AVSPNI Spring Conference – CPD in the City: A Great Success

The veterinary fraternity and trade were out in force for the AVSPNI Spring Conference at the Europa Hotel from 17-18th April.

The truly inclusive event for both vets and vet nurses was packed with top speakers throughout the two days – and a fantastic trade exhibition.

Speakers included Jon Hall, Joe Higgins, Ian Self, Corinne Flynn, Thomas Mignan, Greg Dunlog, Lauren Hargrave, Carly Blann, Jill Macdonald and Julie Dugmore hearing fantastic presentation on common surgeries (for vets); and neurology nursing and neuro-surgery for vet nurses.

For both vets and vet nurses there was Team-Based Veterinary Care – Implementing Schedule 3 in a Busy Practice.

The event included a Gala Dinner and NI Veterinary Community Awards – with dancing by The Merchants.

Agria Pet Insurance were proud to honour some of the very best at the 10th Northern Ireland Agria Vet Community Awards, in partnership with the AVSPNI.

Held in Belfast every year, this event brings together veterinary professionals who go above and beyond every single day, making a real difference to the lives of pets and their owners across Northern Ireland.

These awards continue to be one of the most anticipated events in the NI veterinary calendar, and it’s easy to see why.

A huge congratulations to this year’s winners:

🐾 Young Vet of the Year – Caitie Mann (Newry Veterinary Centre)

🐾 Animal Nursing Assistant of the Year – Ebony Alexander (Ace Veterinary Clinic)

🐾 Vet Nurse of the Year – Guoda Fedorenko (Cromlyn House Veterinary Clinic)

🐾 Receptionist of the Year – Karen Banks (Abbey Veterinary Clinic)

🐾 Clinical Mentor of the Year – Louise Taylor (CAFRE)

🐾 Student Vet Nurse of the Year – Susan Houston (Gleno Veterinary Centre)

The evening was brilliantly hosted by celebrity weatherman Barra Best, with awards presented by leading voices in the profession including Sarah Holliday (BVNA President) and Keith Sheridan (AVSPNI President).

Huge thanks to Dr Olivia Clark BVMS MRCVS PgC (SAM), Agria’s Business Development Manager, for taking over the reins from Susie Hill, and making the 2026 event yet another fantastic event that reflects the passion, dedication, and compassion that define the veterinary community across Northern Ireland.

To all finalists, nominees, and winners: thank you for the extraordinary care you provide to animals and their people. You are the heart of this profession.

See full report and picture pages in the Summer edition of NI Veterinary Today – coming soon!