Elesa Crowley

Elesa Crowley is a Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health (UoNDRH), with a concurrent role as Senior Clinical Dietitian at Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital. With over 20 years of professional experience, she is an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian specializing in rural health contexts.

Education:

• Master of Medical Science (Nutrition and Dietetics), University of Newcastle (2009)
• Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition & Dietetics), University of Newcastle

Crowley's research focuses on the role of cow's milk protein in pediatric constipation, with her master's thesis investigating this relationship in children with Chronic Functional Constipation. Her work spans rural health, pediatric nutrition, allergy and intolerance, eating disorders, and interprofessional learning. She has published extensively on rural dietetic workforce development and innovative approaches to clinical education.

Her 15 most recent publications reveal a consistent focus on rural health challenges, interprofessional practice in nutrition, and food accessibility issues. The research shows a progression from clinical investigations of pediatric conditions toward broader systemic issues in rural healthcare delivery and workforce development. Her work increasingly incorporates innovative educational approaches and collaborative models across healthcare professions.

Professional Leadership:

• Chair of the Hunter New England (HNE) International Dietetic Nutrition Care Process Terminology (NCPT) Committee
• HNE representative on the NSW NCPT committee

Crowley has been instrumental in developing the innovative rural dietetic student placement model at UoNDRH, which has grown from 2 placements in 2002 to 33 in 2013. She actively supervises research students and has contributed significantly to interprofessional education frameworks. Her current teaching focuses on clinical dietetics and interprofessional learning, reflecting her commitment to preparing dietitians for collaborative practice in rural settings.