Meet the Staff at Ballarat Veterinary Companion Animal Clinics

Partners

Dr Stewart Greedy - Companion Animal Clinic Staff

Dr Stewart Greedy BVSc, MANZCVS (Surgery)

Stewart grew up in Melbourne and attended the University of Melbourne, graduating from the Veterinary School in 1995. His first job as a new graduate was here at the Ballarat Veterinary Practice. He spent three years working in the small animal clinic at Sturt Street, before leaving to gain veterinary experience in the UK and to travel. Stewart worked in various practices throughout the UK from Newcastle-upon-Tyne on the northern border, to Hastings on the southern coast as well as Yorkshire, Surrey and London. Stewart returned to Australia and recommenced work at Ballarat Veterinary Practice in July 2000, continuing to work as a companion animal clinician and surgeon.

In July 2002, Stewart gained membership to the Surgery Chapter of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists by examination in Small Animal Surgery. Stewart joined the partnership in July 2007 and continues to enjoy veterinary work, particularly all aspects of surgery including soft tissue and orthopaedics. Stewart is the resident veterinarian on radio 3BA and for statewide drive on local ABC radio. In his leisure time is a keen musician and golfer.

Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Dr Aaron Luttrell

Dr Aaron Luttrell BVSc

Aaron graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Melbourne in 1999. Since then he has been working as a small animal veterinarian at the Ballarat Veterinary Practice. During his time at BVP, Aaron has developed a special interest in avian and exotic animal medicine. This interest stems from Aaron's childhood interest in birds and other small pets, having always had aviaries of budgies, canaries, finches and cockatiels, and cages of guinea-pigs, rabbits, and the odd turtle pond.

His current menagerie consists of an aviary of canaries (which he is trying to extend but has to contend with his wife and kids need for space in the backyard), two miniature dachshunds and a domestic short haired cat. Apart from his interest in animals, Aaron plays and coaches hockey and enjoys following the Brisbane Lions with his kids in the winter months.

Ballarat Vet Practice - Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Paul Dempsey - Managing Director BVP

Paul Dempsey B App Sc. Ag., MBA.

Managing Director, BVP
Paul comes to BVP with over 15 years experience in senior management and leadership roles in the Agribusiness and retail sectors. With skills in general and operations management, Paul is a commercial business leader who adopts a pragmatic, hands-on approach. Originally from the Canberra region, much of Paul's experience has been gained throughout many areas of NSW including the New England, Hunter Valley and Southern NSW regions before moving to Ballarat nearly 10 years ago with his wife and family.
Paul has a degree in Agriculture from the University of Western Sydney, a Masters in Business Administration from the University of New England and more recently has completed the Advanced Management Program through the University of Melbourne’s Mt Eliza Business School. Paul is a keen Mountain biker and self confessed DIYer. He enjoys spending time with his family and staying fit with riding and long distance running.

Veterinarians

Dr Richard Lawrence

Dr Richard Lawrence

BVetMed

Richard was born in the UK and trained at the Royal Veterinary College, qualifying in 1980. From there, Richard spent 5 years in busy rural practice learning the ropes and gaining experience in all aspects of general practice. In 1980 he was offered a position to manage a small animal clinic in Melbourne and left the UK for a 1 year sabbatical abroad. 28 years later he is still in his adopted country and has been a partner of the Ballarat Veterinary Practice for 15 years.
Richard works at the Wendouree Veterinary Clinic spending most of his work hours there but also utilizes the main practice hospital facilities to pursue his interest in the more challenging surgical procedures. Apart from his daily work at the clinic Richard has also co-authored a book (Dogs for Dummies).
Dr Lynda Kitchin

Dr Lynda Kitchin

BVSc

Lynda studied Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney, graduating in 2003. She then made the move to Ballarat in 2004 and has happily worked at Ballarat Veterinary Practice since. Lynda enjoys all aspects of veterinary science, especially the medical diagnostic side. Outside of work Lynda enjoys reading but also likes to get out and about walking her Cocker Spaniel, Indiana and during summer playing softball.
Dr Ruth Duncan BVSc

