Girl applying sunscreen to her nose.

Our practice

We are committed to providing the best quality care, in a holistic manner with a focus on the individual. Our team will help guide you along your treatment pathway, and provide all information required to make an informed choice about your ongoing care. We encourage our patients to ask questions and be an active participant in their treatment. We respect our patient’s privacy and ensure utmost discretion at all times.

Learn more about your doctors and the team

Your doctors

Dr Nikki Elkerton

BMedSci MBBS FRACGP DipSkinCancerMed/Surg (SCCA)
Dr Nikki Elkerton

Nikki is a graduate of the University of Tasmania and is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

Nikki worked for 13 years as a general practitioner in Tasmania and the United Kingdom and in that time developed a special interest in the diagnosis and management of skin cancer. Nikki completed certificates in skin cancer management and dermatoscopy through the Skin Cancer College Australasia (SCCA), and began assisting a plastic surgeon in plastic and reconstructive surgery to learn more about skin cancer surgery, particularly the use of skin flaps and skin grafts. Since 2010, Nikki has worked full-time in the area of skin cancer treatment.

Nikki has achieved a Diploma of Skin Cancer Medicine and Surgery from the Skin Cancer College Australasia and is continuing to study. Nikki is involved in teaching GPs dermatoscopy and skin cancer management.

Nikki uses a holistic approach to the management of skin cancers, involving evidence-based preventative medicine, along with non-surgical and surgical treatments as indicated.

Dr Tristan Johnson

BMedSci MBBS(Hons) MMed(Skin Cancer) FRACGP
Dr Tristan Johnson

Tristan graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Sciences, followed by a Medical Bachelor / Bachelor of Surgery with Honours from the University of Tasmania in 2009. He subsequently achieved Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) before commencing practice in Tasmania. He has worked in many Tasmanian clinics for a number of years.

A passion for skin cancer diagnosis and management lead to an Advanced Certificate in Dermatoscopy, followed by a Masters Degree with Dean’s Commendation from the University of Queensland. Today he holds a senior lecturer position with the University of Queensland and teaches General Practice Registrar’s Surgical Skills within General Practice Training Tasmania’s STITCH program.

Outside work, Tristan pursues landscape photography, furniture carpentry, and is an enthusiastic mountain biker (when time permits) alongside raising three young children.

Dr Amy O’Brien

BMedSci MBBS(Hons) FRACGP
Dr Amy O’Brien

Dr Amy O’Brien graduated from Medicine at the University of Tasmania in 2000. She spent many years working in Emergency Medicine in Hobart, Melbourne and then London. Amy returned to Australia to commence General Practice training in 2007.

With her passion for procedural work, Amy developed an early interest in Skin Cancer Medicine within General Practice. Her expertise and niche interest evolved over the subsequent decade with ongoing subspecialty training, including courses in Dermatology, Skin Cancer Medicine as well as many aspects of Aesthetics.

For several years, Amy has worked solely in the area of Skin, Skin Cancer and Aesthetic Medicine. From 2021 Amy has amalgamated her work under one roof and is available full time at Macquarie Skin Clinic. Amy continues to offer surveillance and management (both surgical and nonsurgical) of skin cancers and precancerous change as well as management of benign skin conditions. The practice has purchased state-of-the-art Candela™ Lasers to support Amy’s work in laser management of several skin conditions, including both medical and cosmetic applications. Amy also provides injectable treatments including antiwrinkle, filler, and double chin treatments.

Amy enjoys working with her patients, providing a supportive environment where every individual’s concerns are heard and needs addressed.

Outside of work Amy enjoys spending time with her husband, driving her three children to their multiple activities, and walking Saba the Golden Retriever. You may find her doing Pilates or jogging before the sun comes up!

Amy is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and a member of the Australian College of Phlebology (ACP) and the Skin Cancer College Australasia (SCCA).

Dr Chris Walsh

BMedSci MBBS MMed(Skin Cancer) FRACGP
Dr Chris Walsh

Born and raised in Tasmania, Chris is a University of Tasmania graduate. Chris’ hospital training focused on basic surgical training and emergency medicine, progressing to general practice training and achieving Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Over ten years working as a GP, Chris developed an interest in small procedures in a general practice setting and has taught these skills and procedures to medical students and GP trainees. He has a special interest in skin cancer medicine and surgery. He completed a Diploma with the Skin Cancer College Australasia (SCCA), of which he is a current member, followed by a Masters Degree in Skin Cancer Medicine and Surgery from the University of Queensland.

