Don Kerr spent his career investing in the next generation of veterinarians. The award that bears his name continues that work.
The Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award commemorates the late Don Kerr, a passionate cattle practitioner, dedicated educator and AVA President at the time of his passing in 1992. Awarded annually to a final year veterinary student nominated by their university, it recognises exceptional academic achievement and outstanding commitment to cattle medicine.
It is a highly regarded award that honours his legacy by celebrating those who share his passion for cattle medicine and the communities that depend on it.
- Established
2026 Winner – Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award
Dr Paige Ayton
Past prize winners
2025 Winner- Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award
Dr Arran Hersburgh
Dr Arran Hersburgh is a rising star in Australia’s cattle industry and an exemplary recent graduate veterinarian whose passion and dedication are already making a significant impact. Although city-born, Arran has relentlessly pursued his love for rural life and cattle medicine, travelling across the country to gain hands-on experience in a diverse range of cattle enterprises and veterinary practices.
Dr Hersburgh’s academic achievements are a testament to his commitment to excellence. He graduated from James Cook University with the highest cumulative marks in beef cattle medicine. His practical expertise is matched by strong leadership qualities and a deep-seated commitment to advancing the cattle industry.
A pivotal moment in Arran’s journey was being awarded the prestigious Agrifutures Horizon Scholarship. This opportunity connected him with like-minded peers who share his passion for food production and agriculture, further reinforcing his decision to dedicate his career to the cattle industries. Through this experience, Arran has broadened his perspective and deepened his resolve to contribute meaningfully to the sector.
Future contributions to veterinary science and the cattle industry are poised to be both meaningful and influential, marking him as a young professional to watch in the years ahead.
| Recipient | Year |
|---|---|
| Birch, A | 2022 |
| Dodds, Mitchel | 2020 |
| Stong, Madeline | 2019 |
| Phillips, S | 2018 |
| Warton, Nell | 2017 |
| Collins, L | 2016 |
| Morgan, Samuel | 2015 |
| Strohfeldt, L | 2014 |
| Solari, C | 2013 |
| Crook-King, J | 2012 |
| Rae, S | 2011 |
| Orr, K | 2010 |
| De Ridder, T | 2008 |
| Kelly, Jillian | 2006 |
| Hunter, Trepheena E | 2005 |
| Kelly, Francesca | 2004 |
| Parker, K | 2003 |
| Chapman, Helen L | 2002 |
| Daley, Stephen | 2000 |
| Schmidt, Carlie | 2000 |
| Ahern, David Ethan | 1999 |
| Hooper, Narelle | 1998 |
| Warton, Fiona | 1998 |
| Corfield, Gordon | 1997 |
| Marriott, Matthew | 1997 |
| Truloff, DJ | 1996 |
| Ayers, E | 1995 |
Nomination guidelines
The award is open to final year veterinary students from Australian veterinary schools. Each school is invited to nominate one student, judged on their academic achievement and commitment to cattle medicine. One award is given per year, selected from nominations submitted by the Deans of Australian veterinary schools.
Nominations may be submitted by Divisional and Special Interest Group Executive Committees. Self-nominations will not be considered. Secrecy should be maintained throughout the process. If it is necessary to speak with the nominee to gather supporting information, please do so discreetly and make clear that a nomination does not guarantee success.
The AVA Awards Committee is responsible for receiving and assessing all nominations against the published criteria. The AVA Board ratifies all recipients prior to announcement to ensure the suitability of each selection. Winners are notified confidentially before the AVA Gala Dinner.
The Committee, Judges and Board assess nominations against the following criteria:
- Academic performance as a veterinary undergraduate student generally and in cattle medicine in particular
- Demonstrated commitment to cattle medicine through involvement with student groups focused on cattle medicine and related interests
- Other contributions demonstrating an interest in and commitment to the cattle industry and the veterinary profession
- A summary of achievements and interest in cattle medicine
Submit a nomination
Nominations for the Don Kerr Veterinary Student award are now closed. Nominations will open later this year. In the meantime, if you have any questions please contact awards@ava.com.au