I have a strong interest in animal welfare and champion the responsible use of animals in research and teaching. I initially obtained a BSc before progressing on to a BVSc. Initially upon completion of my BVSc I obtained a position with the RSPCA in Newcastle that afforded me the skill of working with animal welfare officers regarding cruelty cases and began my long term interest in animal welfare. After a few years in practice I returned to study that culminated in obtaining my PhD in 2004. In research I have a strong interest in wildlife and also have a postgraduate diploma in conservation biology. I bring together my veterinary and biological degrees. This allowing me to have a broad knowledge within the environmental area. During my PhD I tutored veterinary anatomy of all species. Then obtained my first lecturing position at Massey University in 2001. This followed with a return to Sydney before taking a lecturing position at CSU. As the 1st appointee in Anatomy I was involved with the design and initial development of the Anatomy course at CSU. I try to captivate my students in their learning of Veterinary Anatomy by bringing relevance to their future profession. The students enjoy the anatomy classes and nearly all give high appraisal of my teaching. I enjoy my teaching anatomy and watch students learn a vital subject for their future. I believe in bringing anatomy alive with examples and use anatomical imaging to allow students to understand the relationships of organs and structures within an animals body. They can view the animal externally and visualise what is internal as this is what they will do in the future. I have previously been on the CSU ACEC for a period of over 6yrs as a Category A member then Presiding Officer. In this period I gained a knowledge of the relevant codes of conduct, legislation and guidelines as they relate to animals in research and teaching. Until recently (mid 2024) I was Associate Head of School -Veterinary Sciences within the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences with close to 60 staff under my management. Returning now to teaching and as I call it the coal face of education.