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Excellence with Heart
Dr Jeannet Kessels is a veterinarian, creative entrepreneur and climate advocate based in Queensland, Australia.
Since 1970, when Jeannet was five years old, there has been a 70% drop in global wildlife numbers. Climate change is now heaping critical, escalating impacts on the health, welfare and sheer existence of those that remain – wildlife, livestock and pets – who have no voice to speak.
Jeannet is single-minded in her passion to bring about real change, and fast, initially through establishing Australian Veterinary Environmental Alliance (AVEA), now scaling to the World Veterinary Environmental Alliance, inspiring the veterinary profession all around the world towards action on climate, sustainability and biodiversity. Positive, forward-thinking organisations that are world-leading, innovative and profoundly important.
AVEA and WVEA are honoured by the patronage of key leaders, including Professor Peter Doherty (Nobel Laureate) and Rt Hon Helen Clark ONZ, global public leader and former Prime Minister of New Zealand (1999-2008).
Caring for the animals of the world
After graduating from the University of Queensland School of Veterinary Science in 1986, Jeannet spent over 30 years in clinical practice, with highlights including surgery and reproduction. She loved the deep connections formed with the community around her.
Starting with a little two-room clinic at her home, allowing time with her children, Jeannet’s practice grew into the Greater Springfield Veterinary Group, now with three hospitals, employing 70 dedicated staff, an excellent work culture, and high staff retention.
Jeannet’s strategic, fun, creative and forward-thinking approach, together with strong leadership, has created a culture that promotes individual growth and professional satisfaction. Her motto ‘Excellence with Heart’ is reflected across both life and work. She is driven by kindness and surrounds herself with brilliant minds.
Over the years, Jeannet’s entrepreneurial spirit has led to the creation of Groodles Australia, an incredible community enterprise raising over $780 000 for charity.
Most of all, Jeannet loves time with family, especially her children and precious grandchildren.
Speaking Engagements
Australian Federal Parliament
World Veterinary Association General Assembly – 2024 (Cape Town), 2025 (Washington DC) and 2026 (Tokyo)
Canadian Vet Medical Association
World Vet Association Animal Welfare Congress
Zoo and Aquarium Association National Conference Panel –Sydney
Vet Expo Australia; 2021 – 2026
Climate Care Program National Launch at GSVETS
Bangalore University; Climate Change and Animal Health; Inspiring Climate Action through the Veterinary Profession.
Professionals Advocating for Climate Action; An Overview of VfCA.
Federal and State Chief Veterinary Officer’s Forum – An Overview of Vets for Climate Action.
Commonwealth Veterinary Association; Why Vets Need to Act on Climate Change.
Veterinary Business Group of Australian Veterinary Association; Creating a Legacy.
Landcare Boonah; Vets and Climate Action.
Springfield Chamber of Commerce; Why Climate Change Matters to Business and What We Need to do About It.
Rotary Ipswich – The business case for net zero.
Australian Veterinary Practice Management Association – Thoughts on Excellence.
Veterinary Business Group – Thoughts on Culture.
University of QLD; Clinical Coats Ceremony.
Awards & Memberships
Responsibilities
Training
Awards
Videos & Podcasts
