meet our dentist

our team

principal dentist

Dr Allan Riches

Our principal dentist became a qualified practitioner after graduating from Queensland University in 1983, opening his first practice in 1985.

Allan receives great satisfaction from seeing his patients leaving the practice smiling with pristine oral health.

Away from the practice Dr Allan Riches enjoys travelling, skiing, computers and spending time with his family; two beautiful Daughters, Son and Grandchildren.

Dr Manas Malkan

Dr Manas Malkan received his Bachelor of Dental Science degree from Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. Following this he commenced working in Scotland before making the move to sunny Cairns where he joined our team in 2012.

Passionate about his role as a dentist, Manas takes great pride in his patient focused approach to dental care. He takes the time to explain the individual needs and concerns of his patients. Manas provides all aspects of general dental treatment. He has shown keen interest in restoring implants, crowns and bridges. He excels in providing his patients with the best in restorative and cosmetic dental treatment including CEREC same-day crowns, bridges and veneers.

Outside of the surgery Manas likes to keep fit by going to the gym along with enjoying do the numerous hikes available around the Cairns region, and when the weather is too hot for hiking Manas makes the most of our stunning waterways kayaking.

Dr Alex Badaru

Alex joined us in early 2016. Alex studied dentistry in Nigeria where he recieved his degree, and from there relocated to the UK and worked in various hospitals and private clinics.

Alex became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons, England in 2004. After 10 years in the cold and cloudy weather, Alex moved to sunny Cairns where he worked for 4 years, prior to joining our team. Alex has a keen interest in all aspects of dentistry and believes education in good oral health is vital for everyone.

In his spare time, Alex loves spending time with his adorable dogs, and exploring the regions beautiful waterfalls.

Dr Norli Mokhtar

Dr Norli Mokhtar completed her degree in New Zealand where she graduated in 2000.

Later travelling to Far North Queensland which was when Norli became a valued member of our team. It was in 2013, shortly after the birth of her child that Norli decided it was time to change things up, taking a position at another local clinic where she then spent several years working. Needless to say when Norli called us late 2019 interested in returning, we could not contain our excitement and we are sure many of her previous patient who use to see Norli will be surprised and also very pleased that she has now returned.

Dr Mokhtar is a conscientious and caring dentist, with years of experience in all aspects of general dentistry.

Dr Manpreet Kaur Atwal

Dr Atwal completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2014 in India, before moving to Cairns in 2016. Mani has been a part of the Cairns Family and Cosmetic Dental Group team since 2019 as a Dental Assistant prior to her commencing as a Dentist.

Mani has a keen interest in all aspects of Dentistry, and she finds nothing more satisfying than putting smiles on her patients faces. Mani relishes in educating her patients in Oral Health and treatment options, whilst providing the most comfortable experience. Mani prefers to practice preventative denstistry as she believes prevention is better than cure.

In Mani’s spare time she enjoys spending time with family in this beautiful picturesque part of far north queensland. She also enjoys painting and considers herself to be a foodie, enjoying vegetarian cuisine.

Dr NOUREEN DHAMANI

Dr Noureen Dhamani has been working for over 10 years as a Dentist across multiple practices in Australia. After completing her dental degree with distinction and gold medal, Dr Dhamani went on to complete a masters degree in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in 2007 and received several accolades for academic excellence.

Dr Dhamani has extensive clinical experience and enjoys all facets of general dentistry across all age group patients. To ensure she delivers best quality dental care, she regularly updates her knowledge and skills. Her gentle and calm nature supplemented by her profound clinical skills and expertise makes her patients feel at ease and relaxed.

Outside of work, Dr Noureen enjoys spending time with her family and also loves travelling and exploring nature.

DR SARAH BOSNIC

Dr Sarah Bosnic graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from James Cook University, Cairns in 2013. Sarah is a local, having grown up and completed all her schooling and studies in Cairns. Upon graduation, she has worked consistently in private practice. She joined our team in 2024.

Sarah has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry. This includes fillings for aesthetic smile changes, composite and porcelain veneers, and full mouth rehabilitation. She also has an interest in children’s dentistry (pediatric dentistry), gum health (periodontics), general restorative, tooth and surgical extractions, and crown & bridge work. Sarah is very accommodating to all patient’s needs; and has a relaxed, caring approach to each patient.

Outside of work Sarah enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing, Les Mills fitness and being a busy mum with her 3 young children.

DR MICHAEL GILES

Dr Michael Giles is a caring General Dentist who graduated from Griffith University with Distinction. Originally from Brisbane, Michael has made Far North Queensland home, drawn by the region’s natural beauty and active outdoor lifestyle. Michael joined our team in February 2026.

He enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and is known for his patient-focused, gentle approach, taking the time to ensure every patient feels comfortable, informed, and confident in their care. Michael is passionate about building long-term relationships with his patients and delivering high-quality dentistry tailored to individual needs.

Outside the clinic, Michael enjoys barbecuing, swimming, and skiing, and making the most of everything FNQ has to offer.

DR KILLEEN LEITCH

Dr Killeen Leitch is a General Dentist who trained at Griffith University. Originally from Canada, she has relocated to Far North Queensland and is excited to enjoy the warm climate and outdoor lifestyle. Killeen became a part of our team in February 2026.

Dr Killeen enjoys all aspects of general dentistry and takes a caring, patient-focused approach to treatment.

Outside of work, she enjoys golf and cooking and is looking forward to gardening year-round in the tropical climate.

DR WILLIAM SHIELD

Dr William Shield is a dedicated and empathetic dentist who graduated from James Cook University in 2017. A true local, Will has lived in Cairns since 2007 and is proud to serve the community he grew up in. He focuses on providing a patient-first experience, combining a gentle chairside manner with a passion for high-quality, modern dentistry.

 

 

DR CELINE LE-BENOY

Celine’s dentistry journey began long before becoming a dentist. Spending five years working as a dental nurse, gaining valuable insight into patient care and the dental profession before completing her dental training at James Cook University, graduating in 2025. Joining our team in 2026.

Dr Le-Benoy is known for being gentle, thorough and meticulous, with a strong attention to detail. Her main approach is centred around holistic, patient-focused care, considering your overall health, wellbeing and individual circumstances when developing your dental treatment plan.

Celine particularly enjoys restorative and reconstructive dentistry, including crowns, bridges and single-tooth implants, helping patients restore both the function and appearance of their smiles. Celine has a special interest in TMJ/TMD and facial pain, and finds it incredibly rewarding to help patients who have been living with discomfort find relief and a better quality of life.

Outside of dentistry, you will find Celine spending time in the garden, volunteering with her local Scout group and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings.