Dr Bridget Cooper
Consultant Endocrinologist
Dr Bridget Cooper is a passionate Endocrinologist with a strong commitment to improving health outcomes in regional and rural communities. She grew up in Wagga Wagga, spent several years at the School of Rural Health in Dubbo (University of Sydney), and completed part of her junior doctor and physician training at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital. Through these experiences, she witnessed the health challenges faced by patients in regional areas. This fuelled her passion to one day return to the Riverina and provide high-quality diabetes and endocrinology care in her hometown.
Dr Cooper completed her specialist training at The Canberra Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney and John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. She has since returned home to Wagga Wagga, where she now holds appointments at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, Calvary Riverina Hospital, and The Canberra Hospital. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr Cooper is actively involved in teaching, clinical research, and mentoring junior medical staff. She brings together her clinical expertise with a strong interest in Indigenous health, multidisciplinary care, and a deeply patient-centred approach.
Leigh Spokes
Nurse Practitioner and Credentialled Diabetes Educator
Leigh Spokes is an RN and Endorsed Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to holistic patient care and supporting people to understand chronic disease and achieve positive long-term health goals. She has been a credentialled diabetes educator for over 25 years and has worked at both Wagga Wagga Base & Calvary Riverina hospitals, in Indigenous health primary care clinics, and in university lecturing.
Originally trained in hospital as an RN and midwife, Leigh has since completed four university degrees, including two master's degrees. She brings extensive clinical experience across hospital, community, and primary care settings, with a special interest in supporting people through the options available for long-term weight management.
Outside of work, Leigh stays active, walking daily with her husband Graham, and keeps extra busy with her grandchildren in Wagga Wagga and Canberra.
