Sophie Elphick

Senior Veterinarian and Director

Started in the veterinary industry in 2007

Growing up on a dairy farm, my initial encounter with veterinary medicine left a lasting impression. Witnessing a cow afflicted with milk fever, which had fallen onto an electric fence, receive treatment from the visiting vet, who administered 4in1 that promptly revived the cow, ignited my passion for animal care. From that moment, I was determined to advocate for the well-being of animals in every capacity.

My dedication to providing top-tier care stems from a belief that delivering excellence in clinical treatment not only benefits the patients but also enhances client satisfaction. I firmly believe in transparent communication and clear treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for the animals under my care.

At home, my husband James and I are busy raising our two sons and a daughter. We are deeply involved in breeding Warmbloods for showjumping and managing our own horses alongside client horses for breeding and foaling. Our farm also houses sheep and chickens, and we cherish the companionship of our beloved dogs, Zevah the Saluki,  Lulu the Greyhound and two rescue cats.

Elizabeth Anastasiou

Veterinarian

Started in the veterinary industry in 1991

Over three decades ago, my journey in veterinary science commenced driven by a profound fondness for animals and a drive to contribute positively to their well-being and welfare.

As a veterinarian, I recognize the significance of fostering trust and connection with both our animal patients and their owners. My goal is to establish a welcoming and caring atmosphere where animals experience comfort and affection, while pet guardians feel confident and well-informed throughout the process. I am particularly passionate about consultations and surgical procedures.

When I'm not working, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, as well as my beloved dog and cats.

Russell Watson

Veterinarian

Started in the veterinary industry in 1997

My journey started with a bachelor's degree in science, then a switch to Veterinary Science 3 years later at the University of Melbourne. Since then, I've worked all over, from rural dairy cattle clinics to urban areas in Australia and the UK.

In 2007, I settled on Phillip Island, finding a balance between farm work and small animal care. But in 2016, I needed a change to focus on family, so I became a locum vet, lending a hand wherever needed. Then, in 2020, I landed at Cowes Vet Clinic, where I've been ever since.

I enjoy simplifying complex cases for my clients and guiding them through tough times. With nearly three decades of experience, I've witnessed incredible advancements in veterinary medicine. What used to be challenging cases in the '90s are now treated more effectively. I stay updated by connecting with fellow vets and attending ongoing education. It's rewarding to share new treatment options with clients and hear their relief when their pets improve.

Outside of work, family comes first. I'm heavily involved in my daughters' school activities and community initiatives. We're also diving into weekend sports, with soccer becoming a big part of our lives with the Phillip Island Breakers Club.

Our furry family member, Zoe, a Jack Russell-Kelpie cross, came to us as a rescue. She's brought so much joy to our lives; we call her our "miniature kelpie."

Lorraine Williams

Veterinarian

Started in the veterinary industry in 2010

I've been passionate about animals for as long as I can remember. I was born and raised in beautiful Melbourne, but my journey took me up north to study veterinary science at the University of Queensland.

After graduation, I decided to settle down in the town of Gundy, where I could immerse myself in rural veterinary practice. But eventually, the pull of family brought me closer to home, and I made the move to Phillip Island, where my parents reside.

My love for animals extends beyond the clinic walls—I've got quite a menagerie of my own at home! When I'm not busy at work or tending to my beloved pets, you can often find me out on the water, indulging in my passion for water skiing. It's my ultimate way to unwind and connect with nature. I also have a soft spot for creativity, and there's nothing I love more than building intricate Lego creations. Family time is precious to me, and I cherish every moment spent with my loved ones and daughter, Elizabeth.

Emma Kennedy

Veterinarian

Started in the veterinary industry in 2010

I've been on quite the journey in the veterinary world. My career started in a mixed practice in the South Gippsland region, where I honed my skills and passion for animal health for the first five years. But then I spent two adventurous years traveling and locuming across Australia. Eventually, my heart led me to settle in the captivating landscapes of Arnhem Land, NT.

In Arnhem Land, I initiated and delivered Australia’s first Council-driven, culturally sensitive Vet & Animal Management program to Aboriginal communities across East Arnhem Land. This project has been a cornerstone of my professional journey and I am still passionate about laying the foundations for outreach programs in Aboriginal communities in Arnhem Land and continue to provide voluntary support to these programs and to other vets in a similar setting.

