Wisdom Exchange presentsPaediatric Osteopathy Conference
Join a community of osteopaths, shape the future of paediatrics.
26-27 November 2026 in Melbourne, Australia
Super Early Bird Registration Now Open!
Join us for an inspiring and clinically rich Paediatric Osteopathy Conference this November
Held across two dynamic days, this event brings together ten incredible presenters to share cutting-edge insights, practical techniques and real-world experience in working with infants and children. Expect a blend of evidence-informed practice, hands-on learning and meaningful discussion designed to elevate your confidence and clinical approach in paediatric care.
Why attend?
Hands-on workshops & practical sessions
Lectures from top osteopaths in infant & child health
Keynotes & case studies on neurodevelopment, feeding, and sensory systems
Networking & Gala Dinner
Sneak Peek at Our Presenters & Topics
Jorge Aranda
International Osteopath, International Keynote Speaker
Osteopathic Approach for Children with Disabilities (Lecture & Practical)
Maxwell Fraval
Canberra Osteopath, Keynote Speaker
Stay tuned for the reveal…
Julie Fendall
Sydney Osteopath
Understanding Musculoskeletal Developmental Problems in Infancy (Lecture & Practical)
Melissa McDougall
Melbourne Osteopath
Osteopathic Examination of the Infant (Lecture)
Brachycephaly & Plagiocephaly Management (Practical)
Lauren Boundy
Melbourne Osteopath
Breaking the Cycle of Poor Latch & Disrupted Sleep (Lecture)
Breastfeeding & Oral Motor Skills for Infants (Practical)
Kirsty Greenwood
Melbourne Osteopath
Neurodevelopment of Infant Feeding + Research (Lecture)
Lynsey Taylor
New Zealand Occupational Therapist
Autism, ADHD & Sensory Systems (Lecture)
Jamie Taylor
New Zealand Osteopath
Neurodiversity in Osteopathic Practice (Lecture)
Osteopathic Approaches for the Neurodivergent Child (Practical)
Thanuja Vanderhoek
Albury Osteopath
Founder Wisdom Exchange
Conference Schedule
Please note: Lectures and workshops will run concurrently throughout the conference. Session allocations for all attendees will be finalised one week prior to the event. VIP and Gala Pass holders will receive priority access when selecting their preferred sessions.
Conference Highlights
2 full days of lectures, workshops & keynote presenters
Interactive, hands-on practical learning
Networking opportunities with presenters & fellow osteopaths
Gala Dinner & priority tutorial access for VIP pass holders
Our VenueMelbourne Marriott Hotel
(cnr Exhibition & Lonsdale St)
Set in the heart of Melbourne, the Melbourne Marriott Hotel offers a prestigious and refined 5-star setting for this course. Its reputation for excellence provides an inspiring backdrop for learning and connection.
The conference package includes a full delegate experience, with morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea provided, and the hotel also hosting our gala dinner.
Preferential accommodation rates have been arranged for interstate and international attendees, should you wish to stay on-site.
The inspirationA conference dedicated to connect, inspire and educate osteopaths in the evolving world of paediatrics.
We wanted to create a collaborative and inspiring space for osteopaths who are deeply passionate about supporting infants, children and families. As the field of paediatric osteopathy continues to evolve, this conference has been designed to encourage the sharing of knowledge, clinical experience and ideas amongst practitioners committed to thoughtful, skilled and compassionate care.
Featuring Australian and International keynote speakers, lecturers and educators who are recognised leaders in paediatric osteopathy, the conference provides a unique opportunity to learn from some of the profession’s most respected voices. Through lectures, tutorials and clinical discussions, attendees will experience a safe and engaging environment that encourages deeper understanding, professional growth and meaningful collaboration within the paediatric osteopathic community.
The Gala Dinner offers an additional opportunity for attendees and lecturers to connect in an inspiring setting while celebrating the continued growth of paediatric osteopathy. Bringing together practitioners from across Australia and Internationally, the evening is designed to foster lasting professional relationships, shared conversations and a strong sense of community amongst those dedicated to advancing paediatric care.
TicketsSuper Early Bird registration is now open!
🎟️ Reserve your spot early – limited places available
The premium, all-access experience
INCLUDES:Full-day conference access
Front row reserved seating
Priority access to all workshops / tutorials
Full Delegate Package: morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea full catered
Exclusive VIP networking session with presenters
Fast-track registration & check-in
VIP gift pack / conference materials
Gala Dinner: 3-course dinner on Thursday, 26th Nov 7.30pm (premium seating)
$1650
$1490
Super Early Bird price, ends 30th June!
