WA Division President's Report June 2024
04 Jun 2024Dear WA AVA Members,
I hope this month finds you not just well, but THRIVING. The recent AVA Conference in Melbourne themed “Living Well” was a resounding success thanks to the participation and enthusiasm of so many of our dedicated colleagues. We all know conferences provide ample opportunity to stuff our brains with knowledge that we can share with our clinics and also to weave new neural networks of support, ideas and conversations. I wanted to share with WA 2 big picture thoughts coming back from Melbourne:
It’s almost impossible to get your head around the breadth and depth of what the AVA does. From investigating policies that protect many animal species and human welfare, to tacking advocacy projects that are as diverse as a 64 box of Crayola crayons, to matching the interests of Divisions, Branches, SIGS, and sponsors, to holding social events that facilitate conversation, thought provocation, growth, collegiality and of course a good deal of fun. I think it can be easy to overlook all the AVA does when it feels like the extent of your interaction is reading newsletters and emails. So I invite you to utilise your membership and explore the areas that interest you. Connection is one of the greatest benefits of the AVA and I think it’s so important that all our veterinary professionals know they are part of something bigger than themselves.
Following on from that it is my sincere belief that Western Australia is estranged from many of the connection opportunities that the AVA offers, such as big conferences and SIG events. However, as I mentioned at the THRIVE symposium, growth needs to come from both sides. In the way that both employers and employees are responsible for improving lines of communication, both the membership and the decision-making committees need to communicate wants and needs. The WA AVA committee greatly needs passionate individuals to help unify our state and profession. I again encourage members to contact me to discuss expressions of interest in getting involved at the Division (advocacy) or Branch (events) level. Many of the special interest groups discussed a keen interest in holding a joint WA/SIG event in 2025 but I need YOUR help to make it happen.
I couldn’t possibly summarise all the little bits and pieces I picked up at the conference, but I do know that I left with a full head and heart as I continue to advocate for Western Australian vets and stakeholders.
Be well,
Dr Katie Kreutz
0449 105 451
Pictured: A representative from each of the state Veterinary Practice Boards sat on a panel to discuss issues facing the profession.
