Customer Care Representative Team
Veterinary Nursing Team
Veterinary Surgeon Team
Leadership Team
Practice Manager
Qualifications: Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Certificate III in Business Administration
Jamee started in the Veterinary industry after she decided to fulfill a lifelong dream “working with animals”. Jamee joined the High Street Family as a trainee nurse in 2014. While working, juggling family life and raising her son, she completed her studies and became a fully qualified veterinary nurse by 2018.
Her love of animals started as a young girl growing up in the region always bringing home all types of injured and stray animals. Jamee has always felt the need to love and care for all animal types volunteering her time at Rockhampton Zoo, Quoin Island Rehabilitation Centre and even travelling to a Veterinary Clinic in the Cook Islands.
“I love being a Veterinary Nurse because no two days are the same. Every day you face a different challenge, a different tongue lick and a waggy tail.”
Interest/Hobbies: Jamee has a fascination with oral hygiene and dental care and loves to channel her knowledge on to our clients. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time on her parent’s farm with her family.
Pets: Jamee has two dogs name Maxx a Bull Arab and Moo Moo a Staffy, a fresh water Turtle named Myrtle, a feline named Alice and two four-legged beasts named Ella and phoenix
Clinical Director/Senior Veterinarian Surgeon
Qualifications: Bachelor of Veterinary Science Hons (BVSc).
Kirsty spent most of her childhood in South Africa. In 2007 her family decided to migrate to Australia, where they lived in parts of NSW and QLD. Due to her love of interacting with animals and supporting the human-animal bond, Kirsty started her biggest adventure, pursuing a Veterinary career. In 2014, Kirsty graduated from the University of Queensland with Honours in a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. After spending time in western NSW working in a mixed animal practice, Kirsty joined the High Street family in December 2017 as a veterinarian.
Kirsty is a great addition to High Street where she is valued for her caring nature, problem-solving skills, passion, commitment, and sharp mind. In 2020, Kirsty and her husband welcomed a gorgeous little boy into the family. Kirsty took some time off work to care for her son and then returned to work as a part-time veterinarian.
“I love being a Veterinary Surgeon because I can help to improve a pet’s quality of life and have a significant impact on their overall health. No one day is the same as another and you can never predict what will walk through the door. I love chatting with the owners and hearing of their pets’ antics. The veterinary industry is constantly changing and evolving as science progresses and I love to be constantly challenged, continuing to learn and grow as a veterinarian and expand my skill set.”
Interest/Hobbies: On her days off Kirsty is busy caring for her little human and spending time with her husband. Kirsty also enjoys horse-riding, camping and when the opportunities arise, setting off with her family exploring Australia.
Pets: Kirsty also has a fluffy, cheeky Jack Russell called Jaffa, who was their first fur baby who is a very much loved family member.
Meet Dr. Kirsty DowningPractice Owner
Qualifications: Bachelor of Veterinary Science Hons (BVSc)
Dr. Jocelyn grew up in Cawarral where she rode ponies to school and developed a great love for animals. She commenced her Veterinary career in the 1980s working for Lester Torenbeek before moving out of town to live and work on a cattle station. Jocelyn enjoyed being busy with cattle and horses, raising her two daughters and taking on numerous roles within the beef industry.
Jocelyn returned to Rockhampton and the Veterinary profession in 1996, working as a Locum and part-time vet at many central Queensland vet clinics. She spent a year working for a Melbourne company doing IVF work in cattle in Queensland and Victoria. Since raising and educating her daughters, Jocelyn has focused on her veterinary career, taking ownership of High Street Veterinary Surgery in July 2012. In 2014 High Street Veterinary Surgery was awarded the Best in Business in Central Queensland. Every day Jocelyn proves that local women can do very well in this great part of Queensland and no dream is too big or too small.
“I love being a Veterinary Surgeon because it is totally captivating. There is so much that you can do, from preventative work through to diagnosing, medical workup, treatment, surgery and rehabilitation. The meeting, developing trust and developing friendships with the people who come to us for help is very humbling.”
