Our Team
We are a group of veterinary professionals who are dedicated to providing the very best in veterinary care.
Our Team
- All
- Ophthalmology
- Emergency and Critical Care
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Reproduction
- Dermatology
- Anaesthesia
- Dentistry
- Physiotherapy
- Management
Dr Vicki Liddle
Ophthalmology
Dr Vicki Liddle BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (EMCC) FANZCVS (Ophthal), registered specialist veterinary ophthalmologist is based at our Stafford hospital.
Vicki is a registered specialist veterinary ophthalmologist providing referral eye services with a strong emphasis on accessibility, collaboration, and continuity of care. Vicki brings a deep expertise in managing complex medical and surgical ophthalmology cases. Her clinical interests include corneal and anterior segment disease, cataract surgery, ocular emergencies, and retinal diagnostics, supported by advanced in-house imaging and surgical equipment.
She is committed to delivering high-standard ophthalmology care, ensuring she remains approachable and accessible to you, providing clear recommendations and shared decision-making.
Dr Tess O’Keeffe
Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc (hons) MANZCVS (ECC) DACVECC
Emergency & Critical Care Specialist
Tess grew up in inner-city Melbourne. She has always been an avid lover of animals and dreamed of being a vet. Her determination saw her realise her dream when she graduated, with Honours, from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science.
Tess began her veterinary career by undertaking a rotating internship with QVS in 2013, which allowed her to realise her passion for Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care Medicine. In 2016, she successfully gained membership to the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Specialists, for the Emergency and Critical Care chapter and became the group clinical director for Pet Emergency.
Tess completed residency training and successfully passed her specialist board exams in emergency and critical care at QVS in 2025. Her clinical interests include management of sepsis, polytrauma, electrolyte derangements and envenomations.
Outside of work, Tess enjoys spending time with her family (furry and human), a long lunch with her girlfriends, cooking, video gaming and tennis.
Dr Rebekah Donaldson
Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc (hons) MVetMed MANZCVS DACVECC
Board Certified Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care
Rebekah graduated from the University of Queensland in 2012 and completed a rotating internship at Queensland Veterinary Specialists/Pet Emergency in 2013 before working in referral and university hospitals in Sydney and Perth.
She completed a residency in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care at the Royal Veterinary College in London, United Kingdom, with a concurrent Master of Veterinary Medicine, in 2019.
Rebekah became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care in 2019 and is a registered Specialist in small animal emergency and critical care. She returned to Queensland Veterinary Specialists in 2019 and is our cat friendly advocate.
Rebekah has published articles on mechanical ventilation and anaemia and has presented at international conferences including IVECCS (International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Symposium). Rebekah loves all aspects of critical care medicine including mechanical ventilation, transfusion medicine, septic shock and management of the critical post-operative patient. Rebekah is a Brisbane local who loves throwing birthday parties for pets and exploring new places with her Bedlington terrier, Terry.
Dr Monique Stanley
Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc (Hons) MVetStud MVetSci MANZCVS DACVECC
Board Certified Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care
Monique graduated from the University of Queensland in 2006 and returned home to Central Queensland after graduation to work in equine and mixed practice where she developed her passion in small animal emergency medicine. She completed a rotating internship at Queensland Veterinary Specialists/Pet Emergency in 2009. She continued at Pet Emergency as a Senior Emergency Clinician from 2010-2013.
She then completed a residency in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care at the University of Melbourne, with concurrent Masters of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Clinical Studies, in 2016.
Monique became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care in 2018 and is a registered specialist in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care Medicine. Monique worked in private referral practice in Brisbane before returning to Queensland Veterinary Specialists in 2020.
Monique loves all aspects of critical care medicine including mechanical ventilation, disorders of coagulation, and transfusion medicine. Her main passion of toxicology led to her completing a Research Masters on the Viscoelastic Changes in Tiger Snake Envenomated dogs and publishing a case report on Barium Toxicity after Sparkler Ingestion in a dog during her residency training.
