Exciting new award takes centre stage for 2025 AVA Awards

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is once again preparing to celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership with the 2025 AVA Awards nominations now open. Representing the pinnacle of distinction within the veterinary profession, the AVA Awards recognise veterinarians who drive our profession forwards, thanks to their innovative scientific achievements, their dedication and service. 

In 2025, a new award category will be introduced, to recognise a high achieving individual, who is within 8 years of completion of university and currently working in the veterinary profession. The Emerging Leader Award recognises young leaders within the profession who have already made a notable contribution to the sector and have demonstrated the potential for leadership and continuing service.   

Nominees for this award will demonstrate initiative and be actively contributing to the profession in a meaningful and impactful way. They will be contributing to a work/or voluntary environment that is respectful, collegiate and supportive, and be an excellent role model for other emerging professionals in the veterinary profession.  

The 2025 AVA Awards will continue to feature 7 other prestigious categories. 

2024 AVA Awards Meritorious Award winner, Dr Moss Siddle believes the AVA Awards are a great opportunity to nominate your peers, mentors and colleagues who have contributed so much to the profession. 

“It is important to give recognition to those people because they are giving all the time, and don’t expect anything in return. It means a lot to be appreciated by the AVA and get recognition from colleagues in the industry that their time and effort, is appreciated and worthwhile.” 

Reflecting on what it means to be recognised, 2024 President’s Award winner Dr Alicia Kennedy said “I felt really grateful and honoured to be recognised by the AVA and the AVA President. 

“This award has truly amplified our voice in the community and strengthened our credibility. It enhances the story of what we’re trying to do and tackle every day, helping others understand the meaningful impact of our work.” 

From today, until Saturday 8 March, the following awards are open for nomination: 

The Gilruth Prize – This is the highest honour awarded each year by the AVA and represents peer recognition for many years – often a lifetime – of dedication and service of the highest degree. Nominations may be submitted by the Divisional and Special Interest Group Executive Committees. 

President’s Award – Selected by the current AVA president, this award recognises an outstanding practical contribution, particularly within the preceding 5 years. Nominated by the President of the Australian Veterinary Association.

Fellow – for exemplary contribution to the Association and the veterinary profession. Divisional and Special Interest Group Executive Committees can nominate. 

Meritorious Service Award – for outstanding service to the Association, its Divisions, Branches or Special Interest Groups. Divisional or Special Interest Group Committees can nominate. 

Emerging Leader - an award that recognises a high achieving individual, who is within 8 years of completion of university and currently working in the veterinary profession. Nominations may be submitted by the Divisional and Special Interest Group Executive Committees.  

The Kesteven Medal – for significant and pioneering contribution to international veterinary science. Nominations may be submitted by AVA members, AVA Group Committees and members of the ANZCVS. 

Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award - Australian veterinary schools are invited to nominate one final year student for this celebrated award, with the nominees to be judged on their academic achievement and commitment to cattle medicine. 

Honorary Membership – for services to the AVA or to the veterinary profession as a whole. Divisional and Special Interest Group Executive Committees are eligible to nominate. 

The AVA Awards will be announced and presented at the AVA Gala Dinner on Thursday 15 May, to be held at the AVA Conference at the ICC Sydney.  

Nominations must be submitted by Saturday 8 March 2025 - if you have any questions about the AVA Awards, please contact  Peta Bortfield, Executive Officer Corporate Services.