For many new Veterinary graduates, stepping into the professional world can feel both exhilarating and overwhelming. But for Kyah and Emma, starting their careers at Berry Vet Clinic (BVC) on the picturesque NSW South Coast turned out to be the perfect launchpad.
Kyah grew up just down the road in Shoalhaven Heads and always dreamed of returning to the coastal lifestyle after studying Veterinary Science in Sydney. Berry Vet Clinic wasn’t just a familiar name – it was her family’s go-to for animal care and a beloved placement site during her studies. So, when the opportunity to join the team as a Grad Vet was offered, she jumped at the chance.
“I love the variety of the role,” Kyah says. “Even on days that are cold and wet, when you’re out on the road the views are just amazing. It’s a beautiful part of the world.”
Working in a regional clinic like BVC means that no two days are ever the same. From companion animals in the clinic to livestock on local farms, new grads are exposed to a wide scope of work that simply isn’t available in metro areas. And while the challenges are real, so too are the opportunities.
“We perform a wide variety of treatments here,” Kyah explains. “There are fewer referral options than in metro areas, so we handle more in-house. I’ve even done additional study in orthopaedics and had hands-on surgical experience alongside visiting specialists – more than some surgical residents, I’d say.”
For Emma, who joined the team at the same time as Kyah, it was the strong workplace culture and ongoing learning opportunities that stood out.
“I’ve just completed a Distance Education course in small animal medicine through the Centre for Veterinary Education,” she says. “It’s a big commitment on top of full-time work, but Bryden and Sarah [the clinic owners] supported me every step of the way. They even scheduled dedicated study hours into my work week.”
Emma and Kyah started at BVC during a period of change, and it wasn’t always smooth sailing. But through it all, the consistent support from their employers made all the difference.
“Whatever we face, we face it as a team,” says Kyah. “Bryden and Sarah are incredibly supportive and invested in our growth.”
Bryden, one of the owners and a Vet himself, understands firsthand the emotional and physical demands of the profession.
“Often people become a veterinarian because they love animals,” he says, “but they don’t realise it can be very intense. Sometimes the work we do, and the conversations we have are hard, so building relationships and trust with people is really important.”
That human connection is a hallmark of BVC’s approach, as is a focus on balance.
“It’s vital to manage the work week so there’s time for breaks, family, and the wellbeing of our team,” Bryden adds.
Four years on, both Kyah and Emma are thriving – still part of the BVC team and still growing in their careers. They’ve experienced first-hand what it means to be truly supported as young vets, with room to explore their interests and develop their skills.
If you’re a newly graduating vet looking for a clinic where you’ll be encouraged, challenged, and genuinely supported – while living in one of the most beautiful and sought-after regions in Australia, now’s your chance.