Monique is a passionate baker and is known to whip up delights such as Portuguese custard tarts and triple choc chip cookies in her spare time. She also loves exploring Brisbane, while trying new coffee and brunch locations with her husband and their Cavoodle, Bacon.
Dr Hannah Brodie
Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc (Hons) DACVECC GCertSAECC PGDipVCP MVetMed
Emergency and Critical Care Specialist
Dr Sibylle Buob
Internal Medicine
DVM DipACVIM
Board Certified in Internal Medicine
Sibylle studied veterinary medicine in Switzerland at the University of Berne. After graduating, she worked for Novartis, but decided to return to clinical work. She completed an internship at a specialist clinic in Switzerland and worked for one year in private practice.
From 2007 to 2010 she was trained in Internal Medicine at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton, Massachussettes. In 2010 she became American board certified in internal medicine. Sibylle then worked at Anderson Sturgess, a referral hospital in the United Kingdom, before joining the team at QVS.
Sibylle has clinical interests in hepatic diseases, blood disorders as well as nephrology and critical care.
Dr Inar Swift
Internal Medicine
BVSc FANZCVS
Registered Specialist in Internal Medicine
Inar graduated with honours from the University of Queensland in 2002 where she was awarded the University Medal. She worked in small animal practice on the Sunshine Coast before starting at Queensland Veterinary Specialists in July 2003 as a rotating intern in emergency medicine, surgery and critical care.
Inar completed a three year residency in small animal medicine in 2007. Inar achieved Fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in 2011 and is a registered specialist in small animal medicine.
Inar enjoys all aspects of canine and feline medicine but has a particular interest in ultrasonography, immunology, oncology and neurology.
Dr Patricia Newton
Internal Medicine
BVSc FANZCVS
Registered Specialist in Internal Medicine
Patricia graduated from the University of Queensland in 1999 and spent the first part of her career in small animal general practice, working in Alice Springs and then Townsville. She achieved Membership of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in 2004. After two years seeing medicine referral cases at James Cook University Veterinary Hospital, she moved to Brisbane in 2015 to complete a residency in Internal Medicine at Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre. Her research paper on in-house analysis of cerebrospinal fluid was published in 2017. With strong interests in oncology, ultrasonography, neurology and cardiology, she enjoys working with clients, referring clinicians and as part of the QVS multidisciplinary team to get the best outcomes possible for patients.
She has been a membership examiner for the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists and hopes to continue her involvement with the College.
Patricia joined QVS in 2020 and successfully passed her fellowship examination in 2021. Away from work, she enjoys family time with her husband and son, Brian-the-deaf-dog, and their two ninja-cats.
Dr Alexander Saver
Internal Medicine
BVSc (Hons) DipACVIM DipECVIM-CA
Registered Specialist in Internal Medicine
Alex graduated from the University of Queensland in 2016 as valedictorian and university medallist. He then moved to the US to complete an internship at the University of Minnesota, followed by a three-year residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Shortly after completing his residency in 2021, he became board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. In 2025, he also became board-certified by the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Alex enjoys all aspects of internal medicine but has a special interest in gastroenterology and feline medicine.
Alex has returned home to Brisbane with his husband and their two magnificent cats — George and Walter.
Dr Anjie Storrer
Internal Medicine
BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS FANZCVS
Specialist in Internal Medicine
Anjie graduated with Honours from the University of Queensland in 2012. Following graduation, she worked briefly in general practice before taking a rotating internship at a referral hospital in Brisbane. It was during this experience that she developed a passion in internal medicine.
She later completed an internship in internal medicine and has just completed her residency training program at Queensland Veterinary Specialists. Anjie passed her membership exams in 2017. Anjie is well regarded by her peers and clients, and was recently awarded QVS employee of the year in recognition of her endless efforts and positivity.
Dr Remon Wilson
Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS
Internal Medicine Registrar
Remon graduated from James Cook University. After graduation, he worked in a general veterinary practice in Queensland before moving to Sydney to start a rotating internship at Sydney University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Following that, he worked as an Emergency And Critical Care Veterinarian at two referral hospitals in Sydney.