Dr Ruth Duncan BVSc

BVSc

Ruth completed her Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 1997 at Massey University in Palmerston North, New Zealand. She then jumped the ditch and worked for 3 years in Mildura, before traveling and working in the UK for 12 months. Having met and married a local farmer she moved to Ballarat and began working at Ballarat Veterinary Practice. Ruth has a keen interest in all aspects of veterinary science with an interest in treating the behavioural problems our pets can develop. At present she is working part time as she is enjoying raising her family and helping on the farm.
Dr Horace Tang

Dr Horace Tang

BVSc

“Horace (He/Him) graduated from University of Melbourne in 2010 and joined the team at the Ballarat Veterinary Practice in 2011. He has a particular interest in veterinary dentistry and feline medicine. Horace grew up in Hong Kong and can speak fluent English, Cantonese & Mandarin.

Outside of work, Horace enjoys traveling, singing and going to the theatre. He has been involved in numerous musical productions. Horace is the proud owner of a three-legged cat named Thomas, which he adopted from the Clinic after being rescued from gunshot injury.”

Dr Louise Andrado

Dr Louise Andrado

BVSc

Louise graduated from The University of Melbourne Veterinary School in 2001. Her first job was at the busy Melbourne headquarters of the RSPCA where she quickly brushed up her surgical and medical skills. After this, she worked in England for a year and then returned to locum throughout many clinics in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. After settling down to work in Sunbury for a number of years, she then went on maternity leave to raise her son.

She joined the Ballarat Veterinary Practice in 2015 after moving to Ballarat with her family. Louise enjoys practising all aspects of veterinary care, but particularly enjoys internal medicine, ophthalmology and ultrasonography. Louise’s other interests include spending time with her husband Daniel and son Sebastian, travel, movies, food and catching up with friends.

Dr Melissa Hutchinson

Dr Melissa Hutchinson

BVSc, MANZCVS (Internal Medicine)

Dr Melissa Hutchison obtained her Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Melbourne. Mel worked at a mixed animal general practice in Woodend before starting an Oncology Internship in October 2014 at the Victorian Animal Cancer Centre which she completed in March 2016.

In her spare time Mel enjoys spending time with her fur babies, the extremely large black cat Elmo, crazy terrier cross Lexie and her cheeky thoroughbred Dephi.

Dr Jorge Baron

Dr Jorge Baron

BVSc

Jorge completed his training at the National University of Colombia in 2005.  Since graduating, Jorge has gaining valuable experience working in everything from public health to mixed practice.  A few years ago, Jorge made the decision to stop mixed practice and focus his attention on small animals.  He enjoys surgery, and loves working with new equipment like the endoscope and all it’s accessories.

When not at work, Jorge enjoys riding his mountain bike around Ballarat and watching movies with his three cats.

Dr Catalina Castillo

Dr Catalina Castillo

BVSc

After completing a Degree in Veterinary Science in Colombia, Catalina moved to Australia in 2007.  Catalina  spent time in the Hunter Valley and Gippsland working in mixed practices. In December 2018,  Catalina joined Eureka Veterinary Hospital and BVP.  She absolutely loves being a vet with special interests in internal medicine, emergency and soft tissue surgery.

In her free time, Catalina enjoys hiking, reading and spending time with her cats.

Dr Tahlia Cuzens

Dr Tahlia Cuzens

BVSc

Tahlia graduated from James Cook University, QLD in 2021.

Tahlia has since spent time working in mixed practice and conducting research on koalas, prior to joining our team.

In her spare time, Tahlia likes to explore the outdoors (especially finding waterfalls), cooking and spending time with friends and family.

