we’re Revolutionising veterinary care, one patient at a time
At NQ Care, we are proud to be led by a team of three dedicated women who share a passion for veterinary medicine and exceptional patient care.
Our diverse backgrounds equipped us with the expertise to create a welcoming and collaborative referral specialist and emergency hospital clinic that cares for both our patients and their owners wellbeing.
We pride ourselves on creating a supportive and nurturing environment for both our patients and our team members
We understand that your pets are beloved family members, and we prioritise compassionate care in everything we do. Our team is committed to treating each patient with kindness and empathy, ensuring that both pets and their families feel supported throughout their journey.
say hello to
our passionate founders
Kimberley Litster
Head of Referral
CertIV DipVNSurg
Dr Jenna Rickards
Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine
BVSc GradCertSAECC ECVIM-CA
Dr Katy Craig
Head of Emergency and Critical Care
BVSc GradCertSAECC GradCertLT(HE) MANZCVS(ECC)
meet our amazing team / meet our amazing team / meet our amazing team / meet our amazing team / meet our amazing team
meet our
Emergency + Critical Care Vets
Dr Katy Craig
Head of Emergency and Critical Care & Director of People & Culture &
Katy is a JCU graduate and an ANZCVS Member in Emergency and Critical Care, with Graduate Certificate's in Small Animal Emergency & Critical Care and in Learning and Teaching (Higher Education). She is deeply passionate about emergency medicine, clinical education, and mentorship, and plays a key role in developing hospital protocols, training programs, and a culture of continuous improvement. Katy is committed to building a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing team that delivers exceptional care to patients across FNQ
Dr Sophie Huxley
Senior ECC Vet
Sophie graduated from Murdoch University in 2018 and spent three years in general practice before falling in love with Townsville's community and lifestyle. She now focuses on emergency and critical care, recently passing her ECC membership exams in 2024. Outside of work, Sophie enjoys boating, fishing, and spending time with her dogs along the Strand or at the park.
Dr Bek Gale
ECC Vet
Bek graduated from James Cook University in 2019 and spent five years working in small animal GP practice in Townsville before joining the NQ Care team. She is passionate about delivering quality compassionate care to all animals, particularly in high-stress emergency situations. Outside of work, Bek enjoys watching the footy, baking and spending time with her family and fur babies.
Dr Ivana Bilic
ECC Vet
Ivana graduated from JCU in 2019, going on to work in general practice across Far North Queensland. Over her career she has developed a love for emergency medicine as this is where she feels she can provide a lot of help to patients and owners. Outside of work Ivana enjoys hiking, swimming, reading and spending time with her menagerie of pets.
Dr Nicola McKinnon
ECC Vet
Nicola graduated from JCU in 2018 and has worked in equine and mixed animal practices across Queensland. Her passion for small animal emergency and critical care led her to join NQ Care. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, exercising, and exploring beautiful places around Australia.
Dr Tash Parker
ECC Vet
Tash graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from James Cook University in 2020 and brings over 14 years of experience as a veterinary nurse and clinician. She has worked in busy practices, taught surgery to final-year vet students, and is passionate about sharing her knowledge. Outside work, Tash enjoys horse riding, Pilates, and caring for her family and animals.
Dr Kayla Evans
ECC Vet
Kayla graduated from JCU in 2022 and began her career with an emergency and critical care internship at the JCU Veterinary Emergency Centre. She then moved to Perth to take on an emergency clinician role at WAVES, before returning to Queensland to be closer to family. Now based in Townsville with her fiancé, baby daughter, and golden retriever Murphy, Kayla is excited to join NQ Care and continue developing her ECC skills. Outside of work, she enjoys caravanning, beach walks with Murphy, and watching her little girl grow.
Dr Tenaya Penglis
ECC Vet
After graduating from James Cook University, Tenaya moved to
Brisbane and spent 1 year working as a mixed veterinarian in the
Gold Coast hinterland. She then followed her passion for emergency and worked with AES in Brisbane for 2 years as an emergency clinician. Outside of work Tenaya enjoys taking her 2 Aussie shepherds to the beach, adventuring outdoors, reading and spending time with her family and friends.
