AVA Presidents Column

When I joined the AVA as a final year vet student, I had no idea how involved I could become with the Association and how I would come to rely on it for support and guidance.  

It feels like a long time has passed since I managed to take some brief leave over Christmas and New Year. It was nice and refreshing to spend time with my family and take a break from work and AVA on a short trip to Margaret River.

As time fast closes in on Christmas, and the end of 2021, it becomes increasingly apparent to me, not only how fast this year has gone, but also, just how much we, as a profession, have managed to achieve under difficult circumstances, and how much more we can do. 

This month is Mental Health month, and I am excited. Excited because of the feeling, and the feedback that I am receiving from my colleagues, and from the AVA team – the feeling that tells me we are on the cusp of instituting a comprehensive Veterinary Wellness Strategy that will lead the profession toward better mental health and workforce sustainability.