Early-bird registrations are now open for the 2026 AVA Conference, and this year’s equine stream is shaping up to be one of the most compelling yet.
Taking place in Brisbane from 18–21 May 2026, the conference offers equine practitioners a valuable opportunity to deepen clinical expertise, connect with peers, and engage with leading voices in the field.
A major highlight of the program is keynote speaker Professor Joe Mayhew, a globally respected authority in equine neurology. With decades of clinical and academic experience spanning New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom, Professor Mayhew brings a practical, case-based approach to one of the more challenging areas of equine practice.
Prof Mayhew’s sessions:
- What I do and don’t look for in my neurological examinations
- When might you need more fancy imaging and CSF sampling?
- Those jolly wobblers
- Funny looking face: Horner signs, facial paresis and sweating patches
- Is it sleep, seizure or syncope?
Whether it’s syncope, seizures, sleeping, sweating, shaking or stumbling, Joe will walk us through the practical neurological exam from presentation to procedure. Joe understands that tackling neurological problems can often be a daunting task in practice. These sessions will focus on the more common neurological disorders encountered in the horse, how to approach diagnostics, whether advanced imaging or CSF sampling is required and current therapeutics for these problems.
This is a must-attend series for anyone working with horses, particularly those who find neurological cases complex or confronting. Professor Mayhew’s sessions promise not only depth of knowledge, but also practical takeaways that can be applied immediately in the field.
View the full scientific conference program here (filter by Equine tracks)
Looking for a bit more? Start your conference week off with the always popular EVA Pre-Purchase Examination (PPE) Workshop, led by experienced clinicians Kirsten Neil and Nathan Anthony and moving to the Monday (18 May) before the conference for the first time. This fully guided workshop uses EVA’s structured 5-stage PPE framework to build skills in conducting thorough and consistent examinations across a range of equine types, including sport horses, racehorses and young stock. It’s an excellent opportunity to refine technique, improve confidence, and align with best-practice standards. Kindly sponsored by Guild Insurance.
The EVA Equine and Dine social event on 19 May provides a relaxed setting to connect with colleagues, strengthen professional relationships, and engage with the broader equine veterinary community. Kindly sponsored by Randlab.
With a strong equine stream, world-class speakers, and a balance of practical learning and meaningful connection, the 2026 AVA Conference is set to deliver significant value for equine practitioners. Early-bird registration offers the best opportunity to secure your place at a reduced rate.
Register now to be part of this leading veterinary event in Brisbane. Book here: www.ava.com.au/avaconference
Equine sessions on Tuesday 19 May 2026 are proudly sponsored by Zoetis.