The complete conference experience
Includes:Full-day conference access
Access to all keynotes, panels, and sessions
Access to workshops / tutorials (standard allocation)
Full Delegate Package: morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea full catered
Networking opportunities with fellow osteopaths throughout the day
Conference materials / delegate pack
Gala Dinner: 3-course dinner on Thursday, 26th Nov 7.30pm
$1550
$1390
Super Early Bird price, ends 30th June!
Core conference access
Includes:Full-day conference access
Access to all keynotes, panels, and sessions
Access to workshops / tutorials (standard allocation)
Full Delegate Package: morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea full catered
Networking opportunities with fellow osteopaths during scheduled breaks
Conference materials / delegate pack
$1450
$1290
Super Early Bird price, ends 30th June!
5% DISCOUNT AVAILABLE for 10+ tickets — please contact us for bulk discount
All prices are in AUD and include 10% GST for Australian residents.
Our presenters
Jorge Aranda
PhD, MSc PedOST, MSc Clinical Anatomy, BSc (Hons) OstMedInternational Osteopath, International Keynote Speaker
Jorge Aranda Beltrán is an internationally recognised osteopath, humanitarian health leader and educator with more than 15 years of experience in clinical practice, osteopathic education and global community health initiatives. Known for his compassionate and integrative approach to patient care, Jorge has dedicated his career to advancing paediatric osteopathy while supporting vulnerable communities through humanitarian healthcare programs around the world.
Jorge began his academic training at the British College of Osteopathic Medicine in London, where he completed a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Osteopathic Medicine. He later undertook further specialised study in paediatric care, completing a Master of Science in Paediatric Osteopathy. During his postgraduate training, he studied under the guidance of renowned osteopath Viola Frymann, further deepening his expertise in cranial and paediatric osteopathic care.
An experienced international educator, Jorge has taught visceral, cranial and paediatric osteopathy for more than a decade at institutions including the University of Murcia in Spain, the University of Buenos Aires in Argentina and the British College of Osteopathic Medicine in the United Kingdom. His teaching and research interests include cranial biomechanics, behaviour and psychoneuroimmunology, with his research presented throughout Europe and the United States.
Jorge is also the founder and current president of the Hands With Heart Foundation, an international non-profit organisation established in 2016 that provides free multidisciplinary healthcare services to children and individuals living with disabilities in underserved communities, particularly in Bali, Indonesia. Through both his clinical and humanitarian work, Jorge remains deeply committed to improving health outcomes, empowering caregivers and advancing compassionate paediatric healthcare worldwide.
Maxwell Fraval
D.O., M.OSTEO.SC.(PAED), MEMBER OACanberra Osteopath, Keynote Speaker
Maxwell Fraval is one of Australia’s most respected and influential osteopaths in the field of paediatric osteopathy, with a career spanning decades of clinical practice, teaching and professional leadership. Originally trained at the British School of Osteopathy in London, Maxwell’s lifelong passion for osteopathy was ignited through the experience of treating his infant son, inspiring a deep commitment to supporting babies and children through osteopathic care.
Following his move to Melbourne in 1983, Maxwell became a pioneering force in paediatric osteopathy in Australia. His extensive postgraduate studies and clinical work have focused on supporting infants and children experiencing challenges including birth trauma, colic and reflux, gait and postural issues, dental occlusion concerns and learning difficulties. His approach emphasises collaborative care, integrating osteopathy alongside conventional medical treatment and other supportive therapies to best support the health and development of children.
Maxwell has played a significant role in shaping osteopathic education both nationally and internationally. He has taught undergraduate and postgraduate students throughout Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, New Zealand and Europe, and is a founding member of the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation of Australia and New Zealand. In 1993, he pioneered Australia’s first Master’s degree program in Osteopathic Paediatrics at RMIT University in Melbourne, helping establish a new generation of osteopaths dedicated to paediatric care.
A passionate educator and mentor, Maxwell has also facilitated his annual Osteopathic Summer School since 1999, supporting senior osteopathic students as they transition into professional practice. His enduring commitment to osteopathy is grounded in a desire to help children and adults achieve their fullest potential through therapies that support optimal body function, health and wellbeing.
Julie Fendall
D.O., M.OstEO.Sc(Paeds)Sydney Osteopath
Julie Fendall is a very experienced osteopath, educator, and international speaker with over four decades of clinical practice. She trained at the British School of Osteopathy in London and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Paediatrics at RMIT University.