Throughout my career, I've been honoured to receive recognition for my contributions to animal welfare. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) Action Award 2011; For Outstanding Veterinary Contribution to Animal Welfare. Subsequently, in 2015, the University of Melbourne honoured me with an Alumni Award, acknowledging my impact on the veterinary industry.

Looking ahead, I'm eager to expand my knowledge of complementary medicine, particularly acupuncture and Chinese medicine, as I believe in exploring all avenues to enhance the well-being of our animal companions.

With a dedication to finding the best solution for each patient's unique predicament, I approach veterinary care with empathy and understanding. Drawing from my own experiences as a pet owner, I easily relate to clients and their concerns, always striving to put myself in their shoes to provide the most compassionate and effective care possible.

I find true happiness in the company of animals; our home is a bustling menagerie, featuring an assortment of dogs, cats (including the three-legged variety), ponies, sheep, chickens, and a few cows. When I'm not tending to our furry and feathered friends, you'll likely find me outdoors—whether it's gardening, farming, surfing, hiking, fishing, or playing footy.

James Elphick

Practice Owner/Manager

Growing up in rural South England as the son of a Veterinary Surgeon and Veterinary Nurse, I initially pursued a career in engineering. I began my journey as an apprentice engineer in 2005, specializing in building MRI Gradients and Superconducting magnets. After earning my HND in Mechanical Engineering in 2009, I transitioned into project engineering and management for four years.

In 2012, I made the move to Australia, where I spent three years working as a self-employed agricultural engineer. In 2015, my wife Sophie and I founded Corylus Pty Ltd and acquired Station Street Veterinary Clinic. Currently, I oversee the day-to-day operations of the company and spearhead its business development initiatives.

Outside of my professional endeavours, I enjoy driving Woodford, affectionately known as Woody, one of the Clydesdales I bred. You can often find me traversing the roads around Loch and Nyora. Additionally, I manage a flock of 50+ first cross ewes with Southdown Rams to produce Prime Lamb.

Michelle George

HR Manager

Michelle joined Cowes Veterinary Surgery and their sister clinic Station Street Veterinary Clinic as the Human Resources Manager in 2024 with an extensive background in the Veterinary Industry spanning over 34 years.

Michelle’s special interest, apart from animals is ensuring the team members in veterinary practice are looked after and have every opportunity for professional and personal development. Her career in the veterinary industry began as a nurse at Korumburra-Kooweerup Veterinary clinics, moving into practice management in 2007 and business ownership in 2016. During this time Michelle completed her certificate in veterinary nursing in 1997, a Bachelor of Business in 2015 and a Master of Human Resource Management in 2022 to ensure her knowledge and education would be used to benefit the industry she is so passionate about.

After a short time away from the veterinary industry Michelle managed an allied health clinic in Leongatha but was missing the patient and client contact within veterinary clinics. She felt her passion and experience for the veterinary clinic setting could be better utilised with the team at Cowes VS as her values resonated with CVS to provide compassionate and understanding animal care with an open, empathetic and welcoming mindset. Michelle believes by creating a positive workplace that encourages team communication, trust and respect, a greater mindset and work life balance can be achieved.

Michelle has a daughter who is completing university in Melbourne, and she shares her home with her partner Paul, a Golden Retriever, Dolly, a Burmese cat, Yoshi, a Siamese x, Delphine and 3 horses. When not spending time with her partner signwriting Michelle can be found on the speedway track racing a standard saloon at local tracks such as Nyora, Drouin, Rosedale and Bairnsdale.

Emily Wolfenden

Senior Vet Nurse

My journey into the world of veterinary nursing began with a love for animals and a desire to make a positive impact in their lives. Every day in the clinic brings new challenges and triumphs.

As a veterinary nurse, I understand the importance of building trust and rapport with both our patients and clients. I strive to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where animals feel safe and loved, and pet owners feel reassured and informed every step of the way. My specific areas of interest are cytology and surgery.

Outside of work, I spend time with my wonderful family, my dog, my cat and chickens.

Kim Pike

Senior Vet Nurse

25 years of veterinary industry experience

I have had a passion for animals since I was young and have worked in the veterinary and animal care industry since high school when I completed work experience in a veterinary clinic which led me to become a veterinary nurse.

