Recipient of inaugural award for sheep and beef cattle veterinarian

Oamaru’s Dave Robinson has been recognised for his huge contribution to the sheep and beef sector, receiving the inaugural award for Vet of the Year – Sheep and Beef Cattle Veterinarian.

The award, from the Sheep and Beef Cattle Branch of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), celebrates success in the profession and is awarded for significant veterinary contribution to the sheep and beef industry in the past 18 months.

Branch President Anthony Oswald says Dave’s determination and commitment has seen him contributing across research, education and support services for both veterinarians and farmers.

He has undertaken research, particularly in lameness and footrot, carrying out pilot trials for the product Micotil.

“This work has the potential for Micotil to be licensed in New Zealand and would be a major step forward for veterinarians to manage footrot and lameness, working alongside their farmer clients.”

“Dave has demonstrated strong stewardship for this antibiotic product, working with the NZVA Antibiotic Steering Committee, to develop prudent guidelines for its use when it is launched commercially. He has strongly advocated that the product be veterinarian-only and used responsibly as part of a whole farm plan approach.”

Anthony Oswald says that Dave is a clinical veterinarian that constantly pushes the boundaries, offering services such as embryo transfer and AI, in sheep and cattle, using skills that he has perfected on his own stud flock.
“He’s the epitome of someone who lives and breathes sheep and beef, and is making huge inroads for both the veterinary profession and the sheep and beef industry. He has a great relationship with his farmer clients and is 100% committed to supporting them in their endeavours. We also acknowledge his outstanding work as a mentor to younger veterinarians.”

He has also delivered “Winter Roadshows” involving regional farmer meetings on topics such as fodder beet feeding and the benefits of tape drench. In response to this year’s nationwide drought he has also organised ‘drought BBQs’ in the worst hit regions to support and offer practical advice to those who are struggling, supporting farmers, as well as veterinarians and the wider rural community.

Veterinarian Ryan Luckman, of Veterinary Centre Waimate, who nominated him for the award says: “His passion and enthusiasm for the subject are only outweighed by his inability to accept there are only 24 hours in a day!”

The award, which includes a mystery weekend away for Dave and his wife, seeks to inspire other sheep and beef veterinarians, as well as veterinary students who may be considering specialising in sheep and beef.

Nominees must be a registered veterinarian working in New Zealand who has used their position to have a positive influence.

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