Funny Bones cracks up class with blind ambition
It’s National Spinal Health Week next week (26 May – 1 June), and CQUniversity couldn’t be prouder to celebrate one of its newest success stories – Masters of Clinical Chiropractic graduate Neil ‘Vincent’ Bones.
Yes, Bones is his real surname. And no, you couldn’t script it better.
After completing his studies at CQU’s Mackay campus, Vincent is ready to make his mark in the chiropractic field, offering a fresh pair of hands to a profession dedicated to keeping Australia’s spines aligned and strong.
Freshly qualified and already putting his knowledge to good use at Grays Chiropractic and Wellness in Mackay, Vincent is quickly becoming a spine-alignment sensation in his local community.
“I get the ‘you were born for this’ comment a lot. It’s a great icebreaker with patients – and a good way to keep things light in the clinic,” Vincent laughed.
But Vincent’s path to chiropractic wasn’t always obvious, in fact it seemed to be quite whimsical.
While sport and staying active were always part of his life, he never had seen a chiropractor personally before starting the course.
"Everyone, including all my classmates, thought I was a little crazy for diving into something I had zero background in. But from day one, I started learning, experiencing it firsthand, and seeing the real benefits of chiropractic care,” Vincent explained.
“So, no – it wasn’t love at first sight. But now? I’m all in, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything."
It wasn’t a predetermined calling, but a health challenge during his final year of high school, that shifted Vincent's career perspective.
“I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and that really made me take my health seriously,” he said.
“That experience gave me a deeper appreciation for wellbeing and probably played a part in me wanting to help others feel their best too.”
During his time at CQUniversity, Vincent immersed himself in anatomy, biomechanics and hands-on clinical training - and it has all paid off as he has transitioned from student to practitioner - a move he describes as both exciting and fulfilling.
“I’m passionate about helping people move better, feel better and live better,” Vincent said.
“Whether it’s a small difference or a big one – if I can improve someone’s quality of life, that’s what drives me.”
Now focused on building his experience, Vincent is aiming to become a trusted practitioner in his community – someone people can rely on for honest, quality care.
In the long term, he’s open to working with athletes, expanding his practice, or even opening a clinic of his own.
As National Spinal Health Week shines a light on the importance of maintaining a healthy spine, Vincent’s story serves as a timely reminder of the growing need for passionate, knowledgeable chiropractors in regional communities.
If you're thinking of a career that makes people feel better – inside and out, CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) and the subsequent Masters of Clinical Chiropractic offers the skills, support, and clinical training to launch your career in one of Australia’s most in-demand health professions.
With a focus on evidence-based care, hands-on learning and real-world experience, it’s the perfect way to align your future.