Remon moved back to Queensland to start an Internal Medicine Residency Program and joining our internal medicine team at Queensland Veterinary Specialists. Remon has also achieved a membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in the Small Animal Internal Medicine Chapter.
Dr Olivia Zadnik
Internal Medicine
BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS
Internal Medicine Resident
Olivia graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Queensland with Honours in 2018. She started out her veterinary career working for a community clinic, providing care for animals and their families in low economic areas of Brisbane and the Gold Coast. After Covid, Olivia decided she wanted to push herself further and undertook two years of internship. She was also awarded her memberships in Small Animal Medicine through the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in 2023.
She joined the team at QVS in 2024 as a small animal medicine resident and is thrilled to start her specialisiation journey. She has particular interest in endocrinology, ultrasonography and endoscopy. When not at work, you'll find Olivia reading the most up to date literature, revising her textbooks or working on her papers.
In her spare time Olivia enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their four animals - Zoe the yellow Lab, Gracie the Lab mix, Fat Cat the Burmese and the most recent addition, a 6-month-old Golden Retriever named Phoebe Potato. She also enjoys playing tennis, attending reformer pilates, reading a good book and cooking.
Dr Emily Madden
Internal Medicine
BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS
Internal Medicine Resident
Emily graduated from the University of Queensland in 2019 with First Class Honours. She has since worked at several specialist hospitals in Brisbane in the areas of internal medicine and oncology, before joining the internal medicine team at QVS in 2023. She achieved membership of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in 2023 by examination in Small Animal Medicine. Emily enjoys all aspects of medicine, with special interests in endocrinology, oncology and neurology.
Emily grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, before moving to Brisbane to pursue her dual passion for science and the arts. Before studying veterinary science, she studied a Bachelor of Music at the Queensland Conservatorium, majoring in classical composition. In her spare time, Emily enjoys spending time with her partner, hiking or camping with her dogs Winston and Apollo, snuggling with her cat Aubrey, tending to her vegetable garden, painting or playing piano and guitar.
Dr Sarah Langton
Internal Medicine
BVetBiol, BVSc (CSU) GradDipEd
Internal Medicine Registrar
After completing her BVetBiol and BVSc at Charles Sturt University, Sarah took her skills abroad to the UK before returning to complete a small animal medicine internship and Graduate Diploma at Murdoch University. She then dove into a busy residency at a referral hospital, where she also trained in clinical pathology and diagnostic imaging and presented her research at international conferences.
Sarah loves all things small animal medicine—especially when it comes to working dog breeds and cats. Her special interests include infectious diseases (anything fungal or FIP!) and kidney disease. If it’s complex, chronic, or curious, she’s already deep in the diagnostics!
Dr Gemma Spinoglio
Internal Medicine
BVSc (Hons), MANCVS (Small Animal Medicine)
Internal Medicine Registrar
Dr Kate Robertson
Ophthalmology
Board Certified in Veterinary Ophthalmology
Kate completed her undergraduate degree with a double major in Zoology and Genetics from the Australian National University. Kate graduated with Distinction in Veterinary Medicine & Surgery from Murdoch University in 2012. After working in general and emergency practice for a few years, Kate undertook a rotating internship at SASH (2015). She made the move to the US and completed an Emergency and Critical Care specialty internship at VSH, San Diego (2016) followed by an Ophthalmology Clerkship in Tucson, Arizona (2017). Kate returned to Southern California for her residency in comparative ophthalmology at Eye Care for Animals. She became a Diplomate (specialist) of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists in 2021. After residency, Kate worked in Los Angeles, before moving back to Australia to work in Sydney in 2022. She made the move to the Sunny Coast in August 2025.
Kate enjoys all aspects of ophthalmology, but has special interests in exotic animal ophthalmology, tear film abnormalities, lens disorders and hereditary eye diseases. She has a keen interest in conservation medicine and vision of our native Australian animals.