Interest/Hobbies: Jocelyn has a particular interest in developing new pathways and flexibility in clinics, for mothers returning to the workforce. To this end, Jocelyn founded a new business, ‘Smooth Operating Vets’. She also enjoys being out on the water with a nice glass of wine and her partner, watching the whales frolic around their boat.
Pets: Jocelyn owns a beautiful Border Collie named Billie-Jean, a Labrador-retrieve, Lucy Lulu and Ben the cat.
Meet Dr. Jocelyn Birch BakerVeterinary Surgeon
Qualifications: Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) & Bachelor of Science {BSc (Vet)}
Virginia grew up in Sydney and spent most of her childhood in the horse paddock at the end of her street and looking at things in the garden. She commenced a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at The University of Sydney in 1990. After finishing her third year, the possibility of a research career interested her. To test this out (and take a break from relentless exams), she spent a year away from veterinary science and completed a Bachelor of Science (Vet). This involved a collaborative research project into Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (otherwise known as SIDS or cot death) between the Veterinary Physiology Department and the Neonatal Department at King George V Hospital for Mothers and Babies. This valuable year (involving many hours of observing sleeping piglets) gave her a permanent appreciation of how veterinary science can inform and progress human medicine.
Upon graduating from Veterinary Science in 1995, Virginia worked in metropolitan Sydney for several years before relocating to rural northwest NSW with her husband and two small boys. As their family grew, she decided to take an extended break from veterinary work to raise their five children before returning to a part-time job at a mixed rural veterinary practice concentrating on small animal medicine and surgery. In 2015 her family drove across the Nullabor to start a new chapter of life in regional coastal Western Australia. She spent six years working in a small animal practice that also maintained a dedicated focus on birds and wildlife. She was privileged to spend the last three months in WA working as a locum in a bustling small animal emergency clinic before joining the High Street family in February 2021.
“I love being a veterinary surgeon because it brings together many things that I deeply value. Most importantly, being a vet allows me to do my best to alleviate suffering for pets and owners alike on a daily basis. What this looks like in practice is highly varied, which is another wonderful aspect of veterinary life. The scientist in me also loves to be challenged by the truth that no matter how complex or puzzling an illness is, the answer is right there in front of me, held entirely within that little furry (or feathered, or scaled) patient – and all I have to do is figure it out!”
Interest/Hobbies: A great day off for Virginia would involve spending time with her husband, dreaming about home improvements, and buying just one more exciting plant. Away from work, she enjoys bike riding and long-distant running, being part of the music team at her local church, and being involved in kids’ community sport, particularly cricket.
Pets: Traversing Australia twice has sadly meant saying goodbye to various sheep, goats, koi, axolotls, yabbies, and aquarium fish. However, Virginia’s family’s constant travelling companions include, Dug the labrador and Stanley the beagle, who love life in Rockhampton and can’t believe their luck in coming to another beautiful part of Australia.
Qualified Veterinary Nurse
Qualifications: Certificate in Veterinary Nursing IV
Kate is one of our most well-known faces at HSVS, having been with the clinic since 2014. Her veterinary nurse skills span over a period of 14 years, having started her nursing role in 2006.
Kate started her Vet Nursing career in the UK in 2006 in small animal practice. She then spent some time night nursing post-surgical patients at an orthopaedic clinic, followed by a number of years doing nights and weekends at an emergency clinic in Greater London. Kate returned to Australia in 2014 where she joined the HSVS team.
In a world that is forever evolving within the animal veterinary science world, new medical research and techniques are being discovered Kate loves working alongside the vets whilst they do their medical detective work.
“I love being a Veterinary Nurse because it is a very gratifying job, especially when they go home, bright and happy after coming into the clinic being very unwell.”
Interest/Hobbies: Kate thrives on learning new things whilst the vets put pieces together to solve and treat ambiguous cases. When she’s not at work, Kate enjoys spending her down time reading and studying.
Pets: Kate loves to spend quality time her cats Prim and Loco.
