New Chief Vet announced as site work underway on RSPCA SA's new home
RSPCA South Australia is today celebrating two milestones - the successful recruitment of a new Chief Vet and the commencement of earthworks on the O'Halloran Hill site where staff, volunteers and rescued animals will be relocating in early 2024.
The appointment of Dr Gayle Kothari to the role of Chief Vet follows the retirement of RSPCA SA's much-loved and respected first-ever vet, Dr Brad Ward, in July.
Both vets have worked closely together as part of the vet team at Lonsdale. On learning of Dr Kothari's appointment, Dr Ward said he was "overjoyed" and described his former colleague as the perfect fit for the role he filled for 15 years.
Equally delighted is Tim Charles, who has stepped out of managing RSPCA SA's Animal Operations to oversee the building of the new Animal Care Campus, to be located within the community precinct of Glenthorne/Ityamaiitpinna Yarta National Park.
"As we prepare to transition into our new facility, which will include South Australia's first purpose-built wildlife hospital, the recruitment of our new Chief Vet was crucial," Mr Charles said. "Gayle has demonstrated all the skills needed to assist us in setting up both our new vet clinic and the wildlife hospital and ensuring both run as efficiently as possible.
"Drawing on three years in wildlife conservation, two and a half years in private practice and almost six years with the Lonsdale team, Gayle also provided valuable input when we were designing these facilities and their processes."
In recent years Dr Kothari has played a pivotal role within the vet team, including developing and leading RSPCA SA's first Community Cat Desexing program (a joint initiative with Onkaparinga City Council) and treating injured wildlife in the aftermath of the bushfires on Kangaroo Island.
"This is a very exciting time for RSPCA SA as we prepare to relocate to a vastly better facility and location for the thousands of animals coming into our care each year, and to expand into the 24/7 treatment and care of injured and ill wildlife," Mr Charles said. "Having Gayle on board, with all her enthusiasm, skills and experience, will set us up for great success."
