My journey into veterinary medicine started when I was just 12 years old. I worked as a stable hand at a local riding school, spending my afternoons cleaning paddocks and caring for horses. One day, a school horse suffered a severe leg injury in the paddock—a severed artery and all. It was then that I first witnessed Dr Brian Sheahan in action. Calm, skilled, professional, and compassionate, he arrived to help both the horse and those caring for him.

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That moment left a lasting impression on me. I remember thinking, "That is the kind of veterinarian I want to be." It was also the moment I knew I wanted to work for and learn from that awe-inspiring veterinarian.

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Throughout university, I continued working with horses as a riding instructor, stable hand, and eventually as a veterinary nurse at Dr Brian's practice. It was there that I met another remarkable mentor, Dr Judy Law, whose dedication and kindness further shaped my vision of what great veterinary care should look like. I can never truly put into words how grateful I am for everything Dr Judy has done for me as both a colleague and a friend.

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After graduating as a veterinarian, I was privileged to join their team as a vet and spent the next 10 years learning from some of the most talented and inspiring veterinarians I could have hoped to work alongside. 

Dr Brian Sheahan, Dr Judy Law, and Dr Rachel Tan played an enormous role in shaping the veterinarian I am today, and I remain deeply grateful for their mentorship and friendship.

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Like many equine veterinarians, my introduction to dentistry was not exactly love at first sight. In fact, after attending my very first dental procedure with Dr Brian, I remember thinking it looked anything but enjoyable. However, as I learned more about the complexity, precision, and impact of equine dentistry, I became fascinated. What started as curiosity quickly grew into a passion.

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That passion led me to EVDS (Essentials of Equine Dentistry Workshop), where I was inspired by the knowledge and enthusiasm of leaders in the field. It was there that I realised equine veterinary dentistry was what I wanted to dedicate my career to.

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Over the years, I have been fortunate to learn from some of Australia's most respected equine dental veterinarians and specialists. In particular, Dr Oliver Liyou and Professor Gary Wilson continue to mentor me year after year, while Dr Denis Verwilghen and Dr Olivia James have also played important roles in my development along the way. Their mentorship has been invaluable in helping me develop both my skills and my understanding of this area of veterinary medicine.

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Throughout my career, I have pursued extensive continuing education in equine dentistry, ultimately achieving Memberships in Equine Dentistry with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS). This qualification marked a significant milestone in my professional journey and reflects my commitment to providing the highest standard of care for my patients.

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While dentistry is undoubtedly my greatest professional passion, I love everything about equine general practice. What matters most to me is the relationship I build with both horses and their owners. I strive to provide care that is compassionate, gentle, and non-judgemental. My goal is for every horse and every client to feel comfortable, respected, and genuinely cared for throughout their experience—regardless of how they enjoy horses or the discipline they pursue. From high-performance competition horses to much-loved paddock companions, every horse deserves the same level of care and attention.

Today, I continue to pursue ongoing education and professional development, always looking for ways to improve my knowledge and skills. I also have the privilege of returning twice each year to tutor at the EVDS workshops that first inspired me, helping to educate and encourage the next generation of equine dental veterinarians.

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As I began considering the next step in my professional journey, I was fortunate to have the support and encouragement of Sue Crampton, another Samford local, long-standing friend, and one of Australia's leading veterinary business consultants. As a Registered Veterinary Nurse, Sue worked with me in my original years vet nursing in Samford. Sue's guidance, wisdom, and belief in me gave me the confidence to take the leap into creating my own business, and I am incredibly grateful for her friendship and mentorship along the way.

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When people ask what my perfect workday looks like, the answer is simple: spending it with horses, their owners, and a schedule full of dentals and consults. Equine dentistry and practice are just as exciting and fulfilling to me now as when I first discovered my passion for them, and I feel truly fortunate to spend each day doing what I love.