Our Team
Watch our video to find out more about our dedicated team!
Our Veterinarians
Our Veterinary Nurses
Dr Lisa Kavanagh BVSc
Veterinarian
Dr Lisa graduated from the University of Sydney as a veterinarian in 2007 and gained a Master of Veterinary Studies in Small Animal Practice from Murdoch University in 2016. Dr Lisa has worked extensively in veterinary practices in the Sydney region and comes to NIVH with a wealth of experience and knowledge. She was most recently employed as a senior clinician in a busy practice in south west Sydney.
When not at work, Dr Lisa enjoys yoga, vintage treasure hunting, cooking, reading, music and hanging out with her Great Dane, Floyd and her gorgeous birds, Goose and Kermit.
Dr Sharon Tan BSc BVSc
Veterinarian
Dr Sharon graduated from the University of Sydney in 2006 though she had previously obtained a degree in Conservation Biology in Canada before deciding to pursue her dream of veterinary science in Australia. She returns to the workforce after a year on maternity leave with a renewed passion for all areas of clinical practice and endeavours to be a well-rounded general practitioner. Dr Sharon is thrilled to be joining the very capable NIVH team and is looking forward to meeting our wonderful clients.
When not at work, Dr Sharon is mum to two kids and a Devon Rex who loves a smooch. She loves hiking and swimming, but would very much prefer to be chilling with Netflix or enjoying a good meal these days.
Dr Matt Leong BVSc
Veterinarian
Dr Matt completed his veterinary studies at the University of Sydney in 2007. After working in mixed practice for 5 years on the outskirts of Sydney, he worked in the UK for 2 years, before returning to Australia. Dr Matt has practised in over 40 clinics between New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the UK.
His clinical interests lie in soft tissue surgery and dentistry, though he enjoys all aspects of general practice. Matt has been helping out the Northern Illawarra Veterinary Hospital team since 2018 and loves helping people help their pets.
Veterinary Nurse
I have been working in the veterinary industry since 2017 and recently completed my Certificate IV in Veterinary nursing at Yallah TAFE. With a love for all creatures great and small, it was after my move from the UK to Australia that I embarked on a lifelong dream to become a veterinary nurse. Previously I was a human sports therapist with a keen interest in rehabilitation. With my two qualifications my passion is to give every patient the best quality of life, with my specific areas of interest being orthopaedic rehabilitation, weight loss and geriatric care. I am also mum to two human daughters and three cocker spaniels and a keen soccer player!
Tegan Macdonald
Veterinary Nurse
After starting with NIVH as a casual veterinary nurse I have recently joined the team on a regular basis. I have worked locally as a nurse for 10 years and still love it just as much as the day I started. I have also studied zoo keeping but my heart has always been set on veterinary nursing. I have a special interest in surgery, behaviour and care of neonates. Things I love about my job are no two days are ever the same, you never know what you will be caring for next. I love being able to make a difference to our clients and patients through the care they receive from us. We have a great, passionate team at NIVH and I'm very proud to be part of it. When I'm not working I'm kept busy looking after my 2 young kids and 4 fur kids, as well as 2 birds and Franklin the turtle.
Jess Adams
Veterinary Nurse
I have worked as a veterinary nurse in the Illawarra since I was 15 years old, graduating with my Certificate IV in Veterinary nursing in 2010. My passion has always been with all animals great and small and I find huge rewards working with them and their owners knowing I'm making a difference. I have a special interest in surgical and medical cases but love every day on the job and couldn't imagine doing anything different.
My family includes myself, my partner Richie and my daughter Keeley. We also have 3 dogs; Diesel, Axel and Ruby and a cat named Chevy. On our days off we all love spending time outdoors camping, exploring new places and getting away for weekend fun!