Prue Adams chats with three trailblazing cattle vets—Dr. Alan Guilfoyle, Associate Professor John House, and Dr. Alison Gunn—about their remarkable journeys, career pivots, and the evolving role of veterinarians in Australia’s cattle industry. From solo bush practice to cutting-edge herd health consultancy, they share candid insights, advice for early-career vets, and a shared vision for proactive, herd-level care. Plus, don’t miss the golden rule: never skip smoko!

In this inspiring episode, we follow the remarkable 50-year journey of Dr. Bill Tranter—from a dairy farm kid in Far North Queensland to a pioneering cattle vet and industry leader. Bill shares how he built one of Australia’s largest rural vet practices, introduced herd health programs, flew planes to remote farms, and mentored generations of vets. With passion, humility, and a love for cattle medicine, Bill’s story is a masterclass in seizing opportunity and building lasting relationships.

From jackaroo to pathologist, Dr. Mark Hazelton’s journey into cattle veterinary science is anything but typical. In this episode, Mark shares how his background in agricultural science and global farm experience shaped his passion for diagnostics, biosecurity, and the power of data. Now working at the Elizabeth MacArthur Agricultural Institute (NSW DPIRD), he discusses emerging threats, the role of AI in veterinary practice, and why communication and prevention are key to the future of cattle health. A must-listen for vets, students, and data-curious ag professionals.

In this episode, Dr. Jill Kelly shares her bold leap from a secure government role to launching her own livestock consultancy—complete with a subscription model, paid newsletters, and a thriving online presence as “Miss Vet.” Jill talks candidly about building a business from scratch, charging for conversations vets often give away for free, and balancing her work with side hustles in art and cattle trading. It’s a story of reinvention, resilience, and redefining what a vet career can look like.

Dr. Mike Laurence reflects on a career that’s spanned clinical practice, academia, and now industry leadership at Meat & Livestock Australia. From working through the UK’s foot-and-mouth outbreak to pioneering research in pain management and animal welfare, Mike shares insights on the evolving role of cattle vets, the importance of communication, and why you’re never truly stuck in your career. A powerful close to the series, packed with practical advice and inspiration for vets at every stage.