Meet the Staff
Managing Director of Determined2®
Founder of Immersion Therapy™
You might say I have spent my entire life preparing to start with Determined2. Faced with many challenges in life, I have often wondered why me? It has become quite evident that all these experiences had forged my determination and made me Determined2.The company’s values and beliefs are all based on the lived experience and the fact that ‘we are never defined by the challenges we face rather the ways in which we choose to face them’. My role within the company is a very broad one and I have learnt that 24 hours in one day just isn’t enough. I am continuously striving to build a strong durable future for Determined2, my staff and those who love attending the service.I have found a real passion for disrupting the status quo and I enjoy seeing the system being challenged which will always lead to better outcomes for those within it. I enjoy nothing more than the time I get to spend delivering the service. It not only offers me food for my soul watching awesome people doing awesome things but offers me a place of tranquility in an otherwise noisy world. For the first time in my life I have purpose, fulfilment and endless drive, a dangerous combination for any competitor.The future plans for Determined2 is to grow large and do it loudly. I am focused on success in every way. I would like to see the successes of Determined2 at a point where it can support community on a much grander scale. Someone once said to me “pay it forward Pete” and that’s exactly what I intend on doing.
Finance and Administration
Hi, my name is Amy. My role with D2 in accounts/administration is mostly done behind the scenes though you will see me from time to time poolside as I love meeting the wonderful people that are a part of the D2 community. I have been with D2 from day one so I have been fortunate to be a part of the journey from its humble beginnings to where it is today.I’m excited to see what the future holds for D2, with its dedicated staff, amazing client’s and the ongoing support from the community, we can continue to grow and expand, giving more individuals the opportunity to access this incredible, innovative service.
Immersion Therapy Specialist
My name is John Przybylo, Head of Service Delivery for Determined 2 & Immersion Therapy Specialist. My journey with Determined2 began with me being referred to the Immersion Therapy service after a leg injury. The injury saw me being redirected from a long & exciting career as an offshore commercial diver to a person with a passion for services of inclusion. All thanks to my chance meeting with Determined2.With my long established skill set in the sub-sea industry, coupled with Determined 2’s beautiful concept of SCUBA assisted therapy have allowed an amazing amount of personal growth & growth within the Immersion Therapy service. Determined2 has gifted me the opportunity of participating in the innovation & development of the higher needs client program of Immersion Therapy.It has been my personal experience after taking part in the Immersion Therapy service that Determined2 can disclose the coordinates of your personal ‘elephant in the room’, using the most equalising combination of elements, H2O. As humans, water is the most perfect of equalisers. All humans are of limited ability in the water. It is up to the individual to find their own super power in such equilibrium. Determined2 is your journey beyond personal boundaries.
Immersion Therapy Specialist
I moved to Australia from New Zealand in 2012 to pursue a career as a Scuba Diving Instructor. When I was asked to help with the development of Determined2 and Immersion Therapy, I jumped at the opportunity to do something new and exciting. I am now responsible for training and am looking forward to taking Immersion Therapy around the country and the world.
Client Relations
I was a participant of Immersion Therapy for over a year before becoming a member of the staff in Customer Relations. I am also a certified Youth Worker with extensive knowledge and experience with community engagement, consumer lead project management and mentor programs in the youth and disability space. I assist D2, and their participants, with NDIS readiness as the scheme rolls out nationwide. I use my own experience of disability and as a participant of Immersion Therapy to strengthen D2’s service, which is extremely valuable.I continue to attend my own Immersion Therapy sessions once a week. I would like to see this world first therapy expanded to other states and territories, and even other parts of the world, so that more people can get as much out of the service as I have.
Development Team
Hey, my name is Ben Everson and I was the very first participant during the development of Determined2 and am now acting in the role of ‘Client Relations’. I hope that everyone at D2 as a whole can achieve and deliver an irreplaceable experience in the present and future of this world first service to all involved, and drink beers. Peace.
Development Team
I was a participant of Immersion Therapy for over a year before becoming a member of the staff in Customer Relations. I use my own experience of disability and as a participant of Immersion Therapy to strengthen D2’s service, which is extremely valuable.I would like to see this world first therapy expanded to other states and territories, and even other parts of the world, so that more people can get as much out of the program as I have.
OAM
Development Team
Water has always meant freedom to me ever since I was a child. The ability to move in any direction with the only limit being how much air you can hold in your lungs. SCUBA gear allows me to do so much more now. I acquired my disability when I was 9 months old from a tumor on my spine (incomplete paraplegic) and with further complications my right leg (above knee) was amputated when I was 11yo.My first job out of high school was with the Education Department teaching aquatics at West Lakes. With an extensive history in a couple of different sports, attendance at multiple World Championships and Paralympics, this has given me great experience that I’m proud to pass on to Determined2’s Immersion Therapy.
