The 5 Best Orthopaedic Specialists in Newcastle to Help You Move Without Worry
It wasn’t long ago that my grandma took a tumble during one of our family games of musical chairs (she plays to win, trust me).
One slip later, she was wincing every time she tried to put weight on her ankle—and suddenly, our usual Saturday chats turned into full-on orthopaedic strategy sessions. And frankly, trying to navigate Newcastle’s world of specialists was overwhelming.
It’s hard to know who to trust when you’re talking about someone you care about. But after sorting through recommendations and reviews, we finally found an expert who got Grandma up and walking again.
That whole experience made me realise how helpful it is to have a solid list ready when you need it.
So if you’re dealing with a similar scramble, this guide to the best orthopaedic specialists in Newcastle is here to make your search easier—and to help your loved ones get back on their feet.
How much do orthopaedic specialists charge in Newcastle?
Orthopaedic specialists in Newcastle usually charge $210–$250 for an initial consultation; Medicare rebates are also available. Surgery costs vary and may involve “known gap” fees depending on procedure complexity.
1. Dr Jai Kumar
Address: Eastpoint, Building Suite 16, Level/1 50 Glebe Rd, The Junction NSW 2291
Contact Details: +61 24 047 2347
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Dr Kumar is someone you’d want on your side if you’re dealing with sports injuries. He specialises in knee and shoulder arthroscopy, such as ACL reconstruction, shoulder stabilisation, and rotator cuff repair.
And he’s not just trained locally, he also spent time in Europe working with top surgeons in Dublin and Paris.
He even collaborates closely with physiotherapists, sports doctors and other allied health professionals, ensuring you’re fully supported throughout your rehabilitation.
When you book, the first appointment feels straightforward. You’ll fill out a new patient form and complete a quick web survey to help track your rehab progress.
You’re also asked to bring your Medicare card, GP referral, scans or X-rays, and any physio notes.
Personally, I like that his surgeries are done at Lingard Private Hospital. The modern operating theatres, on-site ICU, and rehab facilities mean you’re in good hands if things get complicated.
Patients I’ve spoken to also often mentioned that he’s good at keeping the whole recovery process organised, so they always knew what stage they were at and what the next step would be.
But the only snag is the private setup. If you don’t have insurance, you’ll be paying out of pocket, not a huge issue, but something to consider.
Dr Kumar is possibly the best Orthopaedic Surgeon we have been to
“Dr Kumar is possibly the best Orthopaedic Surgeon we have been to. My husband John had a total knee replacement which has exceeded our expectations, up and walking within a very short time and within a few short months no sign of the surgery he had and now it’s my turn to see Dr Kumar, looking forward to seeing him.”
– Pam Collins, Google Review
His skills with a scalpel are second to none, providing the best outcome possible
“Jai is an amazing surgeon. His communication is on point, explaining every step of the way honest and specific to the patients needs which goes along way. His skills with a scalpel are second to none, providing the best outcome possible for the patient. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need, and reassure them that they are getting the best.”
– Joe DODDS, Google Review
2. Dewar Orthopaedic Surgeon
Address: Cooks Hill Commercial Centre, Suite 10/235 Darby St, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
Contact Details: +61 24 067 5221
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Dewar Orthopaedic is run by Associate Professor David Dewar, an expert in hip, knee, and trauma surgery. He’s a Fellow of both major surgical colleges and works at John Hunter and Lake Macquarie Private Hospitals.
His clinic handles everything from total and partial hip replacements (including the direct anterior approach) to knee repairs, ligament surgeries, and even those really tricky pelvic and acetabular traumas.
To help patients stay informed, they provide info downloads. I found these to be helpful—with consent forms, procedure details, and post-op instructions all available, it keeping everything clear.
People I know who’ve been there often bring up how easy it is to book, and that the clinic offers both face-to-face and telehealth appointments. That kind of flexibility has become a lot more important since COVID changed how we do sessions like these.
The only thing to be aware of is that, since this is a private clinic, the fees tend to be higher than what you’d pay at a public hospital.
A big thank you to Doctor Dewar and his dedicated team
“I have been extremely happy with Doctor David Dewars Total knee Replacement Surgery performed through the middle of 2025. His high level of experience and surgical skill combined with his caring nature has given me an amazing out come. 6 months down the track I am back to mountain biking, surfing and have just booked a trip to go skiing in the northern hemisphere. I couldn’t be happier with my outcome. A big thank you to Doctor Dewar and his dedicated team.”
– David, Google Review
Dr Dewar`s kindness, compassion, and skill fills you with confidence
“What can I say about this beautiful Man , Dr Dewar `s kindness , compassion and skill fills you with confidence that you are in safe hands .Dr Dewars entire team are amazing . Special Shoutout to Lake Macquarie Private Hospital , Willamson Ward your care is second to none .Highly Recommend Dr David Dewar and his Team , Kind Regards Mary Paterson”
– Michael Paterson, Google Review
3. Steven Kent Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon
Address: Cooks Hill Commercial Centre, Suite 10, Level 1/235 Darby St, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
Contact Details: +61 24 911 2303
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
If you’ve got a foot or ankle issue that really needs some expertise, Steven Kent Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon is often the name locals recommend.
