Animal surgeries a first for GOTAFE
Vet Nursing students are gaining hands-on surgical experience in a first for GOTAFE's Tone Road, Wangaratta Campus.
Real animal surgeries are now being performed at the campus, providing vital care for rescue animals while giving students the chance to learn in a functioning clinical environment.
Certificate IV in Vet Nursing (ACM40418) students are benefiting from the new initiative, which involves rescue cats being desexed at the Animal Care Training Clinic.
The program gives students the opportunity to learn in a real clinical environment, performing essential procedures that not only enhance their learning but also make a difference in the community.
Under the supervision of qualified veterinary nurses and veterinarians, students are involved in every step from pre-surgery preparation and anaesthetic monitoring to post-operative care.
GOTAFE’s Manager Environment & Animal Industries Skye Rhodes-Mitchell said the initiative bridges the gap between study and practice.
“Students gain vital clinical experience, whilst providing an important service to the local community,” Ms Rhodes-Mitchell said.
GOTAFE is the primary training provider for Vet Nursing qualifications in North-East Victoria, with an established partnership with Charles Sturt University, combining TAFE and University qualifications on campus.
Previously, students would participate in simulated surgeries on campus and experience surgeries at placements and on-the-job training.
GOTAFE Acting CEO Phil Paterson said this new initiative further enhances the education students receive.
“This is a great example of the innovation and excellence in education being driven by GOTAFE’s teachers,” he said.
“Community orginisations such as the Rural City of Wangaratta and animal rescue groups are also benefitting from having an additional option for these surgeries.”
For Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) student Molly Crow, the opportunity to perform surgeries in a learning environment is exciting.
“The course is definitely preparing us for all aspects of vet work, from cleaning all the way through to the monitoring equipment,” she said.
“It’s great knowing that we’re able to help an organisation out, as well as learn at the same time, and it’s good knowing the animals are going into a healthy and happy home.”
GOTAFE plans to expand the surgical program to include dog de-sexing and minor dental procedures in 2026.