Development Team
In 2015, I heard that a new organisation, which has evolved to become Determined2, was looking for volunteers to try a controlled scuba experience, I jumped at this perfect opportunity. I grew up loving the water and all water sports, above and below the water, and this was the perfect opportunity to get back to what I loved.Getting below the water that first time was a moment I will never forget. The complete sense of weightlessness and freedom was something I had not experienced since my paralysis. This evolved to my position as part of the development team assisting the formation of what has evolved to be the successful Immersion Therapy program enabling people of all abilities to experience the benefits of being underwater in a controlled experience.I love being involved with Determined2 as I am dedicated to being an active and engaging role model for people living with a disability to live the life they love through research, advocacy, mentoring and actively engaging in sport and recreational activities because I believe that there is a powerful connection to what we do and enjoy in life regardless of physical or intellectual ability because everyone should get the chance to participate, perform and connect.I would strongly encourage everyone to get involved with the service as it has so much to offer for those of all abilities.
Bridgett McDonald
Editor / Administration
I first met the team of Determined2 when I started as a client of the service in June 2017. Being a part of such an innovative idea, and having the help I need to enjoy the water and get moving, has changed my life. In a previous life, I spent time in admin/customer service roles, freelance editing, and presenting to various groups in the community about the NDIS and its purpose. In February 2018, I joined the staff as resident Editor and General Word Guru, and I am moving into admin support. My direct experience as a client of the service has helped me in both these roles because I can understand Immersion Therapy, and Determined2, from the inside out. I love that I can continue as a client of Determined2 as well as being a part of the devoted team, building on such an individual, welcoming, quality service. I hope to see it grow beyond our wildest dreams, and for it to be an example to the world of a service that truly is person-first.
Ellie McInerney
Apprentice
I started with Determined2 as a client. I heard about D2 through a physio who I was seeing. I have never looked back on this experience. I enjoy it so much. I love working with the staff who are really positive. My role with D2 is an apprenticeship. I hope to one day work here as full time. I hope D2 goes worldwide and helps everyone and anyone that needs to get away from the stress of their disability and wants freedom.
Meet the Staff
Managing Director of Determined2®
Founder of Immersion Therapy™
You might say I have spent my entire life preparing to start with Determined2. Faced with many challenges in life, I have often wondered why me? It has become quite evident that all these experiences had forged my determination and made me Determined2.The company’s values and beliefs are all based on the lived experience and the fact that ‘we are never defined by the challenges we face rather the ways in which we choose to face them’. My role within the company is a very broad one and I have learnt that 24 hours in one day just isn’t enough. I am continuously striving to build a strong durable future for Determined2, my staff and those who love attending the service.I have found a real passion for disrupting the status quo and I enjoy seeing the system being challenged which will always lead to better outcomes for those within it. I enjoy nothing more than the time I get to spend delivering the service. It not only offers me food for my soul watching awesome people doing awesome things but offers me a place of tranquility in an otherwise noisy world. For the first time in my life I have purpose, fulfilment and endless drive, a dangerous combination for any competitor.The future plans for Determined2 is to grow large and do it loudly. I am focused on success in every way. I would like to see the successes of Determined2 at a point where it can support community on a much grander scale. Someone once said to me “pay it forward Pete” and that’s exactly what I intend on doing.
Finance and Administration
Hi, my name is Amy. My role with D2 in accounts/administration is mostly done behind the scenes though you will see me from time to time poolside as I love meeting the wonderful people that are a part of the D2 community. I have been with D2 from day one so I have been fortunate to be a part of the journey from its humble beginnings to where it is today.I’m excited to see what the future holds for D2, with its dedicated staff, amazing client’s and the ongoing support from the community, we can continue to grow and expand, giving more individuals the opportunity to access this incredible, innovative service.
Immersion Therapy Specialist
My name is John Przybylo, Head of Service Delivery for Determined 2 & Immersion Therapy Specialist. My journey with Determined2 began with me being referred to the Immersion Therapy service after a leg injury. The injury saw me being redirected from a long & exciting career as an offshore commercial diver to a person with a passion for services of inclusion. All thanks to my chance meeting with Determined2.With my long established skill set in the sub-sea industry, coupled with Determined 2’s beautiful concept of SCUBA assisted therapy have allowed an amazing amount of personal growth & growth within the Immersion Therapy service. Determined2 has gifted me the opportunity of participating in the innovation & development of the higher needs client program of Immersion Therapy.It has been my personal experience after taking part in the Immersion Therapy service that Determined2 can disclose the coordinates of your personal ‘elephant in the room’, using the most equalising combination of elements, H2O. As humans, water is the most perfect of equalisers. All humans are of limited ability in the water. It is up to the individual to find their own super power in such equilibrium. Determined2 is your journey beyond personal boundaries.
