OUR EDUCATION LEADERS

Qualifications: RVN, AVN, Cert IV VN, DipVN(Surgical)

Leanne’s love for pets lead to her veterinary nursing career beginning in 2005 in a small animal general practice. In 2012, she seized the opportunity to work in a referral practice along-side board certified specialist surgeons and referral neurologists and internists. Over this time, she has completed her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Surgical) and advanced her skills, knowledge and passion for surgical assistance, anaesthesia and analgesia, theatre management and sterile supply. At the beginning of 2023, Leanne sought the opportunity to expand her skills in anaesthesia and analgesia and oromaxillofacial surgery and develop a skill set in specialty dentistry. Over her career, Leanne has enjoyed mentoring as well as learning from her colleagues and is dedicated to the endless journey of professional development.

Leanne enjoys all aspects of surgical nursing, striving for the highest standards of care with each patient. Throughout her career, Leanne has mentored colleagues by sharing her knowledge and passion for surgery, and is now expanding to embrace her passion for education in the wider veterinary nurse community.

Qualifications: VTS (exotic companion animals) BApSci, Cert IV Vet Nurse, RVN

Rebecca began her career with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Wildlife Biology and Animal Production from the University of Queensland (2008), later moving into veterinary nursing and management. During her time at a leading Australian veterinary teaching hospital, she worked closely with specialists across multiple disciplines, particularly avian medicine,
which sparked her passion for exotic pet care and mentoring future veterinary professionals.

In 2022, she earned her Veterinary Technician Specialist (Exotic Companion Animals) credential, and in 2025 transitioned into an exotics-focused clinic, where she continues to advance patient care while supporting and educating veterinary teams globally.

Qualifications: RVN, AVN, DipVN(GP), DipVN(Surgery)

Rhonda has over 20 years of experience spanning general practice, specialty surgery and anaesthesia, emergency and critical care, as well as management and professional development. She holds Diplomas in Veterinary Nursing (General Practice and Surgery), is RECOVER certified, an accredited Mental Health First Aid Officer, and has maintained VNCA Accreditation since 2009. One of the first AVNAT Registered Veterinary Nurses in Australia, Rhonda was named VNCA National Veterinary Nurse of the Year in 2023. Passionate about advancing veterinary nursing, she lectures and teaches nationally and internationally, with clinical interests in anaesthesia, loco-regional analgesia, surgery and critical care.

Qualifications: RVN

Before embarking on her career as a veterinary nurse, Sabrina earned a Bachelor’s degree in English/Spanish Translation. After relocating to Australia in 2012, she went on to complete her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2016. Since then, she has developed a strong focus in Emergency and Critical Care (ECC). Sabrina completed the Elevate Emergency Nursing Program in 2021 and recently achieved her Certificate in Veterinary Nursing (ECC) through Vets Now.

She is currently working as an ECC Nurse at The Animal Hospital at Murdoch University and is pursuing her Veterinary Technician Specialisation in Emergency and Critical Care. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her beloved cat and her very spoilt miniature Fox Terrier.

Qualifications: Dip An Tech, Cert IV VN, Cert IV TAE, MHFA

With a lifelong passion for animal behaviour that began in her early teens through dog training, Sam has dedicated more than 25 years to veterinary education. Her career began with training veterinary nurses at TAFE before moving into the university sector, where she supported the education of both veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

Now an Online Course Facilitator with VetPrac, Sam combines her love of teaching, animal behaviour, and supporting the veterinary profession. Outside of work, she enjoys recharging by spending time with family and exploring the outdoors through camping.

Qualifications: BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Surgery)

Shin Yin graduated from Murdoch University, Perth in 2016 and began her career in busy small animal practices across regional Victoria and New South Wales, where she gained extensive clinical experience. She went on to complete a Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound at the University of Melbourne, further strengthening her diagnostic skills. In 2024, Shin Yin achieved membership in the Surgery Chapter through the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and commenced a residency in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation with the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (ACVSMR). She is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT), enabling her to deliver holistic, evidence based care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Qualifications: BA (Soc Sc), VN, VTS (Dentistry)

Tracey Small, B.A. (Soc. Sc.), VN Dip, VTS (Dentistry), is a highly experienced veterinary nurse with over 30 years in practice and more than 20 years dedicated to dentistry. Her passion for the field was sparked working alongside Dr David Clarke, Diplomate AVDC and Registered Specialist in Veterinary Dentistry.
She completed her Veterinary Nurse Diploma (Dentistry) in 2012 and earned her VTS (Dentistry) in 2024. Tracey has assisted in dental workshops, presented widely, and written quarterly dental articles for The Australian Veterinarian. She is currently the Managing Editor of the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry.
Tracey is passionate about veterinary dental education and sharing practical knowledge with both professionals and clients. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, hiking, birdwatching, and time with her children in the Dandenong Ranges, where the natural bushland and birdlife inspire her art.

Qualifications: BVSc (Hons) BSc (Vet) MANCVS

Winston became a member of the Dental Chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in 2008. He co-directs the Northside Veterinary Centre that offers referrals for veterinary dentistry.

Winston set up the first veterinary dental X-ray unit in Canberra and is very keen to spread the word on dentistry. He is passionate about improving dentistry in the veterinary profession, from the ground up, and thoroughly enjoys mentoring general practitioners and local vets.