Outside of work, Kate enjoys hiking, kayaking, photography, gardening and getting to discover the best cafes in the area. She also loves spending time with her most spoilt LA street cat - Truffle
Dr Dave Burgess
Surgery
BVSc (Hons) FANZCVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Dave graduated from the School of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland with First Class Honours in 2000.
He worked in equine and small animal practice in Brisbane before returning to the University of Queensland as an intern in 2002. He continued to work at the University as an Associate Lecturer and Registrar in Small Animal Surgery before moving to Queensland Veterinary Specialists in 2009 to undertake a residency in Small Animal Surgery.
He is a fellow of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered specialist in small animal surgery. Although he enjoys all aspects of surgery, he has a particular interest in minimally invasive surgery – laparoscopy, thoracoscopy and arthroscopy.
Dr Lucas Beierer
Surgery
BVSc GradDipEd MVetSurg DACVS-SA
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Lucas graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Queensland and immediately undertook a rotating internship here at QVS. Surgical internships then followed in Adelaide and Perth, part of which involved a tertiary qualification in adult education.
He undertook a residency in small animal surgery at Murdoch University whilst also completing a masters of veterinary surgery looking at the biomechanics of locking plates.
Lucas was accepted by examination as a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (Surgery chapter) in 2011. He became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons – Small Animal in 2015 and an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Orthopaedics in 2016. He has spent several years working in the Northwest of England prior to making the decision to return home to Brisbane. He has a broad array of surgical training and clinical experiences, enabling him to offer the very best to QVS clients. He is certified to perform Total Hip Replacements and has extensive experience in minimally invasive traumatology.
Dr Tim Pearson
Surgery
BVSc MANZCVS GradDipEd MVetClinStud MVetSurg DipECVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Tim graduated from the University of Queensland in 2001 with Honours and worked in mixed and small animal practice for several years in both Australia and the UK before returning home in 2008 to pursue his dream of becoming a specialist small animal surgeon. He attained membership of the Australian & New Zealand College in Small Animal Surgery by examination in 2009 and then moved to Perth where he completed a 12-month surgical teaching and research program at Murdoch University, followed by a 3-year specialist residency training program in Small Animal Surgery as well as Clinical and Research Masters degrees in fracture biomechanics.
After leaving Murdoch in 2015, he worked for 3 years in a busy private referral practice in Perth and in 2017, he became a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons by examination and is a registered specialist in Small Animal Surgery. Tim embraces all aspects of surgery but in particular, he enjoys complex fracture repair, joint replacement and neurosurgery.
Tim and his wife Lauren returned home to Brisbane in 2019 after 9 years in Perth. In his spare time, Tim is a sporting tragic and spends his spare time refereeing rugby and supporting his beloved Broncos, Reds and the Wallabies. He and his wife have a little boy named Tom and a tabby cat named Poppy.
Dr James Crowley
Surgery
Dr Tiarni Johnston
Internal Medicine
Tiarni Johnston BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (SAIM) Internal Medicine Registrar
Tiarni graduated from The University of Queensland in 2017 and spent the early part of her career at QVS, completing both her rotating and internal medicine internships before joining the team as an emergency veterinarian. She progressed into an Emergency Clinical Manager role before relocating to Perth to pursue residency training in internal medicine.
In 2022, Tiarni passed the ANZCVS examinations in Small Animal Internal Medicine, attaining Membership status. She returns to QVS as an Internal Medicine Registrar, bringing with her a career built across emergency and internal medicine.
Outside of work, Tiarni has a particular love for cats and shares her home with two of her own, Benedict and Henry.
Dr Guy Bird
Surgery
BVSc GradDipEd MVetClinStud MVetSurg DipECVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Guy graduated from James Cook University in 2013, after which he completed two separate specialty trainee programs. In 2016 he moved to Perth and completed a 12-month surgical trainee program at Murdoch University and attained a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education. Guy then completed a 3-year specialist residency training program in Small Animal Surgery at Murdoch University. During that time he also completed a Masters of Veterinary Clinical Studies.