Dr Santiago Neumann

Dr Santiago Neumann

BSc (VB), DVM

Dr Santiago (Santi) started his career at an early age by watching his dad work as a veterinarian overseas. Growing up in view of the profession he circled back and followed in the footsteps. Santi joined the team in 2022 after graduating from Adelaide University the year before.

He has a particular interest in diagnostic imaging but enjoys the challenges of internal medicine and surgery.

In his time off he is big on camping, traveling and likes to play a little guitar.”

Dr Jeffrey Khong

Dr Jeffrey Khong

BSc (Vet Bio), DVM

Jeffrey grew up in Ballarat and returned to his home town to work after completing his degree at the University of Adelaide, commencing with Ballarat Veterinary Practice in 2023.

Outside of work, Jeffrey is a keen hiking enthusiast and is often frequenting local cafes with friends.

Dr Alri Lightley

Dr Alri Lightley

BVSc

Alri moved to Australia  in July 2023 to join the companion animal team at the Ballarat Veterinary Practice.

Having completed Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria in 2021, Alri completed a year of compulsory community service in Strydkraal, a rural town in South Africa.  She then worked in a small animal private practice in Cape Town before relocating to Australia with her husband.

Alri enjoys getting out for a jog and hiking, a great way to explore Ballarat.  A Netflix series or a good book are also a favourite pastime.

Dr Annaliese Cosgriff

Dr Annaliese Cosgriff

BVSc

Dr Annaliese Cosgriff graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science from Charles Sturt University in 2023.

We are delighted to welcome Anna back to BVP as a veterinarian; visitors to the Equine Clinic may remember that Anna was part of the Stable Attendant Team back in 2017!

Outside of work, Anna enjoys dancing (ballet, jazz and contemporary) as well as spending time with family and friends.

Dr Karen Davidson

Dr Karen Davidson

Karen was born in Germany and graduated from the University of Gießen in 2008.

She then moved to Australia and completed the National Veterinary Exam in November 2009 and worked in mixed animal practices in Victoria’s Western District. Karen joined BVP in early 2021.

Karen loves encountering Australian wildlife in the practice as well as out of it and has a keen interest in surgical cases and furthering her skills in the operating theatre.

When she is not in the Clinic she spends her time with her family and her Whippet Nelson.

Dr Caitlin Morris

Dr Caitlin Morris

BAnimalVetBiosc, BVSc

Caitlin holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Bioscience from Latrobe University (2008).

After working as a veterinary nurse at BVP, Caitlin was inspired her to pursue further studies. In 2023 she graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from James Cook University!

Outside of work, Caitlin enjoys gardening, spending time outdoors, arts, crafts and, of course, spoiling her beloved dogs!!!

 

Dr Lyann Tan

Dr Lyann Tan

BVetMed

Dr Lyann Tan graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in London and spent 6 months completing an internship at Taiwan University Hospital.

Prior to moving to London, she completed a Diploma in Veterinary Technology in Singapore.

Her interests outside of work include travel, hiking and photography.

 

Nursing Team

Ballarat Vet Practice - Meet the Team - Sue Phillips VN

Sue Phillips – Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing

Director of Nursing
Sue achieved her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2008. Her interests outside of work are numerous. She holds a Certificate IV in Relaxation Massage, as well as being involved in a pet minding business, Sue's Petcare. Sue also loves spending time with her husband Stuart. She is training to be a dog show judge and has been showing and breeding pugs since 1993.

Sonya Mellington – Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing

Clinic Manager Ballarat Veterinary Practice
Sonya grew up on a farm in the Mallee with a love for animals and so had many pets. Sonya commenced her career in animal care at a vet clinic in Werribee where she spent almost 4 years. Sonya and her partner then moved to Jerilderie in NSW where Sonya started worked at a vet clinic in Wagga Wagga for 18 months. With a sea change to the Central Coast of NSW, Sonya worked in a small animal clinic in Umina and a mixed practice in Ourimbah for 12 months before moving back to Victoria. Sonya commenced at Eureka Vet Hospital in 2006 and after 15 years, became the Clinic Manager at the Sturt Street Practice. In her spare time she is kept busy looking after her horses, her dog Spotty and her cat Archie.

