The 5 Orthopaedic Specialists Gold Coast Locals Turn to for Better Movement
A few months ago, my cousin took a hard fall during a weekend soccer game. At first, it seemed like a normal sports injury, but the pain kept getting worse.
Soon, he was limping everywhere, and even climbing the stairs felt impossible. What was most frustrating was how many clinics he bounced between, each with a different opinion.
Seeing how overwhelming this process was, I took it upon myself to do the research and help him find the best care. Once we found the right specialist, he finally started to improve.
Now, I’m sharing this list to make things a little easier for anyone going through a similar situation. If you want to skip the stress and find real solutions, start with these top orthopaedic specialists in Gold Coast.
How much do orthopaedic specialists charge in the Gold Coast?
Orthopaedic specialists in the Gold Coast usually charge $190–$470 for an initial consultation, while follow-up visits range from $90–$165. Fees depend on the specialist and clinic.
1. Dr Laurence McEntee
Address: Suite 6.5B Pacific Private Clinic, 123 Nerang St, QLD 4215
Contact Details: +61 75 613 2065
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Dr McEntee is an assistant professor at Bond University with sub-speciality training in spine surgery, consulting from the Southport clinic and operating at Gold Coast Private Hospital.
His work spans everything from everyday back and neck pain to more complex conditions such as scoliosis, trauma, and spinal tumours.
During consultations, he usually starts with a thorough assessment, followed by a straightforward discussion of treatment options.
Patient education is also an important part of his care; that’s why he provides downloadable resources on his website so you can make better, well-informed decisions.
People have found them useful in understanding both the condition and what to expect from treatment.
Whether the plan involves conservative care, disc replacement, or minimally invasive surgery, many often report that Dr McEntee’s thoughtful planning leads to smoother recoveries.
While the clinic doesn’t have a large in-house rehab team, patients can access a network of physiotherapy and rehabilitation partners, with guidance provided to help coordinate therapy outside the clinic.
I felt so safe in his hands and I am now 3 weeks post-op and all my pain is gone
“I have just received the best care from Dr Laurence McEntee and his wonderful staff, especially Jennifer Love. Combined with the wonderful facilities at Pindara Hospital, I finally have my life back again. Spinal surgery was the last thing I expected when I presented at ED at Pindara. But a decision by Dr Matthew Scott-Young and Dr McEntee saw my surgery performed promptly and expertly. I felt so safe in his hands and I am now 3 weeks post-op and all my pain is gone (just residual pain that you would expect after surgery obviously). But I am walking more now than I probably did prior to surgery haha. If I ever needed neurosurgery in my future, I would place my life back in Dr McEntee’s hands without a second thought.”
– Barbara Hadley, Google Review
Dr McEntee such a good man, a true professional
“Dr McEntee such a good man, a true professional. Guided me through the crazy stuff going on and obvious need for intervention was all done within 2 weeks. I’m a fitness nut and back into it 2 weeks post op! Jackie and Jennifer – thank you ladies you are fantastic :)”
– Andrew Lawson, Google Review
2. Dr Lochlin Brown
Address: Pacific Private Hospital, Suite 8 level 6/123 Nerang St, QLD 4215
Contact Details: +61 75 528 5705
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
With a strong reputation in the Gold Coast, Dr Brown specialises in hip and knee surgery and sports and trauma injuries.
I’ve even heard he’s worked as a medical officer for the Gold Coast Suns and other AFL teams, which adds a practical edge to his sports medicine experience.
And Dr Brown doesn’t just do elective surgery; he also manages upper and lower extremity fractures, so he’s comfortable handling acute trauma as well as planned joint replacements.
There’s a wide choice of treatment options here. You’ll find minimally invasive and robot-assisted hip and knee replacements, plus more advanced procedures like ligament reconstructions and cartilage transplants.
Having access to these modern techniques gives patients a real chance at a quicker and less painful recovery.
Now, if you’re hoping to get in quickly, this might not be the fastest option. Dr Brown is in high demand, and securing a new patient appointment can take a while.
