Geelong physio Travis McCombe remembered by family and friends

A renowned Geelong physiotherapist has been remembered as an “incredible spirit”.

Travis McCombe of Belmont Physiotherapy Centre voted as Geelong's best physio. He was remembered by friends and family on Monday. Picture: Alison Wynd

A huge crowd gathered to farewell renowned Geelong physiotherapist Travis McCombe, whose love of life was described as “infectious”, at GMHBA Stadium on Monday.

Mr McCombe died suddenly from a medical episode on his 53rd birthday last month while on a remote island of Papua New Guinea, the country he grew up and treasured.

He was remembered by friends and family who honoured Mr McCombe’s “incredible spirit and amazing desire to make peoples lives better”, at his funeral.

Brother Shaun McCombe said Travis would have been so proud to see everyone supporting one another at his funeral.

Shaun ended his speech by reciting some lyrics from Hunters and Collectors song Throw Your Arms Around Me.

Mr McCombe’s sister Candice said he made everyone around him feel valued.

“Life is a gift to be shared…we will love you always and strive to carry your spirit each day,” she said.

“You were a gift to this world.”

Brendan Foran worked closely with Mr McCombe and said he had an ability to inspire and rally people to action.

“He worked on people’s bodies but it was their hearts and minds that he changed,” Mr Foran said.

Michael Donovan, a childhood friend, said Mr McCombe was a “lifetime mate” who made him a better man.

Travis McCombe of Belmont Physiotherapy Centre voted as Geelong's best physio. He was remembered by friends and family on Monday. Picture: Alison Wynd

Brady Stellard knew Mr McCombe since the late 90s and said he was “always up for a laugh”.

“Travis was absolutely hilarious,” Mr Stellard said.

“He was great fun to be around.

“I’m a better person for knowing Trav, he taught me how to laugh, be kind and be compassionate.”

Rebecca Cody, principal of Geelong Grammar School, said Mr McCombe played a role in the school’s sporting success.

“He treated everyone the same,” Ms Cody said.

“His skills and integrity as a physiotherapist were first class.

“We admired his work ethic and expertise, his reliability and dedication.”

Mr McCombe was a renowned figure in the Geelong community, voted as Geelong’s number one physio by readers of this publication.

He has worked with AFL teams, Olympians, and international soccer players.

In June, Mr McCombe said what he enjoyed the most from his job was the relationships built with families and individuals.

“It’s a big community of physios in Geelong and there are some great ones so if people have injuries they shouldn’t hesitate to see one as they are full of knowledge,” Mr McCombe said prior to his passing.

Originally published as Geelong physio Travis McCombe remembered by family and friends