Meet The Team
Our Team
Palmwoods Veterinary Clinic is run by a ten person team made up of dedicated vets, veterinary nurses and support staff. We have three full-time vets, which allows you to access a broad range of expert care when you bring in your pets or need a vet to visit your farm for a health check-up.
Dr Brett Stone
Practice Owner (Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Hons))
Brett is the Principal Veterinarian who has been caring for pets and farm animals in Palmwoods and surrounding areas since 1993. He has owned Palmwoods Veterinary Clinic since 1998. Brett and the Palmwoods Vet team aim to provide the best veterinary care in medicine, surgery and wellness preventative healthcare for your animals. He qualified as a veterinarian in 1992 with First Class Honours. He is a member of the AVA, The Small Animal Veterinary Association and the Equine Veterinary Association.
Brett has a special interest in farm animal medicine and small animal orthopaedic surgery. He is also a chicken enthusiast - breeding a variety of chicks including his two favourites, the Black Australorp and Gold Laced Wyandotte.
His farm is a sanctuary to chickens, horses and all animals large and small. In his spare time, you'll find Brett spending quality time with his family.
Dr Michelle Gurney
BSc (Vet Bio), B.V.Sc, Mteach (Sec)
Dr. Michelle has been a dedicated member of our veterinary team for over a decade. She is a dedicated veterinarian with a deep passion for surgery and the hands-on challenge of helping animals heal. Meticulous and compassionate, she finds immense fulfillment in restoring health and quality of life to her patients. Her love for her work is matched only by her sense of adventure - always eager to learn, discover, and grow both in and out of the clinic.
When she’s not in scrubs, Dr. Michelle can often be found exploring the wild landscapes of Australia and Africa, captivated by the grace of lions, elephants, big cats, and zebras. These experiences fuel her appreciation for wildlife and the natural world. Back home, she treasures quiet moments with her family and her loyal dog, Josie, who never turns down the chance to join her on an outdoor adventure.
Dr Ben Clarke
BSc (Honours) BVSc. MANZCVS (Small Animal Surgery) & Registrar Small Animal Surgery
Veterinarian
Dr. Ben Clarke is our travelling surgeon, specialising in orthopaedic and complex soft tissue procedures. He earned his Bachelor of Science (1996), Honours in Parasitology (1997), and Bachelor of Veterinary Science (2001) from the University of Queensland. With a lifelong passion for surgery, Dr. Ben completed a soft tissue and oncologic surgery residency in 2005, followed by a 3-year European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) residency starting in 2008. In 2011, he became a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (MANZCVS) in Small Animal Surgery, recognising his advanced surgical expertise.
When not in surgery, you will find Dr Ben spending time with his daughter, camping, surfing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Dr Chris Small
BVSc. MANZCVS (Small Animal Internal Medicine)
Dr. Chris Small is a highly experienced Veterinarian with over 25 years in veterinary practice. Holding the prestigious Membership of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists (MACVSc) in Small Animal Internal Medicine, Dr. Small combines extensive clinical expertise with a strong commitment to advancing animal health.
With many years of dedicated ultrasound experience, Dr. Small has performed several thousand abdominal ultrasound examinations and hundreds of cardiac ultrasounds, showcasing exceptional skill in diagnostic imaging. This proficiency allows for precise, non-invasive assessment of complex internal conditions.
Cushla
Senior Surgical Nurse, (B.App.Sc (Vet Tech))
Our jack-of-all-trades Cushla is never far away when an interesting case comes running through the door. She is a highly qualified member of our team, having completed a degree in Veterinary Technology at the University of Queensland in 2006 and a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. She thrives while working under pressure, utilising her skills caring for critical patients and providing the highest standard of care for each pet on their road to recovery.
She is our nurse guru and innovator, with over ten years of dedication to keeping us organised and well-grounded. Cushla has a soft spot for scruffy, smiley pups! These guys always get extra treats and hugs.
Kathlene
Senior Veterinary Nurse, B.Ap.Sc, AssocDeg(NutSc)
Joining our team in 2019, Kathlene brings a deep passion for animal care, with special interests in equine nursing and nutrition. She is especially passionate about nutrition and how it can enhance the health, performance, and wellbeing of animals of all kinds.
Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing with friends and her furry family: Rue, her loyal dog, Holly her trusty horse, and Sammy and Tosca, her two affectionate cats. Her dedication, kindness, and expertise make her a valued member of our team and a favourite among clients and their pets.
Nicole
Senior Veterinary Nurse, Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
With years of experience and a deep love for animals, Nicole is dedicated to providing outstanding patient care and ensuring every pet feels safe, comfortable, and cared for. Her compassionate approach and attention to detail make her an invaluable part of the veterinary team. When she’s not at the clinic, you’ll find her exploring the outdoors with her two dogs, Benny and Basil, catching live music, or enjoying good food, wine, and laughter with friends.
Jules
Surgical and Medical Assistant Extraordinaire
With over 17 years of hands-on experience in the surgical field, Jules has built a reputation for excellence, empathy, and compassion. As a highly skilled surgical and medical assistant, she plays an essential role in ensuring every procedure runs seamlessly — from preparation to post-operative care. Her deep understanding of surgical protocols and unwavering commitment to patient safety make her an invaluable member of any surgical team.
Outside of the operating room, Jules brings the same passion and focus to the things she loves most — spending time outdoors, boating, camping, and fishing. Whether she’s on the water or around a campfire, she finds balance and inspiration in nature. At home, she enjoys the company of her two beloved cats, who are always ready to greet her after a long day at work.
Dedicated, skilled, and full of heart, Jules exemplifies what it means to be a Surgical and Medical Assistant Extraordinaire - combining professional excellence with a love for life’s simple joys.
Catherine
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
Catherine is a dedicated and compassionate veterinary nurse who’s known for being a great all-rounder in the clinic. Whether it’s assisting in surgery, providing gentle patient care, or supporting pet owners, she approaches every task with skill and kindness. Outside of work, Catherine loves spending time with her family and her cheeky dog, Pippin, exploring the outdoors and enjoying the simple joys of life together.
Tamara
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
With a passion for animals big and small, Tamara is our go-to all-rounder vet nurse who brings skill, compassion, and a great sense of humour to every day at the clinic. Whether assisting in surgery, caring for patients, or comforting anxious pets and their people, Tamara always goes above and beyond.
At home, she’s kept on her toes by her two cats - Stumpy, the wise and watchful one, and Omega, a cheeky character with plenty of personality. Together, they inspire Tamara’s love for providing the very best care to every furry friend who walks (or purrs!) through our doors.