Thank you so much for making my life a lot more mobile and enjoyable
“I have just had my second total hip replacement done on the left side and two meniscus tear repairs on the right knee at the same time, so came out with no “good leg”. Can only say that Dr Brown’s thoroughness and knowledge puts you at rest, the minute you chat with him. He is a beautiful soul and has your well being at the top of his priorities and is so approachable that no question sounds silly. He checked on me every day for updates and reassurance. I had to change my rehab plans due to Christmas and the office staff went above and beyond in efficiently sorting out in house rehab for me.
Can not recommend Dr Brown and his colleagues highly enough, as can be seen by going into hospital to have two procedures done at once. 5 Star all the way. Thank you so much for making my life a lot more mobile and enjoyable.”
– Julie Anast, Google Review
We could not be more pleased with the entire experience
“My husband recently underwent an arthroscopy procedure performed by Dr. Lochlin Brown, and we could not be more pleased with the entire experience. From start to finish, the level of care and professionalism was outstanding. Dr. Brown’s expertise was evident throughout the process, and thanks to his skilled approach, my husband experienced a smooth and remarkably fast recovery. The post-operative instructions were clear, thorough, and easy to follow, which greatly contributed to the excellent outcome. We were also very impressed with the receptionist and support staff. They were consistently courteous, efficient, and compassionate—making the entire experience even more reassuring. Follow-up care was exceptional, with timely communication and genuine attention to my husband’s progress. We highly recommend Dr. Lochlin Brown and his team to anyone in need of orthopedic care. Their commitment to excellence is truly commendable.”
– Jody, Google Review
3. Dr Jason Tsung – Southern Gold Coast Orthopaedics
Address: John Flynn Specialist Suites, Suite 601A/42A Inland Dr, QLD 4224
Contact Details: +61 7 5676 9930
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Gold Coast Orthopaedics distinguishes itself through the expertise of Dr Jason Tsung, whose impressive training includes both local and international experience, with fellowships at top centres in the UK and Sydney.
With that, language is barely a barrier here. Dr Tsung offers consultations in both English and Cantonese, which opens the door to a more diverse community and makes the centre feel welcoming from the first contact.
As for the clinic itself, a big reason people come here is because of their robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements. People have noted that they seem to recover faster and with less discomfort than they expected with the equipment.
They’re not all about high-tech fixes either; they’ll also talk you through non-surgical options instead of pushing for an operation right away.
However, if you’ve got a shoulder or hand issue, you’ll likely be referred elsewhere since their strength is in the lower extremities. It’s not a flaw, just something to know before you book in.
I am very thankful for the compassion, kindness & professionalism
“I Had both knee replacements with Jason Tsung recently first being on 13/10/25 then second on 27/11/25. Yes it is very painful first couple of weeks post surgery but with ongoing support from Joint-Fit App available thru this surgery was very pleased with the information supplied and any questions I needed answering were supplied thru this app. Online Physio exercises were excellent and self explanatory. I am very thankful for the compassion, kindness & professionalism shown from the front of office staff thru to nursing, Physio, and Jason Tsung. I am now celebrating walking comfortably without pain & the need for walking aids. Thank you for the excellent teamwork that made the great dream work”
– Jude Cumming, Google Review
I am now living a pain-free, active life at 53
“A surgeon with the upmost care for the best outcome. I first came to see Dr Tsung in 2017. It wasn’t until 2024 that I had a total hip replacement, a testament to his focus on patient care. His robotically assisted, surgical approach made for not only the best possible result, but also the least invasive surgery and a great recovery during which I felt supported all the way. I am now living a pain free, active life at 53 surfing, hiking and forgetting that I ever had a problematic hip. Dr Tsung has a friendly caring bedside manner and a great support team at GCO. I can’t recommend you highly enough Thank you!”
– Martine Gudgeon, Google Review
4. Dr Christopher Vertullo
Address: 8 Carrara St, QLD 4217
Contact Details: +61 75 597 0338
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Dr Vertullo is an Associate Professor and FRACS-qualified specialist whose practice is dedicated almost entirely to knee injuries and conditions.
