OUR VETERINARIANS
DR JO MACKANESS
BVSC (HONS)
Veterinarian
Dr. Jo is an experienced veterinarian who loves all parts of veterinary work, but has a special passion for all surgery – both soft tissue and orthopaedic.
Dr Jo grew up south of the border in a small NSW country town and graduated from the University of Qld in 1997. Since then, she has acquired a wide range of experience working in regional Australia, New Zealand and, for six years in the UK.
As great an experience as her time abroad was, she loves being back in Australia’s warm sunny climate. Outside of work, Dr Jo enjoys spending time outdoors, cooking and keeping fit. She and her husband are also kept very busy at home with their son and daughter.
You can see Dr Jo on Mondays, Tuesday mornings, Thursdays and alternating Saturdays
DR ERINA IMAI
BVSC CVA (IVAS) MANZCVS (SMALL ANIMAL DENTISTRY)
Veterinarian
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Dr. Erina moved to Australia from Japan to pursue her veterinary studies at the University of Melbourne, graduating in 2010. She has been practicing in Adelaide and Brisbane ever since and joined our team in 2018.
With a passion for holistic treatments, Dr. Erina integrates alternative therapies with western medicine to provide comprehensive care. She is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, holding an internationally recognised qualification, and is also a member of the ANZCVS in Small Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery. As her expertise in dentistry continues to grow, Dr. Erina is excited to offer advanced dental care for her patients.
Outside of work, Dr. Erina and her husband enjoy competing in both intra- and interstate badminton tournaments. Additionally, Dr. Erina has a keen interest in aerial and circus arts, and she loves staying active through running. At home, she is the proud owner of two Miniature Schnauzers: Sora, a 14-year-old rescue and registered Delta Therapy dog, and Hina, a 3-year-old. Every week, Sora accompanies Dr. Erina to the Royal Brisbane Hospital for therapy dog visits, bringing joy to the wards.
You can see Dr Erina on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and alternating Sundays.
DR CAROLINE HIEW
BVSC HONS
Veterinarian
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Caroline completed her veterinary studies from the University of QLD in 2022 and joined our team in early 2023. With a keen interest in both surgery and medicine, Caroline is passionate about providing the best possible care for her patients.
Outside of work, Caroline enjoys staying active by going on hikes and exploring new markets. She's a foodie at heart, always eager to try new cuisines. At home, she loves spending time with her two cats, Lil Mac (a ginger Domestic Short Hair) and Nelly (a tortoiseshell), who are never far from a cuddle.
DR FELICITY WATERFIELD BVSC
Veterinarian
Felicity completed her studies in 2020 at James Cook University. She has been part of the Carindale Vet team for more than two years now. She particularly enjoys the medical aspects of her work as a veterinarian, and especially enjoys working with cats.
At home, she loves to spend time with her pets: Sheep (a white cat) and Dog (a black cat)! Her hobbies include roller-skating, rock climbing, piano and boardgames.
DR VIKASINI PALANIVEL
Veterinarian
Vikasini is a practising veterinarian with a strong background in animal science and clinical care. She completed her studies at Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) in India in 2022, followed by two years of advanced training, and later earned a Master of Animal Science from the University of Queensland in 2025.
With a professional interest in internal medicine, Vikasini is committed to evidence-based veterinary care and improving health outcomes for animals. Her clinical approach combines practical experience with genuine dedication to animal welfare.
Outside of her professional work, Vikasini enjoys cooking, exploring good food, and spending quality time with her family. Vikasini has a beautiful yellow Labrador named Happy, who lives with her parents in India. She has a particular fondness for large dog breeds, which continue to inspire her passion for veterinary medicine.
OUR NURSES
CAROLINE HUGHES
Team Leader and Veterinary Nurse (RVN)
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Caroline has been a dedicated member of the Carindale Vet Surgery team since December 2011. With a passion for veterinary care, Caroline completed her studies in 2003 and has since honed her expertise in various areas, particularly radiology, laboratory work, and delivering exceptional customer service.
Outside of work, Caroline enjoys a bustling family life with her three boys, who keep her busy with their sports, including triathlon and basketball. Caroline has also recently taken up running and enjoys the thrill of live music, with a soft spot for a good rave when she can find the time!
CHLOE BATCHELOR
Veterinary Nurse
Chloe joined our team in 2019 after completing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. Chloe has a passion for all aspects of veterinary nursing, with a particular interest in surgery and working with large breed dogs.
Outside of work, Chloe enjoys spending her time at the beach, often accompanied by her German Shepherd, Makita, and her Border Collie, Charlie. She also has a Domestic Short Hair cat named Archie. When she’s not outdoors, you can find Chloe at live music events or curled up with a good book.
MEL CLAYTON
Veterinary Nurse (Cert IV)
Mel has been an integral part of the Carindale Vet team since 2016. After many years of working with animals, she followed her dream and earned her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. Mel's primary areas of expertise are surgery, dentistry, and feline care, where her passion for cats truly shines.
In her downtime, Mel enjoys soaking up live music, indulging in creative crafternoons, and spending cherished moments with her family and friends. Her hands are currently full with ongoing home renovations and the joys of raising her little one.
At home, Mel shares her life with her fiancée, their child, and their adored fur baby, Lenny.
ALLISON KONG
Veterinary Nurse
Allison is a dedicated veterinary nurse who studied through Open Colleges and has been working in the field for over three years.
She is passionate about patient care and finds the most rewarding part of her role is seeing animals recover and return to their happy, healthy selves. Allison brings a compassionate and attentive approach to every patient she cares for, always prioritising comfort and wellbeing throughout their treatment and recovery.
Outside of work, Allison enjoys travelling with her husband and spending quality time with her greyhound, Penny. A true greyhound enthusiast, she has a special soft spot for the breed and loves advocating for their gentle and loving nature.
OUR GROOMERS & ASSISTANTS
MELISSA JAMIESON
Groomer
Melissa has over 15 years of professional grooming experience. She brings skill, patience, and pride to every appointment.
She loves the hands-on nature of grooming and finds genuine satisfaction in completing a job well, especially knowing she’s helped a pet feel comfortable, clean, and confident. Melissa is known for her calm approach and attention to detail, ensuring each animal leaves her care looking great and feeling at ease.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys life surrounded by animals. Her home is often described as a mini zoo! She loves spending time at cafés, relaxing by the beach, and recharging outdoors whenever she can.
ISABELLA MADDISON
Groomer
More information coming soon...
VENITA LARGE
Nursing Assistant and Hydrobather
Venita has been with us since starting while in high school and we are lucky to still have her doing our Saturday hydrobaths every second week. She has also started working as veterinary nursing assistant two afternoons a week and is looking to pursue further study towards becoming a veterinary nurse.
Venita is a talented painter and photographer and loves to spend time in her mum’s garden or out fishing with her dad.