The recent AVA Conference in Brisbane, themed Connection, Collaboration, and Knowledge, was an energising and inspiring event for our profession. It was invigorating to see so many veterinary professionals gathered together, all clearly passionate about the future of our industry and committed to advancing animal health and welfare across Australia.
The conference provided an excellent opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share ideas, and hear from leaders across a broad range of sectors. One of the strongest takeaways for me was the importance of collaboration — not only within our own division, but across jurisdictions and disciplines. The enthusiasm and innovation on display has stoked my drive to shake up the WA Division, challenge ourselves to think outside the square, and explore new ways of engaging and supporting our members.
As part of this focus, I am particularly keen to strengthen relationships beyond our own state boundaries. There is enormous value in collaborating more closely with our neighbouring divisions in the Northern Territory and South Australia, and potentially even across the Strait with Tasmania. While each region faces unique challenges, many of our goals are shared, and there is much we can learn from one another through stronger partnerships and shared initiatives.
I am also optimistic about the AVA’s new membership model and the opportunities it presents for members at every stage of their careers. Change can be challenging, but it also creates space for growth and innovation, and I believe these developments will help ensure the AVA remains relevant, accessible, and valuable into the future.
Finally, I am excited to hear the improved AVA website will soon come to fruition. A more modern, user-friendly platform will be an important step forward in improving communication, accessibility, and member engagement across the association.
The energy and momentum coming out of the conference reinforced my belief that the future of our profession is bright – as long as we support, nurture and challenge it, and I look forward to working with our WA members and colleagues around the country to help shape that future together.
Dr Katy Davis
BVSc BSc [Aquaculture]
WA AVA Division President