His expertise spans complex ACL/PCL reconstructions, meniscus repairs, and cartilage restoration, making the clinic a destination for patients seeking advanced joint-preserving procedures.
They also have on-site imaging like MRI and ultrasound. You don’t have to waste weeks attending separate appointments just to figure out what’s going on with your knee.
Something I noticed, and what a few other patients mentioned too, is that they’re pretty meticulous about the paperwork and prep.
The online registration is actually smooth, and means you don’t have to stand at the front desk juggling forms and trying to remember old medical details.
Still, it isn’t all seamless. There have been a few reports of last-minute cancellations because of admin errors. Doesn’t seem to happen all the time, but it’s the kind of thing that’s frustrating when you’ve already made time for a session.
I’m now 7 months post op and have almost my full function back
“After an accident overseas in December 2024, I completely tore my ACL. After some pre op exercises and swelling was reduced, I opted to have surgery in April. Best decision ever! I’m now 7 months post op and have almost my full function back, stairs are no issue & I can run again. Highly recommend Dr Vertullo, he’s definitely an expert in his field. Would hope I never have to see him again, but if I do happen to do something to my knees again, I will be travelling from Northern Queensland to see him.”
– Gemma Hall, Google Review
I would highly recommend this DR and the excellent hospitality
“I had knee injured by incident that I had to see the surgeon immediately after I had done MRI. Goldcoast private hospital recommend for follow up with DR Lochlin. But I would like to know about my MRI result before my consultation with him which is necessary to see him or not. They won’t even explain to me briefly that felt like to take my money from me for consultation. However Dr, Vertullo had assessed my MRI result sooner then get back to me said no need for consultation with him. What a relief!
This is what it has to be to process to see the specialist. I would highly recommend this DR and excellent hospitality with clinic staffs too.”
– Kiki Yama, Google Review
5. Dr David Agolley
Address: 42 Inland Dr, QLD 4224
Contact Details: +61 75 598 0530
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – Closed
Dr Agolley is a hip and knee specialist with additional training, including a fellowship in London and through the Australian Orthopaedic Association.
He often coordinates with physiotherapists, radiologists, and other allied health professionals. This team approach makes the care feel more holistic, and it’s reassuring to know everyone’s on the same page.
The education materials are also surprisingly solid. The pre- and post-surgery guides, plus the videos, really help you understand what’s coming up, rather than leaving you to Google everything later.
The use of advanced technology supports that same level of thoroughness. Their robotic-assisted surgery isn’t common in the area, and people tend to feel reassured because the facility is modern and well-equipped.
And after an operation, the care keeps going. Getting advice, whether by phone or through their online portal, is actually easy, and the team strikes me as genuinely approachable and helpful when it comes to paperwork and logistics.
But cost is definitely something to factor in. The fees are higher than those of some other clinics in the area, which seems tied to both the specialist expertise and all the advanced technology available here.
I am amazed at how well I am recovering—now walking without assistance
“My 91 year old mother had her right hip replaced by Dr. David Agolley three weeks ago. She asked me to write this review on her behalf. “I am amazed at how well I am recovering—now walking without assistance and back to driving. Dr. Agolley’s expertise was clear from the start; he took the time to explain every detail to both myself and my daughter, alleviating any concerns. During my post-op stay at Gold Coast Private Hospital, he visited me frequently, showing genuine care and empathy. His surgery was flawless, and I would confidently recommend him to future patients.””
– Mark Reading, Google Review
I have no hesitation in giving Dr Agolley his five star recommendatiom
“Dr Agolley did an amazing job on my new hip. I know several people that had it done with other specialists and my pain was so much less and recovery time so much faster. Between my surgery and twelve month checkup I had trekked the Dolomites and walked glaciers with full confidence. I have no hesitation in giving Dr Agolley his five star recommendation.”
– Peter Pumpa, Google Review