Qualified Veterinary Nurse
Qualifications: Cert IV Veterinary Nurse, BSc (Wildlife)
Renee’s love of animals has led her down a career path filled with travel, adventure, and plenty of studies! After completing her Certificate II in Animal Studies at Rockhampton Zoo, Renee went on to study her Bachelor of Applied Science major in Wildlife Science at the University of Queensland. After finishing university, she moved to Hamilton Island to assist with running their local wildlife park.
After completing her work on the island, Renee moved back to the mainland, appointed Head Mammal Keeper at the Billabong Wildlife Sanctuary in Nome. She predominantly cared for koalas, wallabies, bilbies and wombats, but sadly, her time there was tragically cut short when she was attacked by a crocodile and almost lost her arm.
Determined to pursue her career working with animals, Renee embarked on a further course of study to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinary nurse. She moved to South Australia and worked at a veterinary clinic in the Adelaide Hills while completing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing.
Renee then returned to QLD and worked as a Zookeeper at Magnetic Island Wildlife Park until COVID hit, and the island was subsequently closed down. She moved back home to Rockhampton and resumed nursing at a local vet clinic before successfully applying to High Street Vet Surgery in February 2021.
“I love being a Veterinary Nurse because I love caring for animals. Even though I’ve worked with wildlife for a long time, I always wanted to be a vet nurse.”
Renee is a hard-working, proactive and well-respected team member. She is an excellent listener and enjoys helping people with their pets. We are delighted to have her on our team.
Interests/Hobbies: Renee volunteers as a foster carer, and in her spare time, she enjoys going to the gym and playing sport.
Pets: Renee is Mum to Jack, a 3-year-old rescued German Shepherd dog, and a Bearded Dragon called Peri Peri.
Student Veterinary Nurse
Qualifications: Currently studying Cert III Veterinary Nursing.
Bre is a local girl. She grew up on a rural property near Rockhampton, helping her dad round up cattle for branding and learning about large animal care. She always knew that she wanted to work with animals as they bring her so much joy.
Bre believes that it is our job to repay the love that animals give us by caring for them, so in 2021 while still in school, Bre joined the HSVS team as a kennel hand. With lots of support from our management team, Bre was then able to commence her studies and is on her way to fulfilling her dream of becoming a veterinary nurse.
Bre is a naturally social person, and she enjoys conversing and communicating with people. She was involved in her family business from a young age and quickly became proficient at answering the phones and assisting clients. These skills have helped to make her an excellent puppy school trainer!
“I love being a vet nurse because no two days are ever the same, there is always an unusual case to learn about. The best part is seeing our patients recover and go home with their families, tails wagging and happy! Being able to reassure our clients that their pet will be ok makes it all worthwhile.”
Interests/Hobbies: Bre has been racing cars at the speedway since she was 14 years old. In her spare time, she loves to travel and compete in National and State speedway titles around the country.
Pets: Bre has two dogs Nova and Chevy, both American Staffy Xs. They love getting into strife, so Bre is glad she works at a vet clinic!
Veterinary Nurse
Qualifications: Cert III Veterinary Nurse
Born in New Zealand, Grace moved to Yeppoon in QLD with her family when she was still a child, and then to Rockhampton in 2020. Grace always wanted to help animals from a very young age, and that didn’t change as she got older. After leaving school, she worked in hospitality and eventually became a functions manager at a restaurant, where she stayed for the next five years.
Grace met Dr Jocelyn one day when she came in to arrange a business function at the restaurant. They built a rapport as they continued to work together, and Dr Jocelyn was impressed with Grace’s energy and enthusiasm. Grace still really wanted to work with animals, so she found the courage to mention that she was interested in doing work experience at a veterinary clinic one day. Dr Jocelyn offered her a position, and Grace joined the HSVS team in late 2020.
Grace’s bubbly personality and her hospitality experience have helped develop her exceptional communication and social skills. She genuinely enjoys helping people and is always willing to lend a sympathetic ear to anyone who needs a chat.
“I love being a vet nurse because you get to help animals who can’t speak for themselves. The positive cases make you happy, and it’s so rewarding to help families through their pet’s recovery.”
Interests/Hobbies: Grace loves to play netball, go roller skating, walk on the beach, and listen to music.
