The veterinary community gathered in Sydney last Friday to celebrate excellence in the field at the inaugural GapOnly Veterinary Awards.
The event, held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, coincided with International Women’s Day and included a standalone award recognising female veterinarians.
Dr Maria Neale, General Manager of GapOnly®, said the awards provided a platform to acknowledge those making a positive impact in veterinary care.
“It was an honour to bring together some of the brightest minds in the industry, and to network with, and celebrate the change-makers in our industry who are dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their people.
“With females representing nearly three-quarters of the veterinary workforce, we wanted to acknowledge the dedication and contribution of female veterinarians with a standalone category.”
The awards highlighted contributions from individuals and practices across Australia, with winners announced across four categories, with the judging criteria considered factors such as patient outcomes, client feedback, teamwork, and support for flexible work practices.
Dr Elizabeth Thrift from The Pet Specialists in Terrey Hills, NSW, was named Woman Vet of the Year, while Wagga Wagga Veterinary Hospital took home Vet Practice of the Year. Ashleigh McIntosh from Greencross Vets in Lawnton, QLD, was recognised as Team Member of the Year, and RSPCA NSW Hunter Veterinary Hospital won the SafetyNet PetAssist™ Community Service Award.
More than 100 industry professionals attended the event, hosted by satirist Mark Humphries. The night also featured a keynote speech from Sam Bloom, the subject of the bestselling book Penguin Bloom.
The judging criteria considered factors such as patient outcomes, client feedback, teamwork, and support for flexible work practices.
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