Brisbane and spent 1 year working as a mixed veterinarian in the
Gold Coast hinterland. She then followed her passion for emergency and worked with AES in Brisbane for 2 years as an emergency clinician. Outside of work Tenaya enjoys taking her 2 Aussie shepherds to the beach, adventuring outdoors, reading and spending time with her family and friends.
Dr Kristie Worden
ECC Vet
Kristie is a compassionate veterinarian with a passion for small animal emergency medicine. After graduating from James Cook University in 2022, she honed her critical skills in a busy Whitsundays practice with no nearby referral options, providing life-saving treatments in challenging situations. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring and traveling with her pets, Mister the cat and Roo the golden retriever, and is excited to join the NQ Care ECC team.
Dr Mikayla Clowes
ECC Vet
After graduating from James Cook University, Mikayla has spent six years working in small animal general practice, developing an interest in internal medicine. She is excited to join the NQ Care team to expand her knowledge and provide compassionate care to the pets and people of Townsville. Outside of work, Mikayla enjoys reading in her catio with her four playful cats.
Dr Liz Potter
ECC Vet
Liz graduated from the University of Queensland in 2023 and spent her first 18 months working in mixed-practice in South East Qld, where she quickly discovered her love for emergency. She is excited to discover what Townsville and Far North QLD has to offer and is looking forward to further developing her skills with NQ Care. Outside of work, Liz enjoys playing netball, watching the footy, reading and spending time with friends and family.
meet our
Emergency + Critical Care Nurses
Nicole St Denis
ECC Head Nurse
Chloe Lewty
ECC Senior Nurse
Chloe is an ECC Veterinary Nurse with extensive experience in specialist and emergent patient care, having worked in top veterinary hospitals in Brisbane and the Gold Coast before returning to Townsville in 2022. She is dedicated to providing gold-standard care and advocating for her patients. Outside of work, Chloe enjoys spending time with her dogs and competing in dog sports.
Alex Myburgh
ECC Nurse
Alex graduated from UQ with a Bachelor of Veterinary Technology and a Bachelor of Wildlife Science in 2022. She has worked in various GP and specialist clinics throughout Brisbane where she found her calling as a Critical Care nurse and has since moved to Townsville with her husband. Outside of work she enjoys hiking, reading, and often travels to Africa to support wildlife conservation programs.
Valentina Fernandez
ECC Nurse
Valentina, a 2024 graduate veterinarian from Argentina, moved to Australia and transitioned into a veterinary nurse role, driven by her deep affection for animals, especially cats. She was drawn to NQ Care because its values of respect, responsibility, and love for animals align with her own. In her free time, Valentina enjoys relaxing at the beach and is excited to contribute to animal care at NQ Care.
Estefania Grassano
ECC Nurse
Estefania, a Veterinarian from Argentina, has been working in emergency veterinary care since graduating in 2021 and is now validating her degree in Australia. She is excited to continue her career at NQ Care and enjoys staying active in her free time. Her beloved pets, Fanta, Soda, and Zisco, will always hold a special place in her heart.
Milla Anderson
ECC Nurse
Milla is a recent graduate veterinary nurse who studied in New Zealand, with a strong passion for animal care and a keen interest in emergency nursing. She is excited to begin her career with NQ Care, where she values the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in urgent situations. Milla finds the most rewarding part of her work is supporting animals and their owners during difficult times. Outside of work, you’ll find her exploring Australia and spending time at the beach.
Shalana Harland
ECC Nurse
Shalana began her nursing career in Townsville in 2019 before moving to Bowen, where she gained exposure to mixed practice nursing. After a short break from the industry, she rediscovered her passion for emergency and critical care. Shalana thrives in the fast-paced, adrenaline-filled environment of ECC and loves being a voice for the animals who can’t speak for themselves. She has a soft spot for Huskies and loves spending time with her own, alongside her husband and their Staffy X. One day, she hopes to add a longhorn cow to the family!
Mia Tait
ECC Nurse
Mia began her veterinary nursing career in Darwin eight years ago, where she spent three years before moving to Singleton, NSW, for a short time. She then returned home to Albury/Wodonga, working in a general practice clinic for three years. After relocating to Townsville, Mia discovered her passion for emergency nursing — and she hasn’t looked back since.