Pets: Mrs. Baggins was a stray cat when Grace adopted her and brought her home. Grace originally thought she was a boy, until she took her to the vet for desexing and found out she was a girl. Grace changed her cat’s name from “Mr.” to “Mrs.” and they have been living happily together for the past 5 years.
Head Senior Qualified Veterinary Nurse
Qualifications: Cert IV Veterinary Nurse; Diploma in Business
Brittany has been a qualified veterinary nurse for five years. She grew up in Darwin and always had a strong interest in animals. In particular, she loves seeing the special bond between animals and their humans.
After completing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Brittany undertook a Diploma in Business to help further her career prospects. In 2021, Brittany and her partner moved to Rockhampton, and we were lucky enough to have her join our team at High Street Vet Surgery.
In addition to nursing, Brittany puts her business studies and time management skills to good use by organising and scheduling the day-to-day workflow in the hospital. Her ability to remain cool and calm in an emergency means that she can respond quickly to unforeseen events and make the necessary adjustments to the schedule. Her natural leadership skills help to reduce the stress on other team members and keep everyone on track.
“I love being a vet nurse because you get to know the animals and watch their interactions with their families. It is a fun and rewarding workplace with something new to learn daily. The stories clients share about their pets are always interesting and heart-warming.”
Interests/Hobbies: In her spare time, Brittany enjoys working with her three horses, Stormy, Blue and Lacey. She participates in rodeos and plays polo-crosse from time to time.
Pets: Besides her horses, Brittany has three dogs — a Dachshund named Peppa, a Bully Grey named Millie, and a Mareema called Larry. She also has a feisty cat who is appropriately named Savage!
Head Senior Qualified Veterinary Technician
Qualifications: Bachelor in Applied Science, with a major in Veterinary Technology.
Mikayla grew up in Yeppoon & after finishing secondary school, she enrolled in the University at UQ Gatton Campus. She graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor in Applied Science, with a major in Veterinary Technology.
Mikayla first came to High Street Vet Surgery as a student whilst doing her veterinary nursing placement. After graduating, she joined the High Street Vet Surgery family. Mikayla always knew she wanted to have a career working with animals.
Over the past few years, Mikayla has shown her dedication & commitment to our clients & their pets, which promoted her to a full-time position, taking on more responsibilities within the surgery.
Mikayla’s attention to detail, efficiency & enthusiastic attitude makes her one of our strongest assets at High Street Vet Surgery.
“I love being a Veterinary Nurse because I get to work with animals as they can’t help themselves and being an advocate for their health & well-being is my ultimate goal.”
Interest/Hobbies: Mikayla has a particular interest in Marine Studies and hopes to one day fulfill a dream of working in the industry while exploring and traveling around Australia. In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors, playing women’s rugby & spending time with her partner.
Pets: Mikayla has a gorgeous Border Collie called Pippa.
Customer Care Representative
Leah grew up in Marlborough QLD and then moved to Rockhampton after finishing school. Growing up in a rural area, Leah has always been very comfortable around animals. She assisted with the care of cattle and horses and was also involved in the local racing industry.
In December 2022, Leah was working in the family business when she heard about an open Customer Care position at HSVS. The family business was undergoing a restructure, so the timing was perfect for her to make the switch.
Leah’s compassionate and caring nature, coupled with her strong interpersonal skills and her ability to work well under pressure were the perfect fit for our team, and she hasn’t looked back!
“I love being a Customer Care Representative because I get to make a difference in the lives of our clients and patients. Being able to build relationships with pet families and ease their stress, plus helping to relieve suffering for animals is so rewarding.”
Leah also enjoys learning about animal care, diseases and treatments. There are different cases walking through the door every day, so it keeps her job varied and interesting.
Interests/Hobbies: In her spare time Leah enjoys spending time with her children and creating stunning artwork through her painting and drawing. A woman of many talents, Leah is also a qualified Yoga instructor.She is passionate about wildlife and conservation and would like to see more government funding for native animal rescue.
Pets: Leah has two horses and four dogs, and her daughter also has a snake and a peach-faced love bird!