Silkstone-Booval

Dr Kelsie O’ Leary

Veterinarian

Kelsie graduated from a Bachelor of Science (Honours) at UQ St Lucia in 2016, and a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) at UQ Gatton in 2021.

Kelsie grew up in Bundaberg and always knew she wanted to work with animals. After high school she moved to Brisbane to study zoology and was lucky enough to conduct a research project on sea turtles at Mon Repos. After graduating, she decided to peruse Veterinary Medicine and has never looked back.

Kelsie was voted ‘crazy cat lady’ by her cohort at vet school — a title she wears with pride. Other than felines, she has an interest in wildlife and zoo medicine, as well as behaviour medicine.

In her free time, Kelsie likes to play netball, hang out with friends, and relax at home with her cat, Lilo.

Jodie Wilson

Practice Manager

Jody has always had a passion for pets large and small and has always dreamt of pursuing a career caring for pets. Jody became part of the Greencross Vets Silkstone team as a intern in 2016 and after finishing her internship within 5 months, became a permanent member of our team.

Jody was selected to undertake a Scholarship in Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing with Greencross due to displayed excellence as an Intern, following this she went on to complete her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2020 and was offered the position to be interim Practice Manager for 6 months in 2021. She thoroughly enjoyed the leadership skills learnt with the running of a Veterinary Clinic and has gained a lot by having this opportunity. Following this opportunity, Jody pursued her career as Nurse Manager with a special interest in surgery and anesthesia, as well as looking after your pets during their hospital stays to make sure they are provided with the best possible care.

“I love the medical side and I have gained so much knowledge and experience in the many years of being a part of the team at Greencross Vets Silkstone-Booval”.

Jody has recently now taken on the position in the clinic as Multi Site Practice Manager working across both Silkstone and Ipswich sites and loves working for Greencross as they are a great company that provides outstanding patient and client care and delivers love and empathy to all pet parents.

Outside of work, Jody thoroughly enjoys spending time with her children and being a busy mum to three dogs, and two horses. Her personal interests include fitness, and horse riding.

Dr Anthony Snell

Veterinary Director

Dr Tony graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (1st Class Honours) from the University of Queensland (St Lucia) in 1986. He worked in mixed practice for 5 years in St. George (Queensland) then travelled and worked overseas for 18 months before taking a position at the Silkstone Veterinary Hospital (now Greencross Vets Silkstone).

Tony is a member of the Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association (ASAVA) and the Australian Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), and his goal is to provide compassionate veterinary care for all his patients following the Greencross core values and standards.

Tony is married to Cherie, and they have 2 children – Benjamin and Laura. The Snell family has a variety of pets including Jack (cat), Scruffy (dog), Chickens, Guinea Fowl, Quail, Murray Grey and Boran Cattle.

Dr Neshika Rajakaruna

Veterinarian

I have always been passionate about pets since I was very young. Growing up I had quite a few cats, dogs and fish. I loved looking after them and spending time with all them. This led me to pursue a career in the Veterinary industry.

I am originally from Sri Lanka and moved to Australia in Grade 4. I attended Kenmore State High School and then went on to James Cook University in Townsville, to pursue a Veterinary Science Degree. During the degree I developed a keen interest in birds and pocket pets. I graduated in 2017 and came back to Kenmore to start my professional career.

I currently have a lovely little Tortoiseshell cat named Sasha and a variety of fish.

Dr Vanessa Chua

Veterinarian

Vanessa graduated from the University of Queensland in 2023 and started working at a small animal practice in the Gold Coast. Some of her interests in small animal medicine include dermatology, dentistry, ophthalmology and surgery.

In Vanessa’s free time, you will find her being active and in nature. She is a regular at her local climbing gym and spends a lot of time outdoors climbing rocks. If she’s not doing any of those you can find her hanging out with her cat, Tiger, stretching out at yoga or tending to her myriad of plants and fish life.

Dr Rowena Spreckley

Veterinarian

Rowena grew up in a small village in Northern NSW close to the bush, beach and mountain ranges. From a young age the natural world including animals were a big part of her life, and so of course becoming a veterinarian was an aspiration of hers.

Rowena was able to accomplish this after moving to QLD and studying at UQ Gatton. Rowena thoroughly enjoys all aspects of being a small animal veterinarian, however her passion lies with internal medicine, especially gastrointestinal medicine, endocrinology and infectious diseases.

You will find Rowena in her spare time bushwalking, bird watching, cooking, gardening and spending time with Louie her much loved Kelpie cross.

Dr Victoria Tsang

Veterinarian

Dr Victoria graduated from a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Hons) at UQ Gatton in 2023.