After his residency training he spent a year at a busy private practice specialist clinic in Perth, before moving back home to Brisbane. He completed a Masters in Research studying fracture biomechanics. Guy successfully passed his European diploma examination in small animal surgery in 2022.
Guy is extremely passionate about surgical management and treatment of injury and illness in pets and is interested in all aspects of surgery.
Dr Alecia Evans
Surgery
BSc (Hons) BVSc (Hons) GradDipEd MVetClinStud MVetSurg DipECVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Alecia graduated from The University of Queensland in 2016, before undergoing a rotating internship and a surgical internship here at Queensland Veterinary Specialists.
She then moved to Perth to undertake a specialty traineeship and subsequently a residency in small animal surgery at Murdoch University. During her time in Perth, Alecia was involved in teaching and gained a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education, as well as a Masters in Veterinary Clinical Studies and a Masters in Veterinary Surgery. She also undertook research toward a thesis investigating the biomechanics of 2.0mm locking plates, with this research winning two international awards. Alecia returned to QVS in 2023, joining the surgery team at QVS North Lakes.
In 2025, Alecia successfully completed the ECVS Board certifying exams officially becoming a Diplomat of Small Animal Surgery (specialist) of the European College of Veterinary Surgery.
Outside of work Alecia is a self-confessed nerd, loving all things sci-fi and fantasy.
Dr Ryan Swepson
Surgery
BVSc GradDipEd MVetClinStud MVetSurg DipECVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Ryan graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from James Cook University and spent two years here at QVS, undertaking a rotating internship followed by a surgical internship. He then moved to Perth and spent 12 months completing a specialty traineeship in small animal surgery at Murdoch University, followed by a three year residency program in small animal surgery. While at Murdoch, he also completed a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education, a Masters of Veterinary Clinical Studies, and published a thesis for a research masters studying adrenal gland tumours. After his time in Perth, he moved back to Brisbane and re-joined the team at QVS.
In 2026, Ryan successfully completed the ECVS Board certifying exams officially becoming a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Surgery.
Ryan enjoys all aspects of soft tissue surgery and neurosurgery, but has a particular interest in orthopaedics, specifically complex fracture repair, sporting and working dog injuries, and limb alignment correction. When he isn’t in his scrubs, Ryan enjoys watching rugby and cricket, being outdoors and spending time with his family. Despite his career accolades, he is at his proudest watching his young son grow up alongside his gang of feline and canine siblings.
Dr Erik Brudevold-Iversen
Surgery
BVSc MVM MANZCVS
Surgical Registrar
Dr Daniel Poletto
Surgery
BVB DVM
Surgical Resident
Daniel graduated from the University of Sydney in 2021.
After playing a season of professional club rugby union in Spain for CR Les Abelles and moonlighting in veterinary work at Hospital Veterinario Benipeixcar in the Spanish city of Valencia, he returned to Australia and undertook a rotating internship at a specialist referral centre in Melbourne. Surgical internships then followed in both Melbourne and Sydney before another relocation up the coast to Brisbane for the surgical residency program at QVS.
Outside of clinical work Daniel enjoys running, hiking, and camping in national parks, or watching any form of sport on TV.
Dr Katie Nash
Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc MS MANZCVS(ECC) DACVECC
Board Certified Specialist in Emergency and Critical Care
Katie graduated from The University of Queensland in 2008 before completing an internship and moving to the United States for residency training in emergency and critical care at Auburn University. She has been a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (DACVECC) since 2017, and has worked across private and academic practice in both the US and Australia.
Her clinical interests include transfusion medicine, polytrauma, perioperative critical care, mechanical ventilation, and complex cases where a good outcome is possible despite a difficult initial presentation. Katie is an active researcher with 19 publications and more than 200 citations to her name, with a particular focus on haemostasis, coagulation, and transfusion medicine in small animals.
