‘Outstanding individuals’ recognised at the ninth Northern Ireland Vet Community Awards
Ninth annual Northern Ireland Vet Community Awards, organised by Agria
The first week in April saw the ninth annual Northern Ireland Vet Community Awards, organised by Agria and supported by the Britsih Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Association of Veterinary Surgeons Practising in Northern Ireland (AVSPNI), take place in Belfast.
Recognising the individuals who, every day, make the biggest difference to animals, their owners and those they work with, the awards – this year hosted by weather presenter, Bara Best – have become an annual highlight of the veterinary calendar in Northern Ireland.
Melanie Spahn, President of AVSPNI, said, “The Northern Ireland Vet Communtiy Awards are such an important part of the year. We are astounded at the volume of incredibly worthy nominations we receive across the categories and feel very priviledged to judge – although it is a very difficult process!
“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all of our wonderful nominees, finalists and winners. The impact you have on animals is immense, and we cannot thank you enough.”
Winner of the coveted Vet Nurse of the Year Award was Shelbie Thompson from Foyleview Veterinary Clinic in Londonderry.
Shebie was selected as the winner in this hotly contested category for her exceptional contributions to the field, her profound impact on animal welfare, and her ability to foster a supportive environment for both animals and their human companions.
Recognising newly qualified vets, Young Vet of the Year category was again flooded with nominations.
Timmy Davidson from Riada Vets in Ballymoney was chosen as the judges’ favourite, who commented; “He does seem to be the practice super star, cleaning kennels, answering phones, supporting all call outs and always following up with owners. Everyone seems to love him.”
Animal Nursing Assistant of the Year was won by Jack Carne from Garden Lodge Vets in Belfast. Judges commented that as well as helping our right acoss the practice, Jack is the practice support – always there to calm nervous patients and adored by owners.
Winning Student Vet of the Year was Jazmine Davidson from Rathgael Vets in Bangor; described as an inspiration to the practice, an example of how hard work, passion and a postitive attitide can lead to success.
Taking the award for Clinical Coach of the Year was Georgia Gow, also from Rathgael Vets. As well as continuing her own studies, Georgia’s coaching has enabled her student to attribute her support to achieving the highest exam results.
Receptionist of the Year went to Rachel McKeown from City Vets. Judges said, “Rachel always displays a positive attitude and provides so much more to the practice through her love of pets and exceptional customer service.”
And finally, Rescue and Rehoming Champion of the Year was awarded to Glenn Ford, from The Barn Animal Rescue. “Under Glenn’s leadership, The Barn Animal Rescue provides more than just a safe space for animals; it offers a second chance at life. Glenn’s commitment and the success of the charity are a testament to his passion for animal welfare and his exceptional leadership. He embodies the true spirit of rescue, rehoming, and rehabilitation.”
Susie Hill, Business Development Manager at Agria and organiser of the awards, says, “It’s an honour to have been running these awards for so long, and to see how much it means to all of those nominated. Across the categories the one thing that stands out is the kindness and dedication of these incredible individuals, and I am really proud that the Northern Ireland Vet Community Awards provide a to pause from day-to-day busy life to celebrate them.”
Picture captions as follows:
Clinical Coach—Bara Best, Courtney Bradshaw, Cornerstone Vets,Belfast, Jane Reilly on behalf of Georgin Gow, Stormont Vets, Emily Booth Glenno Vets, Larne
Rescue rehoming Champion -Susie Hill, Glenn Fornd, the Barn Animal Rescue, Lynsey Jones NI Cat Rescue
Student Veterinary nurse -Susie Hill, Tiffany Murray Banbridge Pets Vets, Jasmine Daividson, Rathgael Vets Bangor, Sain Fletcher, Cromlyn house Vets, Hillsborough, Bara Best
Receptionist – Susie Hill Rachel Mckeown, City Vets Shore Road, Bara Best
Young Vet -Susie Hill, Kirsty Morrison Garden Lodge Bangor, Timmy Davidson Riada \vets Ballymoney, Bara Best, Caleb Cafolla, Firmount Vets Antrim Fiona McFarlane ,Young Vet Network
Vet Nurse of the Year – Susie Hill, Rebecca Gourley, Firmount Vets, Antrim, Shelbie Thompson Folyeview Vets New Building, Derry ,Bara Best