And there’s a reason for that—he’s worked both in Australia and overseas, has top credentials as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, and also practices at Lake Macquarie Private Hospital.
With this kind of background, it’s no wonder people from all over NSW, including professional athletes, trust him with their care.
The clinic itself is equipped to handle just about every type of foot and ankle problem you can imagine.
Sports injuries, syndesmotic (high-ankle) sprains, Achilles issues, fractures—you name it. The team makes sure you’re supported at every step, from your first visit right through to surgery and the follow-up afterwards.
Plenty of patients have also told me that their appointments felt straightforward to understand. It’s also reassuring to hear that urgent injuries can usually be squeezed in quickly, which is a big relief when you’re hurting or can’t walk properly.
If there’s one downside, it’s that Dr Kent is in demand, so his schedule fills up fast. If you’re planning to see him, I recommend booking early.
The whole process from start to finish was so easy and smooth
“I can not speak highly enough of Steven and his team. I had a syndesmosis injury that required surgery for stabilisation. The whole process from start to finish was so easy and smooth. My recovery was so quick and I was back at work a week earlier than expected. Thanks so much to Steven and his team. Bel 😊”
– Belinda Kljajic, Google Review
I’m very happy with the outcome. Couldn’t recommend highly enough
“I gave Dr Kent’s secretary a called when stuck in JHH with emergency ankle surgery being continually cancelled. Both Dr Kent and his secretary bent over backwards to get my surgery done. I’m very happy with the outcome. Couldn’t recommend highly enough.”
– Julie McPhee, Google Review
4. Dr Minas Petrelis
Address: 52 Smith St, Charlestown NSW 2290
Contact Details: +61 24 942 1688
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Dr Minas Petrelis is a locally based orthopaedic surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. He also has hospital privileges across both private and public facilities, including Lingard Private, so the clinical reach is pretty solid.
His main focus is on upper limb conditions, especially shoulder surgery. The team supports patients from diagnosis to rehab, often coordinating with physiotherapists and other recovery services to keep the whole process connected.
To make consultations more efficient, the clinic can also arrange supplementary imaging like X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI before your appointment. That tends to speed things up, so you’re not sitting there with questions but no information to answer them.
A few people I’ve spoken with also mentioned his use of modern techniques like CT planning and 3D modelling, especially for complex shoulder replacements, saying the visual planning tools helped them better understand what would be done during surgery.
However, unlike larger multidisciplinary centres, rehabilitation isn’t offered on-site, so ongoing physio support is referred externally rather than handled under one roof.
Dr Petrelis is a great surgeon, explains things carefully and is straightforward
“Dr Petrelis is a great surgeon , explains things carefully and is straight forward , i have had 2 operations ( both elbows) my husband had a shoulder replacement 7 weeks ago .
Wish we had found Dr Petrelis 10 years ago… And the office staff are absolutely amazing , so organized with helping you book into hospital and follow up appointments after surgery . Can’t recommend Dr pertrilis high enough … 5 stars from us . 😊😊”
– Janelle Wyborn, Google Review
His follow-up on repairing injury was professional and accurate
“Having sustained a 15 mm tear in my right shoulder. I was seen by Dr Petrelis and found him knowledgeable and gained confidence in his direction for the repair and healing of my injury. His follow up on repairing injury was professional and accurate with rehabilitation I am more than happy with my results.”
– Laurie Manners, Google Review
5. Hunter Sports & Joint Replacement – Dr Ben McGrath
Address: Eastpoint Building, Suite 16, Level 2/50 Glebe Rd, The Junction NSW 2291
Contact Details: +61 24 047 2347
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – Closed
Hunter Sports & Joint Replacement, led by Dr Ben McGrath, provides comprehensive orthopaedic care. They handle everything from hip and knee replacements to shoulder repairs and complex ligament reconstructions.
Beyond elective surgery and sports medicine, Dr McGrath is also involved in trauma orthopaedics at local hospitals, which adds a practical edge to his work.
When cases get urgent or complicated, that kind of experience matters. You’re never left in the dark about your care, either.
The clinic puts a strong emphasis on patient education, so you’ll have access to helpful resources like fasting guides and surgery preparation checklists. Many patients find it reassuring to have clear instructions every step of the way.
Plus, the hand-off to anaesthetists is handled smoothly, taking some of the stress out of what can otherwise be an overwhelming process.
If there’s one minor reservation, it’s that the practice’s popularity can mean waiting times, particularly for follow-ups, aren’t always the quickest.
Based on my personal experience its next level specialist care
“Highly professional and extremely talented Orthopaedic Surgeon. Would not hesitate in recommending Dr McGrath and his team to anyone. Based on my personal experience its next level specialist care.”
– Doug Fedrick, Google Review
Dr Ben has done a magic job of bolting me back together
“I’ve managed to smash myself up a couple of times now coming off 2 wheeled sport and Dr Ben has done a magic job of bolting me back together and getting me healed sooner to get back to work and play.”
– Andrew B, Google Review