Dr Sarah Bigby
Anaesthesia
BVSc (Hons) MVS MVSc DACVAA
Board Certified Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia
Sarah graduated from the University of Sydney in 2009 and worked in general practice on the
Central Coast of NSW following graduation. She then undertook a rotating internship at SASH in
Sydney before commencing a residency in Anaesthesia and Analgesia with concurrent Masters of
Veterinary Studies and Masters of Veterinary Science at the University of Melbourne in 2013.
Following her residency, Sarah worked at the University of Cambridge and a private specialist
referral centre in the UK before returning to Australia in 2020. She became a Diplomate of the
American College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia in 2019 and is a registered specialist in
Anaesthesia and Analgesia. Since returning to Australia Sarah has worked at VSS on the Gold Coast
and as a consultant anaesthetist around SEQ.
Sarah enjoys all aspects of anaesthesia in particular total intravenous anaesthesia and loco-regional
analgesia techniques, including developing new techniques for local nerve blocks.
Sarah has 2 rescue cats, Jasper and Juniper who are very shy and love hiding in closets together. She
also has an energetic cocker spaniel called Echo who loves to sniff all the things and together they
are working to build up their skills for Canine Scentwork competitions.
Dr Kieran Smith-Schie
Anaesthesia
BVSc (Hon I) GradDipEd MVetClinStud MANZCVS
Kieran graduated from the University of Queensland in 2018, with First Class Honors. After spending some time in general practice on the Gold Coast, he undertook a rotating internship at VRH, Melbourne, before completing a traineeship in Veterinary Anaesthesia at Murdoch University, Perth, in 2021. Kieran went on to complete his residency program in ‘Veterinary Anaesthesia & Analgesia’ at Murdoch by 2024. Whilst in Perth, Kieran obtained a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary Education, a Master of Veterinary Clinical Studies, and his Memberships in the ANZCVS. He is currently working on a Master of Philosophy. He enjoys teaching students and colleagues, and has an interest in loco-regional anaesthesia.
Kieran recently relocated to Brisbane with his wife, daughter, and collection of cavaliers.
Dr Alex Moore
Dermatology
Registered Specialist in Dermatology
BSc.BVMS, DipACVD
Dr Alex graduated from Murdoch University in Western Australia in 2017 and began her career working in small animal general practice. She completed her dermatology training with the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) and passed her specialist dermatology board exams in 2024. Since then, she has worked in a number of fast-paced dermatology practices across Perth, Sydney and Canberra. She has also worked in dermatology referral clinics in California during her residency. Alex’s research on bee and wasp desensitisation in dogs was recognised by the ACVD, and she was awarded the Resident Research Award at the North American Veterinary Dermatology Forum (NAVDF) in 2023
Alex loves all aspects of dermatology, but her interests include complex allergic dermatitis cases and the individualised management required for each pet, auto-immune and immune-mediated skin diseases and brachycephalic dermatology. She regularly presents seminars on various dermatology topics to general practice veterinarians.
Dr Fabian Trefny
Surgery
BSc BVSc MANZCVS GradDipEd MVetClinStud DipECVS
Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Dr Fabian graduated from the University of Queensland in 2012 and completed rotating and surgical internships at QVS Stafford before heading interstate to pursue advanced specialty training and a residency in small animal surgery in Perth.
In early 2026, Fabian achieved Diplomate status with the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS), reflecting his commitment to surgical excellence. He also holds membership of the Surgery Chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists by examination, a Graduate Diploma in Tertiary and Adult Education, and a Master's in Veterinary Clinical Studies.
His research interests focus on biomechanics, and clinically he enjoys the full breadth of small animal surgery, with particular experience in fracture repair, neurosurgery, thoracic, abdominal, and reconstructive procedures.
