National News

Celebrating Human-Animal Bond Day: Compassion that connects communities

Every year on 8 November, Human-Animal Bond Day celebrates and promotes the special bond between humans and animals. This day highlights not just companionship but how meaningful these relationships can be for emotional health, social connection, and community wellbeing.

Consultation: NSW Inquiry into licenses to harm native animals

The AVA is preparing a submission to the NSW Inquiry into licenses to harm native animals, and we are seeking AVA Member feedback to help inform our submission.

Consultation on NSW Cattle Tick Program

The NSW Independent Biosecurity Commissioner is seeking veterinary feedback on the NSW Cattle tick program.

Don Kerr Award Recipient: Dr Arran Hersburgh

At the Australian Veterinary Association’s AVA Awards presentation earlier this year, Dr Arran Hersburgh was announced as the recipient of the prestigious Don Kerr Student Award, which recognises exceptional commitment and academic achievement in cattle medicine.

SIG in the Spotlight: Australian Veterinary Acupuncture Group (AVAG)

The Australian Veterinary Acupuncture Group (AVAG) is a SIG that brings together veterinary practitioners who recognise the benefits of acupuncture supported by evidence-based research. The SIG’s aim is to promote the use of acupuncture in veterinary practice as a drug free, complementary therapy which can be used in conjunction with conventional western medicine and surgery.

Expressions of Interest: WA Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is seeking expressions of interest for membership of the Minister for Agriculture and Food’s Animal Welfare Advisory Committee. The committee provides independent advice to the Minister on animal welfare policy, legislation, and community engagement. Applications close 9.00 am (AWST), 24 November 2025.

VBG Crampton Aspiring Business Leader of the Year: Dr Hugh Willoughby

Dr Hugh Willoughby applied his business acumen to strengthen marketing efforts, improve client retention, and enhance overall practice efficiency.

Meritorious Service Award: Dr Bronwyn Orr

Reflecting on the honour, Dr Orr spoke about how meaningful it was to be recognised by colleagues she deeply respects. She emphasised that the veterinary profession thrives when its members celebrate each other’s successes and support one another in their goals.

Call for Research Abstracts: 2026 AVA Conference

Abstract submission deadline is 22 October 2025. Abstracts may present recent research, clinical projects, case series, or individual case reports covering any area of veterinary science. Selected research presentations will take place on Wednesday 20 May 2026, in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists.

Meritorious Service Award: Dr Michael Kidd

Dr Kidd’s introduction to the AVA occurred during his first year out of university, while working at a practice in Wollongong, New South Wales.