She takes pride in providing gold-standard care, always treating every patient as if they were her own. Outside of work, Mia enjoys camping and walking along the beach.
She takes pride in providing gold-standard care, always treating every patient as if they were her own. Outside of work, Mia enjoys camping and walking along the beach.
Madi Thain
ECC Nurse
Madi is a Townsville girl born and raised who joined the Veterinary industry in 2021. Growing up Madi has always loved animals, ever since the 2009 RSPCA Animal Walk. She is always happy to see any animal and loves learning new skills. She hopes to further her wildlife and ECC carer along the way. Madi has 2 dachshunds, Marlo, and Eli. A Korean Jindo, Ace and a new addition, Winnie, a tuxedo cat who all love to keep her on her toes.
Tia Baratta
ECC Nurse
Tia moved from down south to enjoy the warmer side of QLD and completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2022. She has worked across various clinics in the Lockyer Valley, including ICU work at UQ Gatton. Tia has a special passion for feline care and loves supporting recovering patients with a gentle cuddle. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, meeting new people, and spending time with her two rescue cats and cheeky dogs.
Ed Kowalenko
ECC Nurse
Edward has been a veterinary nurse for four years, with the last two years focused on emergency care in Townsville while completing his veterinary science degree. Starting his journey at age 12, he developed a passion for animal care, which has led to a strong foundation in both general and emergency nursing. In his free time, Edward enjoys playing footy, barbecuing, and sharing his sense of humor to keep the team’s spirits high.
Emily Bowland
ECC Nurse
Emily is a Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse with experience in referral surgery and anaesthesia, currently studying Veterinary Science at JCU. Passionate about surgery and emergency nursing, she has spent the past two years working as an ECC nurse. Outside of work, Emily enjoys walking her dogs, running, and painting.
Lucy Tissot
ECC Nurse
Lucy recently moved to Townsville from Melbourne where she has been a vet nurse for nearly 10 years; 8 of those in specialist and emergency care.
She loves to be busy and enjoys the fast pace of a large specialist hospital and working within a big team. She loves complex cases and making her patients feel comfortable, safe and relaxed in hospital, TLC is always on the cards! Lucy also loves to talk, so naturally, she enjoys teaching junior nurses in clinic and has presented seminars on various nursing topics at conferences over the years. Outside of work you’ll find her at the beach, the gym, or showering her dog Holly and cat Gibbs with endless love.
She loves to be busy and enjoys the fast pace of a large specialist hospital and working within a big team. She loves complex cases and making her patients feel comfortable, safe and relaxed in hospital, TLC is always on the cards! Lucy also loves to talk, so naturally, she enjoys teaching junior nurses in clinic and has presented seminars on various nursing topics at conferences over the years. Outside of work you’ll find her at the beach, the gym, or showering her dog Holly and cat Gibbs with endless love.
Brett Tipper
ECC Nurse
Brett completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Technology at the University of Adelaide and is currently studying a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at James Cook University. Passionate about providing emergency and critical care, Brett is a dedicated ECC nurse with over 7 years of experience. Outside of work, Brett enjoys spending time with his three dogs, playing golf and fishing.
Madi Grant
ECC Nurse
Madi is a dedicated vet nurse with a background in rural mixed practice. She strives to provide exceptional patient care while offering compassionate support to pet owners during some of their most challenging moments. Outside of the clinic you’ll find her outdoors with her two working dogs, chasing cows on horseback or unwinding with a good book.
Tomanu Pett
ECC Nurse
Tomanu is currently a veterinary student at James Cook University. Tomanu’s journey in the veterinary world began when he was in high school and was employed as a kennel hand at a busy vet hospital in Cairns. Tomanu gained an immense appreciation for the job and developed a passion for helping clients and their beloved pets. Outside of the clinic, you can probably find him soaking up the sun by a creek or at the beach. Tomanu also enjoys aqua-scaping and loves to take care of his many fish.
