The Andrews Labor Government today announced new appointments to the Veterinary Practitioners Registration Board of Victoria, which oversees the performance of the state’s veterinarians.
Six new members have been appointed, including three veterinarians, a lawyer and a business expert. Three existing members have also returned to serve for another three years.
New members include veterinary practitioners Dr Andrew Giddy, Dr Rachael Peacock, and Dr Allison Stewart, lawyer Owen Mahoney, business expert Kathryn Johns and former Medical Board of Australia member Kerren Clark.
Returning members include Dr Tracey Bradley, Dr David Beggs as Deputy President and Dr Peter Mansell as President. All members will serve until March 2019.
The application process was highly competitive, with more than 50 applications received.
The board protects the health and welfare of animals by ensuring Victoria’s veterinarians are well qualified and abide by contemporary standards of professional conduct.
It oversees veterinary training courses and recognises qualifications, ensures veterinarians are competent to practice and issues guidelines for veterinarians and their facilities.
It also investigates any professional conduct issues, imposes sanctions where necessary and keeps the government informed about the state of the veterinary profession in Victoria.
The Labor Government thanks outgoing members, Dr Michael Doyle, Dr Andrew Gould, Alan Gaskell, Janet Cohen, Jennifer Wilkins and outgoing President, Dr Roslyn Nichol.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“Well-trained, highly qualified veterinarians are a vital link in educating Victorians about the health and wellbeing of their animals and in providing the best possible care.”
“Animal welfare is top priority for the Andrews Labor Government – and with a robust Veterinary Board we know the animals in our homes, paddocks and zoos are in safe hands.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020