Veterinary Business Group Summit 2023 wrap up
29 Sep 2023As the curtains come down on the 2023 Veterinary Business Group Summit, we reflect on three days of innovation, knowledge sharing and a profound commitment to the betterment of veterinary businesses.
Image: Kate Clarke, VBG Committee Member and speaker Shabeena Hussen with VBG Hub Session delegates
Thursday 14 September – Day One
We began by launching into the world of online marketing, thanks to James Ramsden from Pet Pack and BOQ Specialist, followed by the eagerly awaited "State of the Market" presentation. The ensuing discussion encompassed not just the challenges and opportunities within our industry but also an insightful analysis of our current economic state and future projections.
Changing direction, we heard from the incredible Kate Christie who took us through the power of life lists and audacious goal setting. It was an inspiring experience that left us feeling empowered and ready to conquer our aspirations!
Image: speaker Taleta Hompas, James Cook University
More tangibly, Taleta Hompas highlighted the pivotal role of strategic planning in achieving organisational excellence and David Tabrett shared his expertise on retaining veterinary staff through a unique profit-sharing model. The VBG Hub session was also popular, with topics ranging from financial strategies and management techniques to artificial intelligence, client communication and staff well-being. Every participant left with fresh ideas and valuable new connections.
Image: Diana Barker, AVA President, Sarah Mcgrath, Gregory Knight, David Andrews AVA CEO
At the VBG Awards Cocktail Party we celebrated our 2023 award winners:
- Veterinary Business Thought Leader of the Year: Dr Alicia Kennedy and Cherished Pets 
- Veterinary Business Professional of the Year: Dr Penny Seet
- Veterinary Business of the Year: Moe Veterinary Centre
Read more about their achievements here 2023 Veterinary Business Awards.
Friday 15 September – Day Two
Our second day commenced with another engaging breakfast session, courtesy of Macquarie Bank. The highlight of the morning was Dr Michael Meehan’s workshop - a crowd favourite with his astute observations on conflict management and navigating difficult conversations within the workplace.
The day unfolded with a deep dive into change management by Haidee Gray, accompanied by breakout sessions focusing on financial strategies (Paolo & Anne Lencioni) and human resources (Shabeena Hussen).
Image: delegates working hard during a workshop
We reconvened with Sam Bowden, who reinforced our commitment to carry the newfound enthusiasm and knowledge back to our respective practices. Let us continue to adapt, innovate and lead in this dynamic industry!
We would like to acknowledge the role of our sponsors and exhibitors in making this summit possible. Their support has enriched the experience for all attendees and plays a pivotal role in advancing the veterinary business sector.
Thank you to our incredible speakers, attendees and the organising committee for making this summit a resounding success.
Image: Ryan Tovey, Paws App Pty Ltd speaking with a delegate
“Thanks for such a great event last week – hands down the best conference I have been to in such a long time.”
“It was a really wonderful event, I’ll definitely attend the conference again next year!”
With feedback like this, we are already looking forward to 2024!
Image: Smokey the pig, star of the cocktail evening, sponsored by Vet Pay
Image: VBG Committee members: Michael Ferguson, Moss Siddle, Kate Clarke, Kimberley Moore (AVA Executive Officer VBG), Jeremy Lee, Jason Chuck, Janet Murray (not pictured: Paul Blanc and Gerardo Poli)
Image: Colleen Mandris, Vet Check 24/7 (Medechat) speaking with a delegate
Image: Ramy Hassan, Guild Insurance introducing speaker Taletta Hompas