Matt Pescatore
ECC Nurse
Matt has been a veterinary nurse for four years and moved to Townsville to pursue his Veterinary Science degree at JCU. He is particularly keen about emergency and critical care and takes a strong interest in complex medicine cases. Matt is passionate about both large and small animal care and brings a positive energy to the team with his love of chatting and cracking jokes. Outside of work, he enjoys running his kelpie Roscoe, camping, and exploring Northern Queensland.
Kai Moyce
ECC Nurse
Kai is currently a Veterinary student at James Crook University. Kai has always had a deep compassion for all animals but especially Staffies aka land seals. Kai started his journey down in a busy clinic in Sydney where he found a passion in orthopaedics. Outside clinic and University, you can find him either at the gym or patting every land seal on the strand.
Jake Parkins
ECC Nurse
Growing up on a farm in the heart of Victoria’s Yarra Valley sparked Jake’s love for animals from a young age. He has spent the past six years working as a veterinary nurse, primarily in emergency and critical care, where he has developed a passion for helping pets and supporting their families during stressful times. Alongside nursing, Jake is currently in his final year of Veterinary Science at James Cook University and has also completed three previous degrees in animal sciences and biotechnology. He brings a calm, caring nature to every shift and is passionate about providing the best possible care when animals need it most
Kari Johns
ECC Nurse
Kari is a current veterinary student at James Cook University, having moved from Melbourne after completing her Bachelor’s degree. She has worked as an ECC nurse for a year, gaining valuable experience in fast-paced environments. Kari brings compassion and a calm approach to her work. She finds it incredibly rewarding to build meaningful connections while making a positive difference in someone’s daily life. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, spending time outdoors, and being with her Jack Russell and her fluffy cat.
Alex Stolyarova
ECC Nurse
Alex is a recent graduate from The University of Queensland’s Bachelor of Veterinary Technology. Now undertaking a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at JCU, she is discovering her interest in emergency veterinary care. Alex was drawn to NQCare’s passion for support within the veterinary industry extending to clients, patients and team members. In her spare time, Alex is out exploring nature, discovering new camping spots and studying.
meet our
Medicine & Surgery Team
Kim Litster
Head of Referral & Director of Operations
Kim is a highly experienced registered veterinary nurse with over 12 years in clinical practice and holds a Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (Surgery). She leads the referral nursing team at NQ Care, with a strong focus on clinical excellence, patient advocacy, and the development of high-performing nursing teams. Kim is passionate about gold-standard perioperative care, mentoring nurses through advanced clinical skills, and building systems that support both exceptional patient outcomes and a positive, sustainable workplace culture.
Dr Jenna Rickards
Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine & Clinical Director
Jenna is a registered Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine, bringing extensive experience in advanced diagnostics and the management of complex referral cases. A James Cook University graduate, she has a particular interest in gastrointestinal disease, endocrine disorders, and complex medical case workups. Jenna is dedicated to collaborative care, working closely with referring veterinarians to ensure clear communication, continuity of care, and the highest standard of evidence-based medicine for every patient.
Dr Daniel McDonald
Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
Dr Daniel McDonald graduated from James Cook University in 2013 and spent five years working in a large mixed practice in Gympie before relocating to the Sunshine Coast. In 2018, he was passed the examinations to become a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Small Animal Surgery. He completed his internship and residency on the Sunshine Coast where he then passed his European College of Veterinary Surgeons to become a specialist.
Dr Richard Mitchell
Consultant Specialist Surgeon
Richard, a registered specialist in Small Animal Surgery in both Australasia and Europe, graduated from Massey University in 1990 and completed his residency at the University of Bristol in 1998. He established North Coast Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centre in 2006 and recently sold it in 2024. Passionate about orthopaedics and neurosurgery, Richard enjoys surgeries such as fracture repairs and spinal surgeries, while in his free time, he enjoys surfing and rock climbing. He works as a consultant for NQ Care
Chloe Boyd
Referral Nurse
Chloe has been nursing for 11 years in GP & she’s super excited to be joining the referral team. Her favourite part of nursing is surgery and watching patients recover, bond with their veterinary team and go back home to their loving families happy & healthy.
She is originally from NSW but chose a sea change with her partner in 2020 & loves being a Townsville local. She has 3 kelpies and a rainbow chicken to keep her busy, and in her spare time she loves to go to the beach, spend time with friends & family, make handmade pet wear and take plenty of naps with her furfamily.