Chris has previously worked as a surgical assistant with a plastic surgery practice for 15 years and has learned many approaches to surgical skin cancer management including the use of flap repairs and skin grafts. Chris believes in a holistic approach to patient care and encourages patients to be involved in making informed decisions regarding their treatment. Macquarie Skin Clinic patients will benefit from Chris’ patient-centred team approach, with involvement of the plastic surgeon and colleague’s aesthetic medicine skills when necessary.

Outside medicine, Chris is married with five daughters and three grandchildren and enjoys being a dance-dad, spending time fly fishing, and relaxing with family.

Mr Andrew Castley

BMedSci(Hons) MBBS(Hons) FRACS(Plast)
Mr Andrew Castley, BMedSci(Hons) MBBS(Hons) FRACS(Plast)
Mr Andrew Castley, BMedSci(Hons) MBBS(Hons) FRACS(Plast)

Mr Andrew Castley graduated with honours from the University of Tasmania in 2000. After initially training in general surgery, he was awarded his Fellowship in Plastic Surgery from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2011. Mr Castley returned to Tasmania with his wife and four children in 2012 to take up a position at the Royal Hobart Hospital as the Director of the Burns Unit.

Mr Castley has a keen interest in all facets of plastic surgery with a main focus on skin cancer and hand surgery. Mr Castley also has a special interest in breast surgery, both cosmetic and reconstructive. Through his training and post Fellowship years Mr Castley has developed the skills required to perform all forms of reconstruction — both autologous (using your own tissue) and implant based.

The team

Practice Manager Louise Bardwell

Louise Bardwell, Practice Manager

Louise has worked in the health industry for over 20 years. She has held a variety of positions in Tasmanian Hospitals and specialist practices. Since 2006 she has worked in the plastic and reconstructive area as Practice Manager. She delivers service with compassion and quality care to our patients.

Clinical Nurse Co‑ordinator Janelle Vickery

Janelle Vickery, Clinical Nurse Co-ordinator

Janelle is a Registered Nurse with over 20 years’ experience in many different areas of nursing. She enjoys being part of the Macquarie Plastic Surgery collaborative team assisting patients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Practice Nurse Nika Bennett

Nika Bennett, Practice Nurse

Nika is an experienced Theatre Nurse specialising in plastics. She enjoys providing friendly and comprehensive care for patients throughout their surgical journey.

Practice Nurse Tania Lockley

Tania Lockley, Practice Nurse

Tania is a Registered Nurse specialising in perioperative nursing, with a special interest in plastics and oral and maxillofacial surgery. She endeavours to give the best quality care and keep our patients smiling with her bubbly personality.

Aesthetic Nurse/Practice Nurse Sally Walters

Sally Walters, Practice Nurse

Sally is a Registered Nurse and assists the doctors with surgical procedures and postoperative patient management. Her expertise extends to aesthetic work, including injectables, laser treatment and skin peels. She brings a caring and cheerful nature to all of her work.

Practice Nurse Alice Fischer

Alice Fischer, Practice Nurse

Alice is a Registered Nurse with 25 years’ experience working as a practice nurse for plastic surgery clinics in Adelaide, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. She has a special interest in wound care and enjoys assisting patients pre and post operatively with all aspects of their care.

Dermal Therapist Melissa Stokes

Melissa Stokes, Dermal Therapist

Melissa comes from the aesthetic industry with over 20 years’ experience in skin care, laser treatments, microneedling and medical grade peels. She provides her patients with a wealth of knowledge to ensure patients have the best experience possible.

Dermal Therapist Reanna Carroll

Reanna Carroll, Dermal Therapist

Reanna has over 15 years’ experience in the aesthetic industry. She is highly skilled in laser treatments, IPL, medical grade peels, micro needling and LED light therapy. She is especially passionate about cosmeceutical skin care and its role in supporting overall skin health and optimising her patient’s treatment results.

Medical Administration Gina Sward

Gina Sward, Medical Administration

Gina has worked in a variety of roles in the medical industry since 2006, including working in plastic and reconstructive practices. She provides our patients with quality care in a professional environment.

Medical Administration Jo Deak

Jo Deak, Medical Administration

Jo has previous administration experience in surgical oncology and a variety of departments for numerous years at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Jo will ensure you have the information and appointments you need in a kind and compassionate manner.

Medical Administration Ava Krzyzanowski

Ava Krzyzanowski, Medical Administration

Ava comes from a background of hospital administration including involvement in accreditation processes. Ava has a keen interest in plastic surgery and aesthetics. Her caring nature will ensure that you receive excellent patient care.

Medical Administration Jorja Adams

Jorja Adams, Medical Administration

Jorja has previously worked in various hospital administration roles, but most recently in private practice. Outside work she enjoys bike riding and spending time with family and friends. She is interested in skin care, particularly treatments for aging skin, and aesthetics.