Practising in Sydney, Julie’s clinical work focuses on supporting newborns, infants, children, and adolescents, alongside providing care for women during pregnancy and the postnatal period. She is particularly known for her contributions to paediatric osteopathy and women’s health.
Julie delivers postgraduate education throughout Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. Her teaching explores how intrauterine life, the birth process, and early neonatal experiences influence musculoskeletal development, neurological function, and long-term health outcomes.
Her approach integrates Osteopathy in the Cranial Field, Balanced Ligamentous Tension, and Myofascial Release, presented with clarity, depth, and clinical relevance. Passionate about education and mentorship, Julie supports practitioners in developing skilled palpation, strong clinical reasoning, and confident application of osteopathic principles in practice. Julie’s presentation for this Paediatric Conference will explore; How Developmental Problems in Infancy Develop. Discussing musculoskeletal problems that commonly present in infancy e.g. Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip, Talipes Equino Varus, Spinal Anomalies & Plagiocephaly.
Melissa McDougall
M.H.Sc(Osteo), D.P.O., I.B.C.L.C Advanced Paediatric Osteopath (2021-24, 2025-29)Melbourne Osteopath
Melissa McDougall is an Advanced Paediatric Osteopath with almost 20 years of clinical experience supporting infants, young children, and their families. She completed the Diploma of Paediatric Osteopathy in the United Kingdom, where she trained alongside osteopaths with more than 40 years of experience. Melissa is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), bringing a unique multidisciplinary perspective to infant care.
As the founder of the multidisciplinary practice Growing Bones, Melissa has mentored many osteopaths transitioning into paediatric practice. Her advanced training spans early identification of infants at risk of cerebral palsy, the Early Start Denver Model for autism, breastfeeding support, orofacial myology, primitive reflex integration, and therapeutic listening.
In September 2025, Melissa launched her first paediatric course, Baby Moves: Healthy, Strong, Symmetrical—an osteopathic approach to settling, plagiocephaly, feeding, and motor skill development.
Lauren Boundy
M.H.Sc (Osteo), B.Sci (Clin.Sci), Cert IV Breastfeeding Education (Counselling)Melbourne Osteopath
Lauren is the passionate founder of Osteopathy Connections and also incorporates Breastfeeding Education & Counselling, & Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in her practice.
Lauren's interest areas include:
Supporting mums & bubs with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding difficulties
Treatment for infants including torticollis, plagiocephaly, birth trauma/strain, movement or stiffness concerns
Tongue tie, lip tie and poor chewing skills for infants and toddlers; and support for older kids, teens & adults
Paediatric Osteopathy for complaints such as movement concerns, posture, growing pains, asymmetry
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for children & teens (especially those undergoing orthodontic care)
Pregnancy care and Post-natal care for mums, including mastitis support
Headaches and TMJ pain
Craniosacral therapy and breathing education – all ages
Kirsty Greenwood
M.H.Sc (Osteo), PhD Candidate SCUMelbourne Osteopath
Kirsty Greenwood is an experienced osteopath with over 20 years in clinical practice, with a strong focus on paediatric, perinatal and women’s health. She is an Advanced Paediatric Osteopath and founder of Whole Body Health where she provides holistic, evidence informed care for babies, children and families. Her clinical work centres on infant feeding challenges, birth related strain patterns and more complex presentations. She is also a co-founder of and Feed Move Thrive with Dentist Philip Hand, a teaching platform for education in the infant feeding space.
Kirsty holds a Master of Health Science in Osteopathy and a Master of Research in Paediatric and Maternal Health. She is currently a PhD candidate within the Faculty of Health at Southern Cross University. Her research focuses on the role of osteopathic care in supporting breastfeeding outcomes, particularly where infants present with musculoskeletal dysfunction that may affect latch and feeding.
She is the lead investigator on a current randomised controlled trial examining osteopathic care in conjunction with lactation consultant support compared with lactation care alone for infants experiencing breastfeeding difficulties. This work builds on her previous research, including a retrospective case series demonstrating improvements in breastfeeding confidence, latch and maternal comfort following osteopathic care.
Kirsty’s approach reflects a whole person and whole family philosophy, combining hands on treatment, feeding support and education to assist families navigating complex or persistent breastfeeding and infant developmental challenges.
Through both her clinical practice and research, Kirsty is committed to contributing to the evidence base for osteopathy in infant feeding and to improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
Lynsey Taylor
Occupational Therapist BSc (Hons)New Zealand Occupational Therapist
Originally from the UK and trained as an Occupational Therapist, Lynsey moved to Palmerston North with her husband, Jamie. Together, they are parents to two neurodivergent teenage sons—a lived experience that deeply informs and motivates her professional work.