She is originally from NSW but chose a sea change with her partner in 2020 & loves being a Townsville local. She has 3 kelpies and a rainbow chicken to keep her busy, and in her spare time she loves to go to the beach, spend time with friends & family, make handmade pet wear and take plenty of naps with her furfamily.
Caitlin Schick
Referral Nurse
Caitlin is a qualified Cert IV nurse who has transitioned from general practice to referral. She joined the NQ Care team to expand her knowledge and experience a new working environment while continuing to grow both professionally and personally.
In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys adventurous outings at the beach with her dogs, as well as staying active through running and going to the gym. She is dedicated to enhancing her skills and providing exceptional care in her new role.
In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys adventurous outings at the beach with her dogs, as well as staying active through running and going to the gym. She is dedicated to enhancing her skills and providing exceptional care in her new role.
Linda Osbaldiston
Referral Nurse
With nearly 10 years of experience as a veterinary nurse, Linda has developed a strong foundation in patient care within a mixed general practice setting. She joined the NQ care team to further expand her knowledge and experience in an emergency and referral environment. Outside of work she enjoys running, and spending time with her two dogs, Grace and Odin.
Kat Cook
Referral Nurse
Kat is studying to become a veterinary nurse while working at NQ Care, where she combines her passion for animals with customer service. With over six years of experience as a wildlife carer, focusing on echidnas, she also fosters animals for local rescue groups. Kat is eager to continue developing her skills and make a positive impact on both clients and animals.
Meg Ter Wiel
Referral Nurse
Meg is currently on Mat Leave returning late 2026
Meg is a dedicated vet nurse with a passion for animal care and a warm, compassionate approach to her work. With a background in surgical and anaesthesia veterinary nursing, she finds the most rewarding part of her job is building trust and rapport with her patients, helping them feel safe and comfortable in her care. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time in the sunshine with her Staffy, Goose.
Meg is a dedicated vet nurse with a passion for animal care and a warm, compassionate approach to her work. With a background in surgical and anaesthesia veterinary nursing, she finds the most rewarding part of her job is building trust and rapport with her patients, helping them feel safe and comfortable in her care. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time in the sunshine with her Staffy, Goose.
Tegan Jennings
Referral Nurse
Tegan is a dedicated Veterinary Technician who graduated in 2024, with a background in both rural mixed general practice and equine specialist medicine. She is passionate about providing high-quality care to animals while also creating a positive experience for pet owners. Tegan has a genuine love for animals of all sizes and thrives on building strong connections with both patients and their people. Outside of the clinic, Tegan enjoys exploring the outdoors, often discovering new trails and swimming spots with her dog Lace by her side.
meet our
Intern Team
Dr Michal Nisenblat
Rotating Intern
Michal graduated from James Cook University in 2025. Originally from Adelaide, she relocated to Queensland for university and quickly fell in love with the beautiful surroundings and warm climate.
Michal is very excited to begin her rotating internship this year, with a strong interest in delivering high-quality patient care within a specialist hospital setting. She is particularly looking forward to learning from experienced clinicians and developing her skills across a range of disciplines. Outside of work, Michal enjoys travelling, running, and spending time with friends and family. She also has a kelpie who keeps her busy and active
Michal is very excited to begin her rotating internship this year, with a strong interest in delivering high-quality patient care within a specialist hospital setting. She is particularly looking forward to learning from experienced clinicians and developing her skills across a range of disciplines. Outside of work, Michal enjoys travelling, running, and spending time with friends and family. She also has a kelpie who keeps her busy and active
Dr Holly Ruffles
Rotating Intern
Holly is a 2025 James Cook University graduate, with extensive veterinary industry experience and a particular passion for small animal medicine. Excited to continue her learning, Holly will enjoy looking after the Townsville community and their wonderful pets.
The laidback Townsville lifestyle suits Holly perfectly, sharing her home with four equally laid-back small dogs and a handful of cats. In her free time, Holly enjoys baking, puzzles & spending time with her dogs.