Sonya grew up on a farm in the Mallee and with a instant love of animals had many pets.  Sonya commenced her career in animal care at a vet clinic in Werribee where she spent almost 4 years.

Sonya and her partner then moved to Jerilderie in NSW where Sonya started worked at a vet clinic in Wagga Wagga for 18 months. With a sea change to the Central Coast of NSW, Sonya  worked in a small animal clinic in Umina and a mixed practice in Ourimbah for 12 months before moving back to Victoria.

Sonya commenced at Eureka Vet Hospital in 2006 and after 15 years, became the Clinic Manager at the Sturt Street Practice.

In her spare time she is kept busy looking after her horses, her dog Spotty and her cat Archie. 

Shoned Hawksworth – Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing

Clinic Manager Wendouree Veterinary Clinic

Shoned has worked in the Veterinary industry for over 20 years, originally from the UK she became a registered British veterinary nurse in 2005. In 2012 she moved to Hong Kong where she was the hospital manager of an exotics clinic and gained additional qualifications in Australian Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Nursing of Exotic Species, Canine and Feline Nutrition, an Advanced Diploma of Higher Education in Veterinary Nursing and also became a qualified Trainer and Assessor.  

In 2017 she made the move to Australia to work as a Veterinary Nurse educator; before joining the Ballarat Veterinary Practice in 2021 as Wendouree’s Clinic Manager. Shoned has also completed a Diploma in Leadership and Management.

In her spare time, Shoned enjoys powerlifting and strength training, spending time with her two dogs and three cats as well as watching and listening to live music. 

Kim Pollard – Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing

Clinic Manager Lucas Veterinary Clinic
Kim joined Ballarat Veterinary Practice in 2002 and left in 2009 to raise a family. She rejoined the team again in 2018 as a veterinary nurse and is currently the Clinic Manager at our Lucas Clinic. Kim completed her certificate IV in veterinary nursing in 2008. She has been an AVNAT registered nurse since 2022. While she loves all animals she has a keen interest in cats.

At home Kim and her husband Ashley have three boys, two dogs and two cats. When everyone isn’t at school or work they enjoy doing things as a family, going to basketball, and traveling around.

Human Resources

 

Ballarat Vet Practice - Meet the Team - Claire McAteer BMan HR, MAHRI

Claire McAteer – BMan (HR), CPHR, MAHRI

Assistant to the Managing Director
After completing a Bachelor of Management (HR) and spending time working in the recruitment sector in the UK, Claire spent eight years employed in the Executive Office of Bunnings Group Limited, at their head office in Hawthorn.
Claire returned to her hometown of Ballarat with her young family, and after spending five years as a busy full-time mum to her two girls, she made the decision to return to the workforce in 2014 by joining the team at BVP. Claire is a Certified HR Practitioner, having gained her accreditation through the Australian Human Resources Institute in 2021. Her proudest achievement in her time at BVP was being instrumental in BVP being the first group of practices in Australia to be awarded Employer of Choice accreditation by the Australian Veterinary Association.

Companion Animal Clinic Staff at Ballarat Veterinary Practice

Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Rob and Patient
Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Pug
Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Zoe and Beagle
Ballarat Vet Practice - Alex WVC
Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Cat Bloods
Companion Animal Clinic Staff - Baby Roo and Dr Liz

Contact the Companion Animal Clinic Staff at Ballarat Veterinary Practice

To get in touch with Companion Animal Clinic Staff, you can get in touch via our contact page.

To keep up with the latest from the Companion Animal Teams, you can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Pet Emergency?

If you have an AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY between the hours of 6pm and 8am please call

Companion Animal Emergency Number

(03) 5331 1533