Veterinarians

Dr. Rebecca Walshe

BVSc (Hons.) MACVSc (Equine Dentistry)

In 2006 Rebecca went to the World Equestrian Games in Aachen as a groom for Kelly Layne on the Dressage team. She spent 6 weeks in the lead up to the World Equestrian Games at Ulla Salzgeber's training stables with the Australian Dressage team.

Rebecca completed her Post Graduate Veterinary Membership exams for the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists (ACVSc) in the field of Equine Dentistry in 2008.

She has starred in roles on the television programme Animal Hospital and she has also been heard on ABC radio on Saturday mornings, offering veterinary advice.

She is a horse rider and competitor, particularly in the field of dressage. She is currently campaigning XL Overtime and Stylist at FEI level and is sponsored by Horseland Canberra, Prydes horse feed and Jacob Park Thoroughbreds.

Rebecca has a Rhodesian Ridgeback x Viszla dog called Lilly and a cat called Anna Nicole that help play in the dressage arena on a daily basis whilst Rebecca trains her horses.

Dr. Suzanne Polak

BVSc, BAppSc (Equine).

Suzanne is originally Canberra born & bred, before spending some fantastic travelling years working with all types of horses in Australia, the USA & Denmark. She returned to Australia to commence her studies, initially with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Equine Studies), then also completing her Veterinary Degree at the University of Sydney. Since graduating, Suzanne has been working at a busy mixed practice in western NSW, but jumped at the chance to join the CEH team when the opportunity arose to spend all her time working with horses. Suzanne's special interests include reproduction, medicine and anaesthesia. Suzanne has already had some challenging veterinary cases since her arrival at CEH, which have resulted in healthy horses and happy owners.

Dr. Alexandra Holdsworth

BVSc. MAgr. BHlthSc (Nutrit & Dietet).

Alex is the latest Veterinarian to join our team in 2010. She has had a long, yet exciting journey to CEH. She began her career as a human dietitian, then after seeing much of Australian health systems decided animals were her passion. She completed a Masters of Agriculture (Animal disease and Nutrition) through the University of New England which lead her into a career as a large animal vet. Alex completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at The University of Sydney in 2010. She has spent her life around horses and has worked in many facets of the industry including NSW racing swab official, EFA steward, thoroughbred yearling preparation and sales and endurance veterinary support. Although recent to the veterinary profession she has developed interests in radiology, reproduction, sports medicine and neonatal health. Outside of her career she spends most of her time outdoors, playing sport, drinking coffee and enjoying music.

Dr. Mark Ethell

BVSc, MVetClinStud, MACVSc, Diplomate ACVS, Specialist Equine Surgeon

Mark joined Canberra Equine Hospital as a Managing Partner and Specialist Equine Surgeon in January 2002 and his interests include all aspects of equine surgery and lameness.

As a result of his advanced surgical training and success in examinations, Mark is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. This qualification is highly regarded down under and has allowed Mark to register as a Specialist in Equine Surgery in Australia and New Zealand. Mark was awarded a Master’s degree by the University of Sydney in 1997. Mark is a Member of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists by examination in Equine Surgery, and he became a Fellow of the Australasian College of Biomedical Scientists in 2007.

Mark is a great contributor to the veterinary profession. He has served as President of the ACT Division of the Australian Veterinary Association as well as on the AVA's National Policy Council. Mark also served on the Committee of the Australian Veterinary Practice Management Association and was the inaugural President of the Australian Veterinary Business Association and still sits on the Board.

Mark is a committed family man and with his wife, Sally, they manage the hectic lives of four children, two dogs, two cats and numerous goldfish.

Dr. Adrian Coghill

BVSc (Hons)

Adrian graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2001 with honours. He spent several years in northern Victoria in large animal practice before locuming in New Zealand and England. On return to Australia Adrian worked under specialist cattle veterinarian Prof Jacob Malmo AO in Maffra, Victoria for 2years before moving to Canberra. Adrian’s main interest and focus at Canberra Equine Hospital is on servicing the cattle side of the practice.