Head & Neck Surgical Oncology
2 Days of Practical, Hands-On Learning
Confidently tackle the cases you’re already seeing in practice
March 6th - 7th, 2026
University of Queensland, Gatton Campus
Vets CPD points: NSW: 23.5 // Others: 15
Early Bird Special
Save $150 When You Register by 24th September 2026!
Your investment: $3,400 AUD (Normally $3,550 AUD)
Early Bird Ends 24th September 2026
Watch the Workshop Experience
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Is This Workshop For You?
Our Head & Neck Surgical Oncology workshop is a game-changer CPD selection for general practitioners focusing on fundamental surgical resections and reconstructions for canine and feline oncology cases.
These cases are extremely common, and seen routinely in clinical practice. Participants will gain fundamental and advanced skills that can be applied right away to expand and improve the options they offer clients.
Expect to get to grips with axial and advancement flaps, nasal planectomy and eyelid and lip resection. Follow this with the approach to the ventral neck including thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy and lymph node extirpation.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Develop a systematic approach to biopsy, staging and surgical margin selection for head and neck tumours.
- Plan and perform advanced oral and facial oncologic procedures, including mandibulectomy, maxillectomy, nasal planectomy, and eyelid and lip resection.
- Apply reconstructive techniques, including axial and advancement flaps, using relevant anatomical landmarks.
- Perform thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy and cervical lymph node extirpation using appropriate ventral neck approaches.
- Develop comprehensive peri-operative care plans, including analgesia and management of post-operative complications.
- Evaluate tumour prognosis and integrate adjuvant therapies through evidence-based decision-making and real-life clinical cases.
This is a wet-lab rich experience. Look forward to performing basic mandibulectomy and maxillectomy techniques in one of many relevant and competency-driven hands-on practicals.
You don’t need to have carried out these procedures already to attend – the whole aim is to get you doing them!
Why This Workshop is Different
Confidence Beyond Lumpectomies
It’s natural to feel unsure about trying new surgical techniques on your patients in everyday practice, there’s rarely opportunity for practice-runs. This workshop is designed to change that!
Keep More Cases In-House
You’ll learn and practice surgical oncology techniques that’ll allow you to tackle cases you might have referred in the past.
Hands-On Experience
It’s all about time on the tools. We prioritise procedures and surgical practice so you have time to see the skills and do the skills with specialist guidance.
Personalised Feedback
As a participant, you’ll get real-time feedback on your surgical planning and execution with the chance to refine your approach with experienced practitioners.
Inside the Workshop:
Build Your Skills
Head & Neck Surgical Oncology is a hands-on wet-lab weekend for vets ready to expand their skills into head and neck surgical reconstructive procedures. No expensive or specialised equipment required, just foundational surgical skills, a scalpel and your DeBakeys.
Beyond the Scalpel
Our expert surgeons will prepare you to perform the procedures in practical sessions, while also covering biopsy techniques, adjuvant therapies, post-op complications, analgesia and the latest advances in surgical oncology.
Your VetPrac Experience
This hands-on, skills-based format is the hallmark of VetPrac training, and it’s what will get you started on these surgeries in your own clinic from Monday. Expect expert guidance, practical insights, and a welcoming, supportive environment – with lunches, breaks and an unmissable delegate dinner included.
Workshop Breakdown
What’s Included?
2 Full Days of Training with 8 Hours of Practical Lab Time
All Materials & Equipment Provided
Vets earn CPD Certificate with 23.5 Points NSW, 15 Points all other states.
A printed practical handbook & digital notes to review on your own time
Lunch, Morning Tea & Afternoon Tea
Need to Travel?
We’ll send you a recommended
accommodation list and provide the details you need ahead of time.
Your Educators
Dr Katherine Steele
Qualifications: BVSc MVS MVSc MANZCVS DipECVS
Dr Katherine Steele graduated from the University of Queensland in 2008 and completed rotating and surgical internships in Brisbane. In 2012, she became a member of the ANZCVS Surgery Chapter and later moved to Victoria to complete a residency in Small Animal Surgery at the University of Melbourne. She earned a Master of Veterinary Studies in 2016 and a Master of Veterinary Science in 2017, the same year she became a board-certified Small Animal Surgery Specialist through the European College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Katherine returned to Brisbane in 2016 and has worked in private referral practice ever since. She has a strong interest in soft tissue surgery and surgical oncology and has been working exclusively in surgical oncology since joining the ARH Brisbane Oncology team in 2024.
