Having graduated from the University of Queensland in 1973, Dr. Michael Podagiel started work as a general practitioner in Wynnum in 1977. This was in a three-doctor partnership, with the practice in the converted front rooms of the senior partner's family's home, "Atherfield", at 52 Bay Terrace.
Seeking greener pastures and broader horizons, Dr. Podagiel left Atherfield in 1993 to establish his own practice. This was "Wynnum Manly Family Practice", in what would colloquially become known as the "Franklins' Building" - now "Wynnum Shopping Centre", at 89 Bay Terrace.
Thanks to the hard work of Dr. Podagiel, his practice manager (Mrs Mary-Lou Podagiel), and his staff, the practice flourished, eventually growing to four full-time doctors.
With four doctors, and patient numbers still increasing, the practice needed premises that were not only larger, but better suited to the unique requirements of primary health care. As a result, the practice relocated to its current premises at 116 Edith Street, in 2002. These larger, more comfortable, better equipped premises allowed another two doctors and a practice nurse to join the practice in the following years.
Despite occasional set-backs with staff changes and the growing influence of corporate ownership of general practices, the practice remains strong. It is still family owned and operated, now by Dr. Christopher Podagiel (Michael's son) as principal, and Mrs Mary-Lou Podagiel continuing as practice manager.
"Atherfield", 52 Bay Terrace, where Dr. Michael Podagiel practised from 1977-1993
89 Bay Terrace, previously known as the "Franklins' Building", has undergone significant redevelopment since it was home to the Wynnum Manly Family Practice, from 1993-2002
The Wynnum Manly Family Practice at 116 Edith Street, where it has been since 2002.