The laidback Townsville lifestyle suits Holly perfectly, sharing her home with four equally laid-back small dogs and a handful of cats. In her free time, Holly enjoys baking, puzzles & spending time with her dogs.
meet our
Visiting Specalists
Dr Tony Read
Ophthalmology Specialist
BVSc(Hons), DVOphthal, DECVO, FANZCVS, FRCVS
Tony Read graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Sydney. After several years in mixed general practice in Tasmania and New South Wales, he commenced specialising in Veterinary Ophthalmology in the United Kingdom. After completing specialist training at the Animal Health Trust, Dr Read ran a referral service in Wimbledon, London before returning to Australia. Based in Adelaide, he established Veterinary Ophthalmic Referrals and the Adelaide Veterinary Specialist and Referral Centre. Dr Read has British, European and Australian specialist qualifications in Veterinary Ophthalmology and is a European and Australian Registered Specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology.
Dr Johann Boone
Dermatology Specialist
BSc(Hon), BVMS, MANZCVS, MVetMed, DipECVD
Dr Johann Boone is a registered Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology and Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Dermatology (ECVD). She completed her residency at the Royal Veterinary College in England and holds a Master of Veterinary Medicine. A Murdoch University graduate (2004), Dr Boone has worked across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK before specialising in dermatology. She now provides specialist dermatology services across Queensland, including regional areas. Her clinical interests include immune-mediated skin diseases and complex ear conditions, alongside a strong focus on education, research, and mentoring within the profession.
meet our
Client Services Department
Celina Chamberlain
Stock Manager + Marketing
Celina, a dedicated mom of two kids and a fur baby, has 22 years of customer service experience and is excited to grow with NQ Care. A homebody who enjoys baking, reading, and spending time with family, she looks forward to becoming a friendly face for customers and contributing to the team’s success.
Ali Cranston
Customer Care Team Leader
Ali enjoys an active lifestyle and loves spending her free time at CrossFit, Pilates, walking The Strand with her dogs, or out fishing. She also runs a small wedding content creation business, allowing her to combine creativity with her passion for meeting new people. She thrives outdoors and is happiest when she's keeping busy.
Kimberly Peacok
Reception
Kimberly’s passion for animal care began in 2014 when she started grooming her dog, Bella, and led her to a professional grooming career in 2017. She ran her own successful pet grooming business and has a special love for Australian birdlife. At home, Kimberly is "owned" by her two pets, Hatchet the Siberian Husky and Frankie the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Maddi Simmons
Reception
With a background of veterinary nursing and foster caring, Maddi has always had a strong passion and commitment for animal care. Now transitioning into a customer service role at NQ Care, driven by her love of helping clients and building meaningful connections. Outside of the clinic, she is a dedicated stable hand and trackwork rider to a local racehorse trainer, feeding her deep-rooted love for work and animals even more. In her little free time, Maddi lives an active life with her own horses and 2 dogs – Walter & Red.
Ella Skelton
Reception
Ella recently moved from New Zealand to Townsville after completing her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing and has previously worked in general practice. Her passion for animals began at a young age and has only continued to grow. She is passionate about providing exceptional patient care while supporting clients with empathy and compassion, and is excited to begin this new chapter with the NQ Care team.
Outside of work, Ella enjoys keeping active, grabbing an iced coffee, and working on her content creation business.
Tessa Walton
Reception
Tessa loves spending her free time outdoors and is always up for an adventure. Whether she's camping, fishing, or racing boats, she enjoys making the most of every opportunity to be out in nature. She is also a passionate animal lover and enjoys being around all kinds of animals.
Amelia Richardson
Reception
Amelia’s passion for animals first began at a young age after attempting to memorise every single breed of dog. Since then it has not only continued to grow but also fuelled her desire to work with animals. Amelia loves meeting new people and strives to provide exceptional customer service. When she isn't working or studying, Amelia enjoys baking, spending time with her friends, and snoozing with her two fur babies: Shaun and Pearl.
meet our
Animal Attendant Team
Paige McLennan
Animal Attendant
Paige is passionate about working in the animal care industry, with experience in doggy daycare and front-of-house roles in veterinary clinics. She graduated high school in 2025 and plans to complete her Certificate II in Animal Care in 2026, with the goal of commencing Veterinary Science in 2027. At NQ Care, Paige is building hands-on experience while contributing to the highest standard of care for every patient. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at Cactus Jack’s and relaxing with her dog, Sox, and her cat, Chloe.
