2026 AVA Awards: Nominations closing soon

Nominations for the 2026 AVA Awards close Monday, 2 February 2026, so now is the time to recognise the colleagues, mentors and peers who make veterinary medicine such a vibrant and forward-looking profession. 

Each year, the profession comes together to honour veterinarians whose contributions are shaping the future of veterinary science in Australia. The AVA Awards represent the highest distinction within the profession - celebrating excellence, innovation, dedication, and service. 

These awards provide an important opportunity to acknowledge not only visible leaders, but also those working behind the scenes to advance and strengthen the veterinary community. 

Awards open for nomination in 2026: 

• Gilruth Prize – The highest honour awarded by the AVA, recognising a lifetime of dedication and service.  

• President’s Award – For an outstanding practical contribution to the profession, selected by the AVA President.  

• Fellow – For exemplary contribution to the Association and the veterinary profession.  

• Meritorious Service Award – For outstanding service to the AVA, its Divisions, Branches, or Special Interest Groups.  

• Emerging Leader Award – Recognising high-achieving individuals within eight years of graduation.  

• Kesteven Medal – For significant and pioneering contributions to international veterinary science.  

• Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award – For outstanding final-year veterinary students committed to cattle medicine.  

• Honorary Member – For exceptional service to the AVA or the veterinary profession.  

The 2026 AVA Award recipients will be announced and celebrated at the AVA Gala Dinner on Wednesday, 20 May in Brisbane, during the 2026 AVA Conference. 

For more details, visit the AVA Awards page or contact awards@ava.com.au.