ACV President-Elect Dr Joey Rheinberger is currently attending the World Buiatrics Congress 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey, with several important updates for the cattle veterinary profession and the Association.
A key outcome from the congress was Dr Rheinberger’s appointment as the Oceania Representative on the World Association for Buiatrics (WAB) Board, succeeding Norman Williamson of New Zealand. The appointment is for an eight-year term, covering four congresses. Dr Rheinberger is already considering succession planning to ensure ongoing representation for the region in the future.
The next World Buiatrics Congress will be held in Jeju, South Korea, from 15 to 19 October 2028. Dr Inhyung Lee will be liaising with ACV through Dr Rheinberger regarding potential keynote speakers for the event.
Delegates also confirmed that the 2030 World Buiatrics Congress will be held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Dr Rheinberger reported that the WAB will introduce annual membership fees of €100 per country from 2027, payable by the national cattle veterinary association. For ACV, membership will provide ongoing board representation, voting and bidding rights, and access to WAB-sponsored webinars.
The WAB has also strengthened its international connections through new associations with the International Veterinary Students’ Association (IVSA), the World Veterinary Association (WVA), and WOAH, creating additional opportunities for engagement across the global veterinary profession, including students.
In another development, the WAB has introduced President’s Awards to recognise contributions to the field of buiatrics. Dr Rheinberger will work with ACV leadership to promote these opportunities to members.
Dr Rheinberger said the congress highlighted the value of international collaboration and ensures that Australia continues to have a strong voice in shaping the future of cattle veterinary medicine worldwide.
