The School of Veterinary Medicine celebrated a landmark moment when our graduating cohort came together at the Northern Plaza at Boola Katitjin for a combined registration and graduation ceremony. It was the first time both were held as one.

For graduates and their families, the combined format meant students received their graduation certificates, completed their veterinary registration, and took the Veterinary Oath in one meaningful moment. 

With everything accomplished in a single ceremony, they could step straight into their careers, ready to care for animals, support industry, and serve communities across Western Australia and beyond.

Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks congratulated the cohort on making history and thanked academic staff and everyone who supported the students throughout their journey, before reminding graduates of the significance of the path ahead.

“You are now ready to undertake essential, purposeful work to ensure the health and welfare of animals and to help create a healthier, more sustainable future for us all. 

Our graduates will now help drive innovation in animal health, support sustainable farming practices, and meet the growing demand for veterinary services in regional and remote communities. 

The event was marked by cultural inclusion

The graduation ceremony opened with a Welcome to Country by Johnny Garlett, setting an inclusive and respectful tone for a day that honoured culture, community, and the vital role veterinarians play across Western Australia. 

This year’s cohort saw 94 students graduate and included the highest number of First Nations veterinary students since 1989, supported through Murdoch’s Waardong program, which continues to thrive as a pathway for Indigenous students in Veterinary Medicine.

In her speech, Chancellor Gail McGowan acknowledged the Waardong program’s success and celebrated this significant milestone.

“We are proud that our Waardong program continues to thrive,” Chancellor Gail McGowan said.

She also reminded graduates to take pride in their achievements, embrace the opportunities ahead, and remain part of Murdoch’s future.

“We invite you back as valued alumni, to visit us as developments and changes happen over coming years. You will always be welcome.”

An exciting phase for veterinary industry

The ceremony acknowledged distinguished supporters and donors in attendance, including Ted Powell whose generous gift will enable Murdoch to train 50% more vets and build a new state-of-the-art veterinary school and hospital. 

The legacy of two newly renamed major prizes was also highlighted, honouring individuals who shaped Murdoch’s veterinary school and left an enduring impact on the profession.

Olivia Darby-Jones was awarded the Emeritus Professor Mal Nairn Prize for Service to the School of Veterinary Medicine, which recognises exceptional service and professionalism, reflecting Nairn’s leadership as Murdoch’s foundation Professor of Clinical Pathology and later Dean. 

Jessica Parris received the Professor Bill Clark Memorial Prize for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Dux, celebrating academic excellence and commemorating Clark’s decades of contribution as Professor of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery and his role in building Murdoch’s veterinary program.

Together, alumni, donors, and graduates celebrated these achievements that will strengthen Murdoch’s role in advancing veterinary education and practice for years to come.