Dr Xavier Schneider
Reproduction
BIT BLM (dist) BVSc (hons) MANZCVS (Animal Reproduction) DipACT
Registered Specialist in Theriogenology (Reproduction)
Xavier graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Queensland and began his veterinary career working in mixed practice in Northern Australia focusing on Equine and Bovine Reproduction. On returning to Brisbane, he completed a rotating internship in Equine surgery, medicine and reproduction at The University of Queensland Equine Specialist Hospital. Xavier completed a residency in Theriogenology and is a Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists, a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a Registered Specialist in Reproduction at Queensland Veterinary Specialists. Xavier is also a lecturer with the Faculty of Science at The University of Queensland.
Xavier has a clinical interest in canine, equine and bovine reproduction, medicine and surgery. He is currently a Specialist in Reproduction at Queensland Veterinary Specialists.
Publications: Google Scholar, ORDiD
Dr Jodilee Penn
Reproduction
BAppSc BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Animal Reproduction)
Registrar - Theriogenology (Reproduction)
Dr Jodilee Penn graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Veterinary Technology and Management) before completing her Bachelor of Veterinary Science. She began her career in emergency and critical care, working as a veterinary technician while studying, and later completed a rotating small animal internship at Queensland Veterinary Specialists.
Jodilee has extensive experience across emergency and general practice, with a developing focus and strong passion for small animal reproduction, neonatology, and preventive reproductive health. During her time at UQ Vets, she also contributed to the clinical training of final-year veterinary and veterinary technology students, reflecting her commitment to education and high standards of patient care.
In February 2025, Jodilee completed her residency training in Theriogenology with Queensland Veterinary Specialists, and continues to provide advanced reproductive medicine, breeding management, and neonatal care for dogs and cats.
Katrinka Geelen
Physiotherapy
BHSC (OT) Cert VN BHSC (PT) PG Dip (Vet Pty)
Katrinka is a qualified Physiotherapist, a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APAM), and Queensland representative for APA Animal Physiotherapy Group. Katrinka also carries a Master of Science in Veterinary Physiotherapy from the University of Liverpool.
Katrinka entered the veterinary industry in 2006 as a veterinary nurse, with a keen interest in animal rehabilitation. This passion led to the pursuit of a career in human physiotherapy, with the intention of transferring her physiotherapy skills to animal care. She worked for over 8 years as a senior physiotherapist in a variety of roles.
Katrinka transitioned to animal physiotherapy in 2017, initially working as an Animal Physiotherapist in Sydney at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) before relocating to the Sunshine Coast.
Katrinka has a special interest in postoperative rehabilitation of animals following orthopaedic and spinal surgery, as well as performance dogs and horses, and beloved family pets. She is passionate about animal physiotherapy and its unique complement to veterinary medicine. She thrives in helping patients return to their optimal function and performance.
Dr John H C Hutt
Dermatology
BVSc (Hons) BA (Hons) MA (CW) CertVD MANZCVS DipACVD
Registered Specialist in Dermatology
John graduated from the University of Queensland in 1988. He worked in general practice in Brisbane for 18 months before travelling to the UK in 1990, where he worked in small animal practice for the next 11 years. He was a clinical assistant in dermatology at the Animal Health Trust from 1998 to 2001. In 2001 John set up North Kent Referrals, a multi-disciplinary referral practice in the south of England, and he owned and ran the practice until its sale in 2012.
John is a registered specialist in Veterinary Dermatology. He holds the RCVS Certificate in Veterinary Dermatology, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology, and a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists by examination in small animal medicine. He is a past President of the British Veterinary Dermatology Study Group and sits on the programme committee for the World Congress of Veterinary Dermatology, to be held in Seville in 2028.
John returned to Brisbane in 2013 and is today the most experienced veterinary dermatologist working in Queensland. His clinical interests include allergic skin disease in dogs, immune-mediated skin disorders, and feline and equine dermatology. He is Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland and teaches the undergraduate dermatology course at James Cook University in Townsville.
Dr Jeylan Aslan
Dermatology
BVSc (Hons I) MANZCVS (Small Animal Medicine) DipACVD
Registered Specialist in Dermatology
Jey graduated from the University of Queensland in 2013 with First Class Honours and as top of the class. Following graduation she completed a one year rotating internship at Veterinary Specialist Services. She then spent two years in a small animal general practice in Brisbane, before joining Dermatology for Animals in 2016. Jey is a registered specialist in Veterinary Dermatology.
