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Every cat parent knows the incredible bond with their local vet, who is there for everything from vaccinations to emergency cuddles. But the dedication of veterinarians in New South Wales is a crucial safeguard that extends far beyond the kitty consultation room. Their work sets the highest standards for all animal care, helps prevent national disease outbreaks, and even protects our food supply.
The Veterinary Practitioners Board New South Wales recently shone a light on this essential, often invisible, work by announcing the winners of the prestigious 2025 Centenary Awards.
The Veterinary Profession: More Than Just Treating Pets
“Veterinarians don’t just care for animals; we safeguard people, communities and the environment. Our work sits at the intersection of science, ethics and public wellbeing,” said Dr. Magdoline Awad, President of the Veterinary Practitioners Board.
Established in 2024 to celebrate 100 years since the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1923 formalised veterinary registration in NSW, the awards recognized three exceptional leaders across the vital areas of One Health, One Welfare, and Professional Practice.
Focus on Feline Welfare: The One Welfare Champion
The work most immediately relevant to cat owners was celebrated with the One Welfare Award, presented to Veterinarian Dr. Tanya Carter. Dr. Carter was honoured for establishing and successfully managing the community-focused practice, the Haberfield Veterinary Hospital in Sydney.
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| Dr. Tanya Carter gently restraining a rescue puppy on an examination table, illustrating the comprehensive One Welfare approach of her award-winning practice. |
She has also attained post-graduate qualifications and published in animal welfare, ethics and law, and served as President of the Animal Welfare and Ethics special interest group of the Australian Veterinary Association.
Dr. Carter’s work is a powerful demonstration of One Welfare, which she describes simply:
“So much of (veterinary) work is about serving our communities by caring for animals, supporting the people who love them and contributing to broader welfare, ethics and environmental issues.”
“Helping animals means helping people — that’s the essence of One Welfare and it’s at the heart of everything I do.”Behind the Scenes: Keeping Australia's Communities Healthy
The remaining two awards acknowledge the profound scientific and ethical foundation that supports the entire Australian community—including the clinic that treats your cat—by ensuring high standards and controlling diseases.
Public Health's Veterinary Shield: The One Health Leader
University of Sydney Associate Professor Dr. John House received the One Health Award for his outstanding contributions in advanced veterinary diagnostics, disease prevention, herd health, animal welfare, and food system resilience.
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| Associate Professor Dr. John House: Honoured with the One Health Award for protecting community health through veterinary diagnostics and critical outreach. |
One Health is an approach that acknowledges the inseparable link between the health of people, animals, and the environment. Dr. House’s work in areas like antimicrobial stewardship (ensuring medicines remain effective) and education protects every member of society.
“When I look back, all the different parts of my career — clinical work, teaching, research, supporting farmers and their families — really do reflect the One Health approach. For me, this Award acknowledges not just the work with animals but also the relationships with people and the constant learning that continues throughout a veterinary career.”
Upholding Ethical & Practice Integrity: Adjunct Professor Dr. Ian Lean
The Professional Practice Award went to University of Sydney Adjunct Professor Dr. Ian Lean. As Managing Director of Scibus and Cows R Us, he is acknowledged nationally and internationally as a leading dairy scientist.
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| Adjunct Professor Dr. Ian Lean: Professional Practice Award winner, recognized for establishing high professional standards that benefit all vets, including those in companion animal care. |
“Production animal practice isn’t very visible to the public anymore, but it remains one of the most important parts of our profession because it supports animal health, rural livelihoods and the wider Australian economy. This award means a great deal because this has been my life’s work: improving herd health, farm viability and the integrity of the food chain.”
A Legacy of Commitment and Community Impact
Since the legislation formalized the profession, over 11,700 veterinarians have served across NSW, with almost 5,000 currently registered today.
Dr. Awad emphasized the profession’s essential nature: “During COVID, veterinarians were deemed an essential service because our role matters, and it continues to matter every day.”
She also highlighted their commitment to the community: “Whether it’s disaster response or pro-bono local initiatives, vets regularly volunteer their time and skills... work that often goes unrecognised.”
Together, the 2025 recipients showcase the wide reach and dedication of modern veterinary careers, spanning ethical leadership, community practice, research, and teaching. As Dr. Awad concluded:
“For more than a century, veterinarians have protected the health and welfare of animals, people and the environment. That’s a legacy we all share and one that reminds us we are privileged to call ourselves vets.”
More information about the Centenary Awards can be found at: www.vpb.nsw.gov.au/news/centenary-awards
Photo Credit (all): Veterinary Practitioners Board NSW
