The Kendall Oration recognises outstanding veterinary graduates and provides a prestigious platform to share their knowledge, experience and vision with the profession.
The Kendall Oration recognises outstanding veterinary graduates and provides a prestigious platform to share their knowledge, experience and vision with the profession.
Awarded annually, the recipient is invited to deliver a 10-minute oration at the opening plenary of the AVA Annual Conference when held in Canberra or Melbourne. Open to both AVA members and non-members, the oration celebrates excellence in veterinary science and leadership.
Established in Canberra in 1930 by the five sons of Dr William Tyson Kendall, the award honours a pioneer of the Australian veterinary profession. Dr Kendall migrated to Australia in 1880, helped found the Australasian Veterinary Medical Association, and is widely regarded as the ‘father of veterinary medicine’ in Australia.
The Kendall Oration continues his legacy by recognising veterinarians who have made a significant contribution to the profession and inspiring future generations through the sharing of knowledge and ideas.
- Established
Nomination guidelines
The Kendall Oration is open to both AVA members and non-members. Eligible nominees are noted veterinary graduates who have demonstrated outstanding achievement, leadership, or contribution to the veterinary profession and are considered capable of delivering the annual Kendall Oration at the AVA Annual Conference.
Nominations may be submitted to the National Awards Committee by AVA Divisions and Special Interest Group Committees. The National Awards Committee considers all nominations before recommending a recipient for ratification by the AVA Board.
Nominations are reviewed by the National Awards Committee, which is responsible for ensuring the recipient is of an exceptional standard and worthy of delivering the Kendall Oration. The Committee’s recommendation is then submitted to the AVA Board for ratification. To maintain the integrity of the process, nominee details are treated confidentially throughout the selection process.
The Kendall Oration is awarded to a noted veterinary graduate who has made a significant contribution to the veterinary profession. Traditionally, recipients have worked in Melbourne or Canberra in recognition of Dr William Tyson Kendall’s role in establishing Australia’s first veterinary school in Melbourne and the historical connection between the oration and Canberra. However, veterinary graduates from all Australian states and territories may be considered. The National Awards Committee seeks nominees of exceptional professional standing who can deliver an engaging and thought-provoking oration to the veterinary community.
Submit a nomination
Nominations for the Kendall Oration award are now closed. Nominations will open later this year. In the meantime, if you have any questions please contact awards@ava.com.au