Doctors
Copacabana Medical has three doctors working at the practice: Dr Risto Cvetkovic and Dr Diana Peneva-Arabadjiyska and Dr Hanna.
Dr Risto Cvetkovic
FRACGP, MD (USA), Spec. Ophthalmologist (Serbia)
Practice Principal
After graduating from medicine at the University of Belgrade in 1991, Risto moved to Frankfurt, Germany, working at the 97th US Army General Hospital. As part of his specialty training in ophthalmology, Risto relocated to the U.S.A. and completed a year of general surgery at the Medical College of Virginia, a one-year International Fellowship in Ophthalmology at the Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital, NYC, and a Fellowship in Oculoplastic Surgery also in NYC. After completing his postgraduate training as a specialist ophthalmologist in Serbia, Risto sought greener pastures and came to Australia via New Zealand. He re-trained as a GP and became a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of GPs in 2022.
Dr Risto has a broad interest in general practice, with a special focus on: skin cancer screening, skin surgery, chronic disease management, pain management, addiction medicine, medicinal cannabis, transgender health, mental health, aged care, and palliative care.
In his spare time, Dr. Risto enjoys spending quality time with his wife, son, and daughter and has a passion for playing tennis.
Languages spoken
English, Serbian, Croatian, Macedonian, Hungarian
Schedule
Dr Diana Peneva-Arabadjiyska
MBBS, FRACGP
General Practitioner
Diana graduated medicine at the Higher Medical Institute of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, in 1989. She relocated to South Africa before moving to New Zealand then Australia in 2008. Diana became a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of GPs in 2014. Dr Diana worked in rural Victoria before joining the team at Copacabana Medical Centre in 2021. She thoroughly enjoys working at Copacabana and loves the beach lifestyle.
Diana is passionate about eating healthy and fitness workouts, and can also swing a tennis racquet.
Schedule
Dr Diana works all day Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Monday, Thursday and Friday mornings.
Dr Hengame Babaei Lakeh
General Practitioner
Dr Hanna is an internationally trained doctor whose medical journey began in Iran and continued through advanced study and clinical experience in the UAE and Germany. Her diverse background has shaped her into a compassionate and culturally aware practitioner with a holistic approach to health care.
She has a strong interest in chronic disease management, women’s health, pregnancy care, and comprehensive skin cancer checks. She is committed to empowering patients through clear communication, lifestyle-focused care, and preventative health. Known for her calm, approachable manner and patient-centred approach, Dr Hanna ensures every patient feels heard, supported and involved in their healthcare decisions.
Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, reading and participating in humanitarian activities, experiences that deepen her empathy and dedication to her community.
Schedule
Dr Hanna works Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and is currently accepting new patients!
Priscila Martins
REGISTERED NURSE
Priscila graduated from the University of Newcastle in 2019, where she completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree.
She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) she has attained post graduate qualifications and is a certified immunizer through the Australian College of Nursing.
Priscila moved to Australia from Brazil in 2004.. Prior to nursing, she worked in hairdressing where she developed a love of working with people.
Priscila believes that patient-centred care is very important to support people to achieve their health goals. She enjoys being part of a team and working with other health professionals to provide a holistic approach to health care.
Priscila loves Latin dancing, reading and spending time on Copacabana beach with her partner, family and friends.
Priscila works Monday to Thursday
Phillipa Fong
Practice Manager
Phillipa Fong joined our practice in 2025, bringing with her over 13 years of experience in the medical practice industry. With a strong background in business management, Phillipa has cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities and demands of healthcare operations. Her dedication to creating efficient, patient-focused environments has made her an integral part of our leadership team.
Having devoted much of her career to improving healthcare systems, Phillipa combines practical know-how with strategic insight, ensuring the smooth and effective running of our daily operations.
Outside of work, Phillipa leads a dynamic and purpose-driven life. She is a dedicated martial artist, actively practising Karate, and enjoys horse riding and animal rescue initiatives. Always eager to grow and contribute meaningfully, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Newcastle, aiming to expand her abilities.