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys time with her husband and two young children. She loves exploring the outdoors, especially skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Dr Maurine Thomson
Qualifications:B.V.Sc, FANZCVS, Fellowship in Surgical Oncology
Maurine is a specialist surgeon and surgical oncologist who has worked exclusively in oncology since 1998. With over two decades of experience, she has dedicated her career to advancing cancer care and mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals. She has trained numerous students, interns, and residents, sharing her deep knowledge and passion for surgical oncology. Maurine enjoys all aspects of the field but has a particular interest in reconstructive surgery, where she applies both technical precision and creativity to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Dr Andres Townsend
Qualifications: BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Small Animal Surgery)
Dr Townsend is a skilled general practitioner with a passion for surgery. He holds Membership in Surgery (MANZCVS) through the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists, reflecting his advanced expertise and dedication to surgical excellence.
As Clinical Director of a busy small animal clinic on the Gold Coast, he brings extensive experience and advanced training to his role. His commitment to surgical excellence ensures that every procedure is performed with precision and the highest standard of care. Andres is highly regarded in the veterinary field for his dedication to achieving outstanding surgical outcomes.
Dr Tristram Bennett
Qualifications: BVSC (Dist), MANZCVS (Small Animal Surgery), DACVS-SA, DECVS, ACVS Fellow, Surgical Oncology
Dr Tristram Bennett is a specialist surgeon and surgical oncologist at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) in Sydney. He graduated from Massey University (NZ) in 2010 and spent several years in general practice before completing a surgical residency at Brisbane Veterinary Specialist Centre and a Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Colorado State University.
Tristram joined the SASH surgical team in 2017 and has a strong interest in soft tissue and oncologic surgery. He is passionate about providing advanced surgical care and improving outcomes for pets with complex conditions.
Payment Options
Secure Your Spot Before Prices Increase!
Early Bird Offer Ends In:
What Vets Are Saying
Hear It from Past Attendees:
– Dr. Anita Barton
– Dr Hayat Zailan
Don’t Miss Out!
Reserve Your Spot Now
Only 32 Places Available
Investment: $3,400 Early Bird Price
Vets earn 23.5 points NSW, 15 points all other states.
Ready to take your skills to the next level? Secure your place today!
Addressing Common Questions
"I don’t have time to take off work. Why should I attend?"
Because this is the kind of workshop that pays time back in practice.
Head and neck tumours can be challenging, especially when you’re deciding what to remove, how to approach the surgery and how to reconstruct the defect. This workshop gives you the opportunity to learn by doing, building practical skills and confidence you can take straight back to your clinic.
One focused weekend could open up a whole new range of surgical options for your patients.
"Can I split the payment between myself and my workplace?"
Yes. If you have a CE budget available through your clinic or workplace, we’re happy to arrange split invoicing to help make registration easier.
Many participants choose to divide the workshop cost between their employer contribution and personal payment. Simply contact the VetPrac team ([email protected]) prior to registration and we can help organise the invoicing arrangement for you.
"Will I actually be able to apply these skills?"
This workshop is designed around hands-on learning, with wet-lab sessions where you’ll perform key head and neck oncologic procedures yourself, including resections and reconstructive techniques.
You won’t leave as a specialist, you’ll leave with practical skills, greater confidence and more surgical options you can apply to your very next case.
"Will I receive CPD points, a certificate, and learning materials?"
Yes. Every participant in the Head & Neck Surgical Oncology Workshop will earn CPD points and receive a personalised CPD certificate, emailed within seven days of the workshop. You’ll also receive comprehensive learning materials, including digital course notes and a printed practical guide, so you can continue revisiting key techniques and tips long after the workshop.
"What happens if I need to cancel or the workshop is cancelled?"
If you need to transfer or change your registration to another workshop, an administration fee of $50 applies. Cancellations made within 45 days of the workshop start date will incur a fee equal to 50% of the course investment, and cancellations within 7 days of commencement are non-refundable.
If VetPrac needs to cancel your registration to the Head & Neck Surgical Oncology Workshop, your course fees will be refunded in full. Please note that VetPrac cannot be held responsible for any travel, accommodation or other associated expenses incurred.