She is a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists by examination in small animal medicine and is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. She is President of the Dermatology Chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and sits on the administrative committee of the World Association of Veterinary Dermatology. She is also the founder and host of a dermatology journal club attended by dermatologists across Australia and New Zealand to discuss recent publications and advances in the art and science of dermatology!
Jey's special interests in dermatology lie in feline dermatology and dermatologic applications of carbon dioxide laser surgery. She has two very naughty Ragdoll cats, Bijou and Chopin, and outside of work enjoys reading and being outside (with lots of sunscreen on!).
Dr Aaron Forsayeth
Dentistry
BVSc (Hons) | MANZCVS (Veterinary Dentistry)
Director, Advanced Animal Dentistry
Aaron graduated with Honours from the University of Queensland in 1996 and has spent over 25 years building one of the most experienced veterinary dental practices in Australia. He is the Director of Advanced Animal Dentistry, which provides the majority of veterinary dental and oral surgery referral services across South-East Queensland.
Aaron began formal advanced training in small animal dentistry in 2001 under the mentorship of Dr Gary Wilson, attaining Membership of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Veterinary Dentistry in 2004. He co-founded Advanced Animal Dentistry in 2006 and has held numerous leadership roles within the Australian Veterinary Dental Society, including President and long-serving Policy Councillor. He also lectured and tutored in small animal and equine dentistry at the University of Queensland for over 15 years.
His clinical interests span the full scope of dental and oral surgical care in companion animals, with a particular focus on practical, whole-patient outcomes.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys gaming, Lego and guitar, and shares his home with two eccentric Sphynx cats, Polly and Rudi.
Dr Rebecca Tucker
Dentistry
BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Small Animal Dentistry & Oral Surgery) DipAVDC Registered Specialist in Veterinary Dentistry
Bec graduated from the University of Sydney and began her career in small animal general practice in Port Macquarie and Brisbane before moving into full-time dental referral work. She completed a residency through the American Veterinary Dental College, achieving both Membership of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Small Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery and Diplomate status with the American Veterinary Dental College.
Bec is Director of Advanced Animal Dentistry and currently serves as President of the ANZCVS Dentistry Chapter, as well as convenor for the dentistry program at Science Week. She is actively involved in continuing education, regularly lecturing and providing clinical teaching for veterinarians looking to develop their skills in dentistry and oral surgery.
Her clinical interests include the full scope of dentistry and oral surgery, with a particular focus on jaw fracture repair, trauma management, and complex surgical cases requiring careful long-term planning.
Outside of work, Bec enjoys time with her family and her two Whippets, Maple and Hazel.
Bridget Cassidy
Management
Cert IV Veterinary Nursing, BVetTech, MHFAider
Recruitment Manager
Bridget's career in the veterinary industry began as a volunteer kennel hand, where she quickly demonstrated a dedication to animal care. She completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2015, marking the start of a progressive journey into senior and leadership roles across general practice clinics in Queensland and New South Wales.
In 2021, Bridget earned her Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology from Charles Sturt University. Her career highlights include successfully monitoring anesthesia for a 1 meter python and contributing to patient care during clinical trials for the now registered drug Stelfonta.
Driven by a passion for identifying and developing talent, Bridget transitioned into animal health recruitment as an Account Manager. In this role, she partnered with a diverse portfolio of clients across Australia and New Zealand, leveraging her deep industry knowledge and clinical expertise to match top talent with strategic roles.
In 2024, Bridget returned to her roots in the veterinary setting, motivated by her enduring commitment to patient care and talent development. Her career continues to be guided by a passion for fostering excellence and retaining the best talent and team.
In her spare time, you can find Bridget at the beach with her young family and two dogs – Bodhi the American Staffy and Odin the Groodle.