Meet the Team

Associate Professor
Gabby Vasica

MSc (Hons I) MBBS (Hons) FRACS

Laparoscopic, General and Breast Surgeon

Associate Professor Gabby Vasica is a highly experienced General Surgeon with a deep commitment to the Northern Beaches community. Specialising in laparoscopic, general, and breast surgery, she offers a comprehensive range of services, from minor procedures like skin lesion removal and vasectomies to complex abdominal hernia surgeries and bowel resections. She is also an expert in minimally invasive techniques, regularly performing laparoscopic hernia repairs and gallbladder removals.

Beyond the operating theatre, A/Prof Vasica is a recognised authority in medical education. As the current Chair of the Australian Board in General Surgery and a former Chair of the NSW/ACT Surgical Training Committee & the SIMG general surgery representative, she plays a pivotal role in defining how surgeons are trained and assessed in Australia. She continues this passion for teaching as a Clinical Supervisor at Northern Beaches Hospital and a lecturer at the SAN Clinical School of Medicine.

Gabby is dedicated to providing accessible care to her local community. She actively participates in emergency rosters and offers flexible options for private and public patients. She consults in Mona Vale and Wahroonga, with surgical privileges at Northern Beaches Hospital, the Sydney Adventist Hospital (SAN), Pittwater Day Surgery, and Wyvern Private Hospital.

Neil Mendonsa

BN, MNP, MNursPrac, GDipClinPrac (Paramedic), GCHSM, PFACNP

Nurse Practitioner

Neil is our dedicated Nurse Practitioner committed to providing holistic care under the mentorship of A/Prof Gabby Vasica. Neil is passionate about healthcare and delivering excellent patient centered care and surgical outcomes.

Neil completed his undergraduate training with distinction at the University of Technology, Sydney and a further Master of Advanced Nursing Practice with the University of Sydney. Neil’s deep interest in clinical care led him to further study a Master of Nurse Practitioner, graduating with distinction from the University of Newcastle specialising in acute perioperative care. Neil has over 12 years of experience and has held numerous roles in clinical nursing, education and healthcare management. He is a former professional member of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NSW) and a clinical lecturer at Avondale University. Neil actively contributes to the profession's advancement through clinical research and education and is a prospective PhD candidate with research interests in complex abdominal surgery. He is also a professional fellow of the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners.

Under the mentorship of A/Prof Gabby Vasica, Neil has developed his skills and expanded his knowledge, becoming an invaluable member of the Sydney General Surgeons team. Together our collaborative team is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all patients. Neil's care giving philosophy revolves around empathy and individualised attention, acknowledging the distinct needs of each person he serves. His continuous pursuit of knowledge ensures he remains abreast of cutting-edge advancements in healthcare, enabling him to deliver excellent clinical care.

Beyond his professional commitments, Neil dedicates his time to serving the community, volunteering with St John Ambulance NSW at major events and festivals, delivering frontline care with excellence. His service extends to aiding in various natural disasters, including the recent COVID pandemic, floods, and fires, earning him recognition with prestigious awards like the NSW Premier's Bushfire Citation and National Emergency Medal.