Vets
Dr Emma Packer
I grew up in central west NSW, and after graduating I returned to western NSW to work in a mixed practice in Dubbo and Coonamble. From there I spent the next 2 years locuming around Australia in almost every state before settling into an equine practice in south-east Queensland. My particular interests are equine reproduction and medicine, surgery and orthopedics. In my spare time I enjoy surfing, running and travelling. I mostly work out of the Urunga clinic and really enjoy working with the enthusiastic and professional team.
Dr Ceridwen Burnet
As a child I grew up on a dairy farm in the Bellinger Valley attending both the Bellingen Primary School and the Bellingen High School. I went on to study Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney. Upon graduating in 1976 I have lived in the Bellinger Valley and worked in the veterinary profession both on a full time and permanent part-time basis. My work, at varying times, has covered an area from Macksville to Woolgoolga and extending inland to include the Dorrigo Plateau.
For the past 22 years I have worked at the Urunga Veterinary Clinic affording me the wonderful opportunity to meet and share experiences with so many interesting and diverse people – to share in their pleasure and hopefully comfort them in times of sadness. Working with animals has always been my joy and passion – treat them with kindness and compassion and their love and companionship is unconditional.
Dr Karen Wilmer
I graduated from Murdoch University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, then soon after furthered my qualifications with a Certificate in Veterinary Acupuncture.
My career has taken me from Darwin to the UK then back to Australia working in Victoria and NSW. Settling in the Mid North Coast in 2006 to raise a family I joined the Mid Coast Vets team in 2012. My Veterinary work over the years has focused mainly around medicine and surgery for dogs, cats and anything smaller, with Veterinary Acupuncture, Physiotherapy, Reiki and Chinese Herbs being fantastic adjuncts to western medicines. I have a strong interest in resolving skin diseases, maintaining good pet dental care and providing education and support for clients. I take pride in being able to offer a high standard of patient and client care.
In my free time I will be found chasing children and enjoying the outdoors.
Dr Toby Phelps
I grew up on a farm in a place called Rowena in north western NSW and this is where my love for animals started. Although my mum was a vet, I didn’t follow the same career path until later in life. After finishing my first degree I found myself managing a feedlot in Coonamble for 7 years. It was at this point in time I realised that in fact I did want to become a vet so back to university I went.
My family and I decided to move to the mid north coast as we love the area, the climate, and are now a little closer to family. I really enjoy the satisfaction that comes with fixing animals, and have a particular interest in both large animals and surgery. You will find me working out of any of our three clinics.
Nurses
Debbie
Newcastle born and bred my family moved to Bellingen in my senior school years. I have held a strong love and compassion for animals from a young age resulting in my Vet Nursing qualification in 1994. I commenced work at the Urunga Clinic in 1993 and have had the privilege of working alongside some wonderful vets and forming bonds with Urunga’s friendly clientele and their pets. I enjoy a quick chat and a laugh with them and the chance to help them and their pets. I like to keep up to speed with the latest advancements and have expanded my knowledge by completing various continuing educational programs and recently upgrading my nursing qualification to a Certificate IV level. I find my career rewarding and challenging, with the bonus of variety and endless learning opportunities. In my spare time I enjoy time with my two children, family and friends. I like being creative in my garden, fishing, cheering on the local soccer teams and collecting gem stones.
Lauren
I graduated with a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2012. I’m always keen to expand my knowledge by completing online courses to keep up to date. I commenced work at the Urunga clinic in November 2017 and am enjoying it thoroughly. I’m a lucky person to say that I love going to work each day! I live in Sawtell with my partner and my English Springer Spaniel puppy, Willow. On my days off I can be found at dog training/agility with Willow, at the beach with her, out on the water kayaking, at the gym or playing tennis.
Tegan
I am a small town country girl that grew up in Casino sharing the love of horses with my uncles. Thoroughbreds and horse racing were always a part of my growing up and family life. Following my passion for animals I began my studies in Lismore before completing them at Coffs Harbour. My family and I (partner & 3 kids) now call Macksville “home”. We live in this beautiful area on a family operated Angus Beef farm. I have a special interest in farm animals but equally enjoy providing care for all species. I enjoy meeting new people, furthering my knowledge with animals and the daily challenges of nursing. I love that no two days are the same. My hobbies (when I get the time) include hanging by the water, holidaying, strolling the markets, cooking and wining and dining with friends and family.