Immersion Therapy Specialist
I moved to Australia from New Zealand in 2012 to pursue a career as a Scuba Diving Instructor. When I was asked to help with the development of Determined2 and Immersion Therapy, I jumped at the opportunity to do something new and exciting. I am now responsible for training and am looking forward to taking Immersion Therapy around the country and the world.
Client Relations
I was a participant of Immersion Therapy for over a year before becoming a member of the staff in Customer Relations. I am also a certified Youth Worker with extensive knowledge and experience with community engagement, consumer lead project management and mentor programs in the youth and disability space. I assist D2, and their participants, with NDIS readiness as the scheme rolls out nationwide. I use my own experience of disability and as a participant of Immersion Therapy to strengthen D2’s service, which is extremely valuable.I continue to attend my own Immersion Therapy sessions once a week. I would like to see this world first therapy expanded to other states and territories, and even other parts of the world, so that more people can get as much out of the service as I have.
Development Team
Hey, my name is Ben Everson and I was the very first participant during the development of Determined2 and am now acting in the role of ‘Client Relations’. I hope that everyone at D2 as a whole can achieve and deliver an irreplaceable experience in the present and future of this world first service to all involved, and drink beers. Peace.
Development Team
I was a participant of Immersion Therapy for over a year before becoming a member of the staff in Customer Relations. I use my own experience of disability and as a participant of Immersion Therapy to strengthen D2’s service, which is extremely valuable.I would like to see this world first therapy expanded to other states and territories, and even other parts of the world, so that more people can get as much out of the program as I have.
OAM
Development Team
Water has always meant freedom to me ever since I was a child. The ability to move in any direction with the only limit being how much air you can hold in your lungs. SCUBA gear allows me to do so much more now. I acquired my disability when I was 9 months old from a tumor on my spine (incomplete paraplegic) and with further complications my right leg (above knee) was amputated when I was 11yo.My first job out of high school was with the Education Department teaching aquatics at West Lakes. With an extensive history in a couple of different sports, attendance at multiple World Championships and Paralympics, this has given me great experience that I’m proud to pass on to Determined2’s Immersion Therapy.
Development Team
In 2015, I heard that a new organisation, which has evolved to become Determined2, was looking for volunteers to try a controlled scuba experience, I jumped at this perfect opportunity. I grew up loving the water and all water sports, above and below the water, and this was the perfect opportunity to get back to what I loved.Getting below the water that first time was a moment I will never forget. The complete sense of weightlessness and freedom was something I had not experienced since my paralysis. This evolved to my position as part of the development team assisting the formation of what has evolved to be the successful Immersion Therapy program enabling people of all abilities to experience the benefits of being underwater in a controlled experience.I love being involved with Determined2 as I am dedicated to being an active and engaging role model for people living with a disability to live the life they love through research, advocacy, mentoring and actively engaging in sport and recreational activities because I believe that there is a powerful connection to what we do and enjoy in life regardless of physical or intellectual ability because everyone should get the chance to participate, perform and connect.I would strongly encourage everyone to get involved with the service as it has so much to offer for those of all abilities.
Shelley Snijders
Immersion Therapy Specialist
My journey began with D2 as a volunteer. I am now a part of the D2 family as an Immersion Therapy Specialist. My role enables me to see firsthand the benefits this service provides. There’s just nothing like it! And there’re still so many people that don’t know about it. I’d like to see D2 to be known and available all over the country!
Bridgett McDonald
Editor / Administration
I first met the team of Determined2 when I started as a client of the service in June 2017. Being a part of such an innovative idea, and having the help I need to enjoy the water and get moving, has changed my life. In a previous life, I spent time in admin/customer service roles, freelance editing, and presenting to various groups in the community about the NDIS and its purpose. In February 2018, I joined the staff as resident Editor and General Word Guru, and I am moving into admin support. My direct experience as a client of the service has helped me in both these roles because I can understand Immersion Therapy, and Determined2, from the inside out. I love that I can continue as a client of Determined2 as well as being a part of the devoted team, building on such an individual, welcoming, quality service. I hope to see it grow beyond our wildest dreams, and for it to be an example to the world of a service that truly is person-first.
Ellie McInerney
Apprentice
I started with Determined2 as a client. I heard about D2 through a physio who I was seeing. I have never looked back on this experience. I enjoy it so much. I love working with the staff who are really positive. My role with D2 is an apprenticeship. I hope to one day work here as full time. I hope D2 goes worldwide and helps everyone and anyone that needs to get away from the stress of their disability and wants freedom.