Lynsey’s practice has been dedicated to inclusive education within New Zealand for over 15 years. During this time, she and Jamie have worked together to share their collective knowledge of child development, neurodivergence, and developmental delay across both New Zealand and Australia.
Currently, Lynsey serves as the Clinical Lead for a high school department specializing in high and very high needs (ORRS). In this role, she manages a multidisciplinary team of specialists, focusing on clinical excellence and neuroaffirming practices. She remains deeply passionate about hands-on work, including sensory music groups, movement programs for coordination, and fostering social communication and emotional literacy to help every young person reach their full potential.
Jamie Taylor
M.Sc (Osteo)New Zealand Osteopath
Jamie Taylor trained at the European School of Osteopathy, (ESO) in Maidstone, England, 1990-1994.
During his final year he began to enjoy working with newborns and pregnant mothers. He very quickly began to see the importance of taking the trauma out of childbirth for mothers and postpartum distress in babies. When he graduated he worked in London at the Osteopathic Centre for children where this conviction grew. In 1997 he began assisting on the undergraduate Osteopathic technique classes at the ESO and clinical supervision in the undergraduate children's clinic, where he stayed until he moved back to NZ in 2005. He moved back to New Zealand in November 2005 after completing his masters in Osteopathy.
Jamie’s practice is predominantly focused on babies and pregnancy and postnatal mothers.
Thanuja Vanderhoek
M.Osteo, B.App.Sc.(Osteo), Grad Cert Neonatal & Infant Paed Manual TherapyAlbury Osteopath
Thanuja Vanderhoek graduated with Bachelor and Research Master’s degrees in Sydney and has undertaken extensive postgraduate studies in Osteopathy in the Cranial Field. She has also completed a Graduate Certificate in Manual Therapy for Neonatal and Infant Paediatrics at Victoria University. She has additionally undertaken training in primitive reflex integration, further supporting her clinical work with infants and children.
She is the Founder and Managing Director of Wisdom Exchange, an educational platform supporting osteopathic and allied health learning, and the Founder and Director of Inspire Health Albury, a multidisciplinary allied health practice in regional NSW.
In her early career, Thanuja worked in Sydney for over 10 years, receiving referrals from general practitioners, allied health practitioners, midwives, doulas, lactation consultants, and obstetricians. For the last 15 years, she has also been working in regional New South Wales with a strong clinical focus on paediatrics, pregnancy and women’s health. Over the years, she has presented to allied health professionals and osteopaths on paediatric and women’s health topics, and has also been involved in running postgraduate osteopathic education courses for practitioners.
She combines extensive postgraduate training with substantial clinical experience, bringing a particular focus to neonatal and infant care. Her approach is grounded in holistic, compassionate, and family-centred care.
As a mother of three children aged 19, 17 and 4, Thanuja brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work with babies, children, and families. She also experienced the loss of a baby in 2017, an experience that has deepened her understanding of pregnancy, birth, and the emotional journey of baby loss for families.
Inspired by her Sri Lankan heritage, she holds a long-term vision of establishing a clinic in Sri Lanka to provide free osteopathic care for children and families in need.
FAQs
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26 CPD points for the conference only
30 CPD points for the conference + gala dinner
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Yes! Accommodations are available at a special conference rate, with delegates receiving 10% off the hotel’s best available online rate.
To make a booking, please contact Royston Devaraj, Senior Sales Manager, at Royston.Devaraj@marriott.com and quote that you are attending the Wisdom Exchange Conference to access the discounted rate.
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There are two Marriott Hotels in Melbourne. This one is located at:
Melbourne Marriott Hotel
Corner Exhibition &, Lonsdale St
Melbourne, VIC 3000 -
Email hello@wisdomexchange.com.au if you have any questions.
On the day of the conference, if you need to contact someone urgently, contact Thanuja Vanderhoek on 0418164174
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Cancellation Policy
• Cancellations received on or before 31 August 2026 will receive a full refund, less a $150 administration fee.
• Cancellations received between 1 September and 31 October 2026 will receive a 50% refund.
• Cancellations received on or after 1 November 2026 are non-refundable.
• Registrations may be transferred to another attendee at no additional cost up to 14 days prior to the conference, subject to notification in writing.
• If the conference is cancelled by the organisers, all registration fees will be refunded in full.
• The organisers are not responsible for travel, accommodation, or other costs incurred by attendees.
