Our Team
At the heart of this dynamic dental team is a group of exceptional professionals, each bringing a unique set of skills to the practices. The team's diverse expertise ensures comprehensive care for every patient. Together their collaboration creates a patient-centered approach built on trust, teamwork, information and quirkiness. We tailor our approaches based on what our patient needs to feel comfortable. There is no “one size fits all” method in our practices.
For pediatric patients it may mean a favourite tv show, no music in the rooms, small steps in building trust and desensitisation or role-playing. Special needs patients are also accommodated in ways that make them feel comfortable and willing to participate. We also offer tech-savvy, cutting-edge technology, and treatment options. From the most complex multi-disciplinary rehabilitation cases to minor orthodontic care: we have a large armamentarium of services we can offer.
Owner and General Dentist
Dr Aninke Lippert
When not at work, Dr Annie enjoys spending time with their 3 children which keep her busy and active. The Clarence Valley is their forever home and they enjoy the variety of beaches, outdoor activities, sun and wonderful weather all year round!
​
She loves being part of the Valley and it's people and feels at home amongst the longterm locals. She has a passion for supporting local businesses and artists as you will see reflected in the practices.
Owner and General Dentist
Dr Willem Espag
People sum Dr Willem up as the introverted nutty professor who always has fun, mischief and innovation on his mind. He likes nothing more than seeing his family have fun together.
​
His latest craze is diving and Snorkeling with his family or spending time on the Clarence River on a Jetski. He still loves fishing and will never change from being a catch and release man. Don't expect him to loose his accent or walking limp in the near future.
General Dentist
Dr Joanna Reece
Joanna Reece grew up in Vancouver, Canada and later moved to the UK where she studied dentistry at Guy’s Hospital, London University, graduating with distinction in 1997. Over her career, Joanna as gained a variety of experience in all aspects of dentistry - fillings, root canal treatments, crowns, bridges, and extractions. Joanna is interested in short-term orthodontics and is qualified to place braces with Quick Straight Teeth, Clear Correct aligners and Inman appliances. Joanna prides herself in providing a relaxing atmosphere to help people who suffer from dental anxiety and she can also provide treatment under relative analgesia (‘happy gas’).
Joanna and her husband, Gordon, emigrated to Australia in 2005 and lived in the Alpineshire in Victoria and the city of Bendigo. They moved to the Clarence Valley in 2021 and are enjoying the warmer weather and beautiful coast. Joanna loves the outdoors and enjoys hiking, tennis, cycling, jogging, swimming and kayaking. On the quieter side she likes to read with her 2 cats Zelda and Humphrey curled up on her!
General Dentist
Dr. Tommie Strydom
Dr Tommie Strydom grew up on a farm in South Africa and completed his schooling in Cape Town. He earned his dental degree from the University of Stellenbosch in 1998 and worked in South African private practice from 1998 to 2007.
In 2007, Dr Strydom immigrated to Australia, taking on the role of District Dentist with the South Australian Dental Service in Mount Gambier. After passing the Australian Dental Council exam in Sydney in 2008, he relocated to Coffs Harbour in 2009.
As a dedicated father, Dr Strydom is deeply committed to promoting children’s oral health. He takes pride in educating both children and adults about dental care, plaque control, oral hygiene, and nutrition.
Outside of his dental practice, he enjoys volunteering at the Royal Fire Service and as a surf life-saver. His other hobbies are woodworking, photography, fishing, and spending quality time with his beloved golden retrievers.
General Dentist
Dr William Ching
Dr Will is passionate about providing high-quality care to every patient, helping them improve their oral health and confidence. He enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and works closely with each patient to create and continue personalised treatment plans.
​
Known for his warm and easy-going nature, Dr Will brings a touch of humour to his appointments, helping patients feel at ease—especially those who may be a little nervous.
​
Dr Will’s impressive qualifications include:
Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Radiation Science), Diagnostic Radiology (Honours) – 2013
Doctor of Dental Medicine – University of Sydney, 2018
Progressive Orthodontic Seminars Training – Completed in January 2024
​
He’s passionate about advancing his restorative techniques and leveraging the latest dental technologies here at Family Dental Grafton.
​
Outside the practice, Dr Will enjoys karate training, gaming, and walking his dogs.
Oral Health Therapist
Isabelle McLeod
Isabelle grew up in the Clarence Valley on a cane farm. Interesting fact: she was one of Dr Annie's patients before she became interested in dentistry.
​
She is passionate about oral health therapy as it combines being a dental therapist as well as having dental hygiene scope. She has a strong focus on prevention of periodontal disease as well as improving long-term, good oral hygiene habits.
​
As a mum with young kids you can find her farming with cattle, blasting country music, and spending time with her family.