Pathology and Practice:
Empowering
Veterinarians
for Success
A Two-Day Collaborative Event on Diagnostics and Professional Mastery
This two-day event, hosted by Gribbles Veterinary Pathology and Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business in Melbourne on 22 and 23 May, will bring together the science and art of clinical practice. Through presentations and discussions led by industry experts, attendees will gain valuable insights into diagnostic techniques, laboratory collaboration, and case-based problem-solving.
The event will also focus on the essential soft skills that will guarantee personal satisfaction and professional fulfilment in clinical practice.
This is an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded colleagues, exchange knowledge, and learn from the best in their field. Whether you’re looking to refine your diagnostic approach or escape the typical daily frustrations in clinical practice, this event will equip you with the skills needed to elevate your experience and results.
A Unique Opportunity to Master the Science and Art of Veterinary Practice
By the end of this event you’ll have a personal blueprint to:
- Get more yeses from clients with your best ethical recommendations
- Seek advice from our expert pathologists and scientists – invaluable for diagnosing and treating complex or rare conditions.
- Navigate financially related conversations without fear or guilt.
- Enjoy the best relationships with your colleagues and clients alike.
- Improve your patient outcomes through the latest capabilities in laboratory diagnostics.
- Increase your clients’ trust by having access to the advanced diagnostic insights required to make more informed decisions.
- Manage your time most effectively and avoid overwhelm.
- Elevate the standard of care for your patients by fostering a collaborative environment between the laboratory and veterinarians.
Dr Mark Williamson
BVSc (Hons), MVSc (Path), MANZCVSc, PhD, Diplomate ACVP
With extensive experience in equine pathology, including government and commercial labs in Australia and the USA, Dr Williamson specialises in diagnostic solutions for equine practitioners. His presentation covers how to optimise laboratory use in equine practice, from selecting the right tests to understanding their sensitivity and specificity. He will discuss common submissions like uterine lavage, lung wash, and joint fluid samples, providing practical insights to enhance diagnostics and client service.
Dr Celia Hooper
BVSc, MS, PhD, Diplomate ACVP
With over 30 years of pathology experience across Australia and New Zealand, Dr Hooper is a registered specialist in anatomical and clinical pathology. Her expertise spans production and companion animals, with a keen interest in aquaculture pathology. Her presentation explores Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), its link to obesity and laminitis, and the role of insulin dysregulation. She will discuss its impact on equine health and practical strategies for diagnosis and management.
Dr Graeme Knowles
BSc (Vet), BVSc, MANZCVS (Pathobiology), MPhil, Dip. Public Policy, Diplomate ACV
With extensive experience in veterinary anatomic pathology, Dr Knowles specialises in gross and histopathology across domestic and non-domestic species. His presentation focuses on common diseases in peri-urban farm animals, particularly sheep, goats, and chickens. He will cover key diagnostic tests for prevalent conditions such as parasitic infections, bacterial diseases, and viral pathogens, as well as the importance of recognising clinical signs of notifiable diseases like Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease.
Dr Allan Kessell
BVSc, MS, PhD, Diplomate ACVP
Dr Kessell is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists with extensive experience in anatomical and clinical pathology. His career spans mixed practice in Australia and the Middle East, academia in Australia and the USA, and leadership roles in veterinary diagnostics. He has contributed to pathology education and laboratory development, including setting up a diagnostic lab in Hong Kong. Now semi-retired, he continues to share his expertise through locum work and pathology consulting.
Dr Jovene Lee
BSc, DVM
Dr Lee joined Gribbles Vet Lab as an anatomic pathology resident in 2023 after working as a small animal veterinarian and laboratory technician. Her presentation explores the challenges of diagnosing tumors using cytology, highlighting the correlation between cytological and histological findings. She will discuss why definitive diagnoses can sometimes be elusive, the limitations of both methods, and why a cautious, ‘fence-sitting’ approach is often essential in veterinary diagnostics.
Dr Daren Hanshaw
VMS (Hons), Diplomate ACVP, MRCVS
Dr Hanshaw is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists with extensive experience in diagnostic pathology across companion and production animals. His interests include dermatopathology, lymphoid neoplasia, and cytology-histology correlations. His presentation covers body cavity effusions in dogs and cats, focusing on classification through fluid analysis, cytology, and adjunctive testing. He will highlight how laboratory submissions can refine differential diagnoses and aid in identifying the underlying cause of fluid accumulation.
Dr Terry King
BVSc (Hons), MVSc (Path), MANZCVSc, PhD, Diplomate ACVP
With nearly five decades in veterinary practice, Dr King has extensive experience in general practice, emergency and critical care, and internal medicine. A former partner at Veterinary Specialist Services, he founded the pioneering PetICU, setting new standards in critical care. His presentation takes a humorous yet insightful look at building strong relationships with pathology laboratories. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, he explores how collaboration and communication enhance diagnostics and patient outcomes.
Dr Gary Turnbull
BVSc, MS, PhD, Diplomate ACVP
Gary Turnbull is a veterinarian, international speaker, and Director at Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business. A respected coach, he specialises in veterinary leadership, management, and business strategy. With a passion for personal leadership and communication, he has spoken globally and led key programs. Previously, he spent 20 years as a clinician and Director of East Port Veterinary Hospital. Now, he empowers veterinary professionals to take control of their careers and businesses.
Gribbles Veterinary Pathology and Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business are leaders in their fields, committed to advancing veterinary care and practice management. Gribbles offers expert diagnostic pathology services, while Lincoln Institute provides professional development to help veterinary teams thrive. Together, they’ve created a powerful collaboration, combining valuable pathology insights with practical business strategies. This event promises to deliver an exceptional learning experience, empowering veterinary professionals to enhance patient care, improve practice efficiency, and build stronger teams.
- Industry Insights: Gain valuable knowledge from leadingexperts in veterinary diagnostics and practice management.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry colleagues andprofessionals, fostering relationships that cansupport your practice's growth.
- Personal Development: Focused sessions to improve communication,collaboration, and confidence in veterinarypractice.
- Case-Based Discussions: Participate in engaging, real-world case studies to enhance your diagnostic and decision-making skills.
- Practical Strategies: Learn actionable tools and strategies to improve patient outcomes, client experience, and personal resilience.
