Queensland’s only School of Veterinary Science has launched a $1 million fundraising drive to provide state-of-the art equipment and facilities for its students.
The 2500 graduates of The University of Queensland’s School of Veterinary Science have been providing a vital service to pet owners, farmers and wildlife organisations since 1936.
But the decrease in Commonwealth Government funding for universities and a higher cost of training veterinary students than medical students, have combined to leave the UQ Vet School in urgent need of funds.
The University has provided $1.6 million to launch the fundraising campaign.
The campaign is being supported by vets across Queensland, as well as by popular television vet Dr Harry Cooper, who is appearing at an Open Day being held at the UQ Vet School early next year.
President of the North Queensland Veterinary Association Dr Graham Tuckett said a modern and fully equipped UQ Vet School was vital both for the training of vets and the breadth of its research.
“Facility and technology upgrades and increasingly more sophisticated and expensive equipment are needed to meet the public’s demand for veterinarians who can deliver best practice health care to pets, livestock and wildlife,” he said.
Researchers at the UQ Vet School are making breakthroughs in animal ailments as diverse as heartworm and tick paralysis in dogs, diabetes in cats, tropical livestock health and the deadly horse disease laminitis.
Dr Tuckett said those wanting to join in the UQ Vet School campaign could visit their local veterinary clinic and pick up a brochure and donor card. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.
An “honour board” is being established at the UQ Vet School to recognise pet owners who donate $100 or more. Their pet’s name will be recorded on the board as a show of appreciation.
Media: For more information, please contact: Head of the UQ Veterinary School, Dr Neil McMeniman (telephone 07 3365 2784), Dr Graham Tuckett (telephone 07 4956 1897) or Margaret Burke of the University’s Development Office (telephone 07 3346 3902).