I have worked in general small animal clinics, emergency centres and was practice manager of a general small animal veterinary clinic for 5 years.

These days, I like to share my veterinary skills and knowledge with my students in a teaching role outside the clinic. However, I still look forward to my clinical nursing shifts, where I specifically love the challenge of nursing critical hospital cases and completing surgical nursing duties.

Keeping up to date with the latest in veterinary medicine is important to me and I regularly participate in continuing education opportunities.

At home we are masters to 1 cat and 1 dog and have a young family who keep me busy while not at work. I enjoy beach visits and playing sports.

Casey Jordan-Lelliott

Veterinary Nurse

Started in the veterinary industry in 2019
Currently completing Cert IV in veterinary nursing.

I’ve been a resident on Phillip Island for over 20 years, and throughout that time my family has chosen Cowes Vet to be their primary vet care for our pets. Seeing the compassion and care that has been given to my family pets over the years has inspired me to pursue the career of veterinary nursing. I’ve loved being able to give back to a place that had such an impact on my own personal life.

When I’m not at the clinic I’m usually reading, watching a series or movie, going on walks or tending to my plants (when I remember). On my days off I’m typically being a slave to my cat, Loomis’s, feeding schedule or being smothered in “love” by my flat-coated retriever, Dewey.

My areas of interests are imaging, pathology and surgery. And I love asking a question or two (hundred).

Tegan Carter

Head Nurse

Veterinary industry experience since 2010

Interest in wildlife care, holistic health care and patient quality of life 

From a young age I’ve had a strong connection to animals, growing up with an array of little companions. 

My nurturing & compassionate personality led me to spend years volunteering with a local wildlife organisation & by 21 years of age I made the easy decision to begin a career in the veterinary field in a small animal practice while studying a Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing at Box Hill Institute.

This dedication to animals drew me to a unique opportunity to live at an elephant sanctuary/dog shelter in Thailand for 5 months, rehabilitating and caring for many rescued & displaced animals. 

Since moving to the Island in 2018 I’ve enjoyed learning about my new home & making friends in the community through environmental volunteer projects. Participating in regular Eastern Barred Bandicoot trap and release studies with Phillip Island Nature parks and Melbourne Zoos vet team & various bush revegetation activities. It’s a thoroughly rewarding experience contributing to the recovery of a threatened species & the ongoing protection of precious habitat. 

In the future I aspire to work/ volunteer in animal welfare projects in remote communities & travel around doing wildlife rescue or rehabilitation to improve their health & living conditions. 

Outdoors is where I love to be, so when I’m not in the clinic I relish going on adventures with Calli the rescue Rottweiler x, surfing with my boyfriend & friends, hiking, gardening & illustrating native flora. 

Ashlin Stewart

Veterinary Nurse

Started in the veterinary industry in 2022

With a childhood passion for animals I dedicated all my schooling and work experiences to push me towards working in the animal care industry. I transitioned from three years of working as a farm hand to a role in veterinary nursing.

Through my own personal journey of caring for reptiles I have developed an interest in caring for unique pets in the veterinary field. In addition, I am passionate about rescue. The opportunity to provide care and support to animals in need resonates with me. Whether it's nursing injured or neglected animals back to health or offering comfort and rehabilitation to those in distress, I am committed to making a positive difference in the lives of animals. This passion drives me to go above and beyond in my role as a veterinary nurse, advocating for the well-being of all creatures, regardless of their circumstances.

Maddy Egglestone

Trainee Veterinary Nurse

Currently Studying Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing

In 2021, my journey into the veterinary field began with my enrolment in the Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience degree. It was during this time that I embarked on an enriching experience with two placements at Cowes Veterinary Surgery.

My love for animals traces back to my upbringing, where I was surrounded by a variety of furry and feathered companions. This fostered a deep connection and sense of responsibility towards animal care and welfare, shaping my career path as a veterinary nurse.

Working in a clinic holds a special place in my heart, as it allows me to interact closely with both people and their beloved pets. I find immense joy in building relationships with pet owners, listening to their concerns, and ensuring the best possible care for their furry friends. In the future, I aspire to pursue further studies in veterinary medicine.

Outside of the clinic, you will often find me outdoors camping, engaging in friendly competition on the netball courts or going for a morning walk with my furry friend, Harli.