Meet the Team
Nurses
DAEN AUDET
Hi Daen, you are one of our most experienced nurses. In your opinion, what is the best thing about working at Tweed Coast Vet?
Undoubtedly, the best thing is getting to meet so many wonderful furry souls. Also, being a part of an independent, caring and supportive practice that is constantly working on improving itself.
We know you have a passion for wildlife. Tell a little about what drives you?
After many years, I continue to feel privileged to care for sick, injured and orphaned flying foxes. Releasing them back to the wild after caring for them and getting to know them as individuals is incredibly rewarding.
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SASHA BERRIDGE-LATHOURAS
Hi Sasha, what’s one of your memorable career moments?
In the 2022 floods, I was asked to help look after a horse that had been trapped in the flood waters suffering from deep cuts and illnesses.
One thing lead to another and 1 horse turned into 15, a camel and a team of vets, nurses and volunteers.
This put my nursing skills to the ultimate test but we managed saved them all.
So in two lines, tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a self-professed nerd – I have an obsession with Lego, Harry Potter and puzzles!
If you had to be an animal, which animal would you choose?
I would love to be blue whale. I love the idea of just floating around in the ocean and not a care in the world. So laid back.
TAYA O'SHANNESSY
So Taya, we know you keep fresh water fish, but do you have an affinity towards any other animals? Yes, I have a very strong connection to anything canine. (You can see Tanto in this picture). But of course, I am also passionate about my hobby of freshwater exotic fish keeping.
What scares you, professionally speaking? Angry cats!
What inspired you to pursue your current career path?
My dad’s great love and dedication to all his pets, especially his dogs.
Do you have an affinity for any particular kind of animal?
Lani Hunt
What made you fall in love with veterinary nursing/medicine?
I have always wanted to work in the animal industry and initially started studying to be a wildlife keeper – I was always fascinated watching anything medical related in this job. I found a deeper connection when helping domestic animals so decided to mix the interest and passion and do veterinary nursing. Best decision ever.
What makes you love coming to work every day?
People and animals – the perfect mix. I have a huge appreciation for customer service. Connecting with people through animals is one of the biggest perks of the job.
Which breed or species have you always wanted to care for, but never had the chance?
Snakes! Whilst completing a Cert III in Captive Animals I did work placement at an animal sanctuary. It was here I got to learn and appreciate snakes, how to handle and look after them. I would love to know more about them in a veterinarian space.
REBECCA MUNRO
Which breed or species have you always wanted to care for, but never had the chance:
I would have loved to work as a shark biologist as I find sharks very fascinating or otherwise a general Marine biologist would still be amazing.
Favourite patient:
There have been quite a few patients that I hold close to my heart, but Beau is one I’ll never forget. He was a kelpie cross. Despite a tragic head trauma causing head injuries and seizures, he was always full of so much love. Beau had 2 knee surgeries, tail amputation amongst other surgeries so he has spent a lot of time with us. Of course he stole my heart.
What made you fall in love with veterinary nursing:
Growing up around animals I knew from a very young age I wanted to work in a vet clinic. I feel quite lucky that I’ve always known what kind of career I wanted to pursue and not just because I really love animals but because I want to help people’s pets maintain their health and help when they aren’t feeling well. it’s extremely rewarding to be able to help keep pets happy and healthy.