Built in 1982, the hospital, with its ample space, carefully planned work areas and high level of diagnostic and therapeutic equipment reflects the aims of the two principals, Peter Best and Martin Pearson, to provide the best possible veterinary services to the Tamworth region.

South Tamworth Animal Hospital has continued to grow and develop into a busy general and referral veterinary practice serving northern New South Wales. The hospital’s commitment to excellence was recognised in 1991 when Peter received the Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association’s Veterinarian of the Year Award. Martin, who joined the practice as a partner in 1997, brought with him considerable expertise after being head of the anaesthesia and intensive care service at the Sydney University Veterinary Hospital for eight years.

At present, the South Tamworth Animal Hospital team comprises four veterinarians, two receptionists, three full time and four part-time veterinary nurses and a business manager.

Since 1987, Tamworth TAFE has conducted TAFE Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Receptionist and Animal Attending courses on the South Tamworth Animal Hospital premises, using the practice as a “teaching hospital”. This arrangement, which is unique among Australian TAFE courses, provides the students with a far greater component of practical experience than would be otherwise possible. All of the full-time nursing and reception staff at South Tamworth Animal Hospital have successfully completed the Veterinary Nursing Certificate course.

Both Martin and Peter have presented talks at the annual Australian Veterinary Association Conference as well as many other presentations to medical and veterinary groups in Australia and overseas. They have published a number of research and continuing education articles and are both regularly called upon to act as examiners for the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists

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