She grew up in Hong Kong, a concrete jungle. Since childhood, her dream job has always been a veterinarian. Victoria came to Australia in 2019 to pursue a Veterinary Science degree after graduating from high school in the UK. Her passion and love is all aspects of veterinary work with an interest in both surgery and medicine.

Often in Victoria’s free time you will find her enjoying badminton, baking, hanging out with friends, and spending time with her two guinea pigs, Mochi and Peanut.

Nakita

Veterinary Nurse

Nakita first started her career as intern, undertaking placement at Greencross Vets Silkstone-Booval in 2019 and then gaining employment in 2020 through her hard work, commitment and dedication to her career, patients, clients and team.

From a young age she has always loved animals big and small. She always had a family pet whether it was a cat or dog sometimes even fish. Nakita hasn’t looked back since joining the team and couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

After a long day at work, Nakita loves going home to her rescue dog Gallager and turtle Squirtle.

Ophelia

Veterinary Nurse

Ophelia has had a love for animals since she was young, being surrounded by different animals growing up she developed a passion for taking care of those who can’t speak for themselves. She now has 2 turtles, 2 budgies & 2 dogs that she spends her time with.

Ophelia began her studies 2 years ago starting her Certificate III in Animals Studies and is now on track to graduate and be a fully qualified Vet Nurse by October 2024 gaining her Certificate IV of Veterinary Nursing. Every part of vet med takes her interest and is hoping to develop her knowledge in all areas.

Ophelia spends her spare time roller skating, baking, enjoying music, reading and spending time at the beach.

Julia

Veterinary Nurse

Alex

Veterinary Nurse

Alex has been a member of the Greencross Vets family since 2019 and has recently joined the Greencross Silkstone-Booval and Ipswich teams. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, majoring in Veterinary Technology, which equipped her with the skills to work in her dream job caring for animals.

Alex has a special interest in surgical nursing, anaesthesia, and furry cuddles.

Outside of work, she and her family love spending time in the garden with their dog, Nala, two cats, Lavender and Lelith, and four cheeky chickens: Princess Layer, Princess Birdie, Atilla, and Cleo.

Christina

Veterinary NurseChristina always loved animals growing up. After high school she pursued her passion for animals studying a Bachelor of Applied Science Majoring in Wildlife Science. In the past Christina has spent time volunteering with local wildlife organisations, wildlife caring and the Koala hospital.
Christina pursued her dream of becoming a veterinary nurse in 2021 where she completed a Certificate III in Animal Studies and gaining employment with Greencross Silkstone Booval.
Since being a part of the Silkstone Booval team, Christina has completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing where she has gained a keen interest in anesthesia and pharmacology. Christina loves being part of the Silkstone Booval team providing quality care for all patients and clients. At home, Christina enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband as they raise their 3 boys on their beef cattle farm in the Somerset Region

Courtney

Veterinary Nurse

Courtney has always had a special place in her heart for animals and knew from a young age she wanted to work with them. After graduating from high school she spent some time working at a Greyhound rescue and volunteering with animal shelters before deciding to start her studies to become a vet nurse in 2021. In 2022, she finished her cert IV and has loved taking care of your pets ever since. She enjoys all aspects of nursing and finds it hard to pick just one as her favorite.

At home she has 3 fur babies of her own: Fig and Gus the cats, and Snuffles the Greyhound. In her spare time you’ll find her at the beach with her dog, going to the gym or going on the occasional horse trial ride

Trinity

Veterinary Nurse

Growing up with animals big and small, Trinity has always had a passion for agriculture and animal care. From showcasing cattle at local shows to horse riding and playing hockey, she thrives in the great outdoors!

Trinity decided to take her love for animals to the next level by pursuing her Certificate II in Animal Studies and embarking on the exciting journey to make a positive impact in the world of animal welfare!

Leah

Veterinary Nurse

Leah joined our team in 2021 after completing her Certificate II in Animal Studies. Animals have forever been a strong passion in her life and she dedicates her heart and soul to her job. Before joining our team, Leah worked in pet stores for over 10 years. This gave her broad knowledge of small animals and their behaviour, nutrition and needs. Within clinic, Leah shows dedication in all areas, but strives in customer service and taking care of hospital patients.

Leah has her hands full at home with two young daughters Lilly and Anna and a fur baby of her own, Waffle the Spoodle. Leah spends most of her time outdoors with her family and pets, enjoying nature and being grateful for our beautiful country.

Leah will always go above and beyond to make sure your pet has a stress free time in clinic.

Abbey

Veterinary Nurse

Abbey grew up on Tamborine mountain in the Gold Coast hinterland where she developed her passion for animals and nature. From a young age Abbey knew she wanted to become a Veterinarian and is working towards making her dream come true as she is set to graduate with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the end of 2025.

Abbey really enjoys nursing at Greencross as she is able to build fundamental skills within this field.

