Meet The Team

After graduating in 2016 from the University of Dundee in Scotland, Dr Laura Donohoe moved back home to Glasgow to work as an associate dentist. She worked in one practice for the next three years where she was able to build up her skillset before she decided to make the move to Australia. She moved to Melbourne in September 2019 and worked as an associate dentist in North Melbourne before joining the skilled and friendly team at Maven Dental Plateau, Alstonville.

Laura enjoys all aspects of dentistry, from the daily patient interactions to the satisfaction gained from getting her patients out of pain or restoring their confidence in their smile. Clinically, her key interests lie in oral surgery, endodontics, and short-term orthodontics.

A long time keen runner, in her spare time you'll often find Laura out on a long run or competing in a race. She loves most sports and being active and enjoys trying out new recipes in the kitchen. Most of all, she loves to spend time with friends and family over good food and a wine.

Dr Marc Smethurst graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from Newcastle University, UK, in 2015. He is also a member of the Faculty of Dental Surgeons of the Royal College of Edinburgh. He predominantly worked in NHS practices across the UK and is now one of our Associate Dentists.

Marc enjoys all aspects of General Practice and regularly participates in further studies and training, such as root canal treatment troubleshooting. His long-term goal is to split time between clinical work and teaching, and hopes to undertake a qualification in Clinical Education in the near future. 

Outside of work, Marc can often be found on stage somewhere! He has gigged regularly, doing both Stand Up comedy as well as hosting/DJing events. This has allowed him to perform shows all over the UK, as well as in Ibiza, Dubai and here in Australia. 

MJ Pelarion has recently joined our clinic at Maven Dental Plateau, Alstonville and expands our Oral Health and Hygiene team. MJ completed her Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Oral Health Therapy in New Zealand prior to relocating to our beautiful area. While studying, MJ gained valuable hands-on experience as a dental receptionist and assistant, and during her university placements in Tauranga, New Zealand, she developed a deep commitment to oral health, especially in high-risk communities.

MJ takes pride in her identity as a Filipina-Kiwi. Her journey began in the small town of Linamon, Lanao Del Norte, Philippines where her family migrated to New Zealand in pursuit of a brighter future. She is fluent in both Cebuano and English, and she has limited proficiency in the Tagalog dialect.

MJ's clinical interests lie in periodontology, where she focuses on a holistic approach to patient management and treatments. She is passionate about empowering her patients with knowledge and tools to improve and maintain their oral health.

When not at the clinic, MJ enjoys going on mountain hikes, appreciating the tranquillity of the scenic views. Some weekends may find her exploring the different yet equally appealing landscapes at her local shopping centres. In the morning, don’t be surprised to catch MJ enjoying a good cup of coffee at her local café.