Abbey has two dogs named Socksy and Shoey and a cat called Luna. In her spare time Abbey enjoys camping, hiking and reading.

Dr. Renee Huggard

Veterinarian

Renee graduated from Charles Sturt University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Veterinary Science. She has completed a rotating and a few surgical internships at various large specialist hospitals in NSW and QLD and attained her ANZCVS surgical memberships in 2021. Renee’s has publications in VCOT Jan 2022 and soon to be in Veterinary Surgery, of which has been presented at VOS in February in Colorado, USA 22′ and accepted for presentation at the ACVS surgery Summit Lousiville, KY 23′. Renee loves all aspects of surgery, particularly neurosurgery.

Outside of work Renee loves hiking, horse riding, being at the beach, and bodybuilding

Amber

Veterinary Nurse

Amber comes from a well experienced background of all thing’s pets. In 2021 Amber decided to join our Greencross veterinary nurse internship program whilst working fulltime in pet retail at our Colo Pet barn store next door. Not long after Amber was offered a fulltime position. Amber brings a wealth of knowledge of nutrition and prevention to the team from her retail experience as well as outstanding customer service. Amber owns two pets of her own Wally and Willow.
In her free time, you will find her at the beach and going on walks to spend time with her animals.
Amber has now found a new love for creating a rapport and relationships with our clients and is now our main receptionist.

Dr Helen Bailes

Dr Helen has been with Greencross Vets since 2017. She enjoys all aspects of veterinary work and has a special interest in further developing her skills in feline medicine and pathology. Helen has an adopted cat Mac, and a special place in her heart for Burmese cats in particular, having cared for them over the years. Outside of the clinic, Helen loves going for bushwalks, playing piano, and spending time with her friends and large extended family.

Lisa

Veterinary Nurse

Ever since Lisa was a little girl she loved animals of all types. Growing up she was always pet parent. Currently, she cares for a dog named Bailey, a cat named Evie, a snake named Jupiter and a chicken. Lisa is always looking for ways to expand her knowledge of animals whether it is furthering her study, volunteering at zoos and sanctuaries or watching documentaries.
She brings with her international experience having interned overseas at Big Cat Rescue in Tampa Florida USA. While there she looked after bobcats, servals, caracals and cougars, along with lions, tigers, leopards and Jaguars.
Being a vet nurse is highly rewarding for Lisa.

Kamilla

Veterinary Nurse

Before I could even walk I’ve always had a huge passion and interest in animals and knew I wanted to have a career in the animal industry.

I started my journey as a Greencross intern in 2019. I was then offered employment and completed my Certificate 2 in Veterinary Nursing. I’ve worked for Greencross Vets ever since and have loved every second of it. From the handfuls of bouncy puppies to the gentle, kind old seniors.

I’ve recently completed my Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing to gain more knowledge and experience and develop more skills for the job I love so much.

I have two beautiful German Shepherd mixes (Kaiser and Duke), an Appaloosa gelding named Elvis, and my small hobby chicken farm.

TJ

Veterinary Nurse

Chelsea

Nurse Manager

Chelsea was still at school when she started working with Greencross as a volunteer for work experience. She loved working here with the staff and the animals so once she graduated high school in 2016, she completed her Certificate II in Animal Studies. Following that, she also completed her Certificate IV in Vet Nursing.

Chelsea has been in the Greencross Vets family for over five years as a locum nurse before joining Silkstone-Booval as Nurse Manager. She has always been very passionate about animals from a very young age and enjoys working with every animal big or small. Chelsea enjoys working in the theatre and will always put your patient first.

As our clinic’s Nurse Manager, Chelsea enjoys supporting the team and mentoring new staff.

At home, Chelsea has a cat named Delilah, a giant dog Olympus and two horses named Abbie and Austin, she recently bought acreage so there are many more animals to come.

Briley

Veterinary Nurse

Briley is a veterinary nurse at Greencross Silkstone who first started out as a school based trainee in 2015. She has worked with us for most of this time between 2015 and now. Briley owns 2 pets of her own a dog, Nahla and a horse, Catalina who she adores greatly, having pets her whole life is what encourages her every day passion of being a veterinary nurse.

Briley has a keen interest in behaviour and early stage behavioural developments, providing and guiding the pawfect parents to start there adventure with their new editions.

She strives to treat all our patients like they are her own and you will often find her going the extra mile for a patient. This may be anything from after the procedure brushing her patients to make them look extra pretty before going home, cuddling them as they wake up or giving them that extra bit of love while they are in a different environment to what they know every other day.

You will find Briley smiling on the other end of the phone when you ring so if you need advice or to see us give us a call and be sure to share some photos below of your pawfect pooches and kitties!