Lili Isbister
Animal Attendant
Lili is a veterinary science student at James Cook University. Originally from Newcastle, where she obtained a certificate II in animal care and dedicated her free time to volunteering with wildlife, she moved to Townsville to pursue her passion for veterinary science. Lili is excited to gain experience working in a clinical and ECC setting at NQ care. When she is not working or studying, she can be found stress baking, rock climbing and running long distances.
Kirsty Pinnell
Animal Attendant
Kirsty initially studied a marine science degree in Tasmania and decided to move to Townsville in 2024 to develop her career through studying Veterinary Science at JCU. Kirsty is a proud dog mum to Monte and Maisy. Kirsty will be working with the NQ Care team alongside her study to help better understand and care for patients.
Kaitlin Keys
Animal Attendant
Kaitlin is currently studying veterinary science at James Cook University, after completing her certificate II in animal care. Kaitlin has always had a great passion for helping animals receive the best quality of life and believes by working at NQ care alongside her studies, she can gain a better understanding of concepts and apply some of her knowledge in a hands-on environment. In her spare time, you can find Kaitlin at the beach either swimming or running with her dogs.
Claire Olsen
Animal Attendant
Want to join the team?
Are you keen to be apart of a team that’s passionate about delivering exceptional care and supporting each other along the way.
At NQ Care, we’re building a workplace where collaboration, growth, and high standards go hand in hand. Whether you’re just starting out or bringing years of experience, you’ll be part of a supportive environment that values your skills, encourages development, and celebrates the impact you make every day.
If youre intrested in joining the team please get in touch. We’re always keen to connect with good people.
Meet Jenna
We are beyond thrilled to introduce our Co-Founder, Clinical Director, and specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine, Dr. Jenna Rickards!
Jenna’s journey in veterinary medicine is nothing short of impressive! After graduating from James Cook University in 2015, she dove headfirst into the world of mixed rural practice, gaining invaluable experience while simultaneously completing a graduate certificate in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care through University of Melbourne.
She then took her skills to the next level with a rotating small animal internship at James Cook University, followed by a rigorous residency in Small Animal Medicine, where she split her time between James Cook and North Coast Veterinary Specialists on the Sunshine Coast.
Since finishing her residency in 2022, Jenna has further refined her skills at a large multi-disciplinary hospital in Sydney. She has authored several research papers and case reports and has presented her work at both local and international conferences, contributing significantly to the field. In 2025 she successfully passed her boards and became a specialist in Internal Medicine with the European College (ECVIM-CA).
With a strong foundation in advanced diagnostic techniques, her expertise includes endoscopy, ultrasound, and advanced imaging. She excels in managing complex medical cases, employing critical thinking to develop effective treatment plans. Known for her clear communication and collaborative approach, Dr. Jenna is passionate about educating both clients and veterinary colleagues, ensuring the highest standards of care for every patient.
Now, she’s back in Townsville, ready to bring her exceptional skills, top-notch service, and boundless passion for animals to our community! Join us in giving a warm welcome to Dr. Jenna Rickards! We can’t wait for you to meet her!
Meet Kimberley
We are so proud to present our Head Nurse of Referral, and Director of Operations – Kimberley Litster!
Kimberley is a practicing registered veterinary nurse of over 12 year’s experience, with over half of that time being spent in referral and specialist hospitals. She is a Certificate IV qualified nurse with a Diploma of Veterinary Nursing specialising in Surgery. Kimberley has presented at the national VNCA Conference, winning awards for her lectures and has hosted CPD events for her local general practice veterinary community.
During her career, Kimberley has managed entire veterinary clinics and led multi-disciplinary specialist teams to success. Kimberley is passionate about offering gold standard care to all our furry patients whilst teaching and supporting the new generation of vets and nurses entering the field.
She is a huge advocate for further learning, empowering nurses and creating longevity for vet nursing careers. At NQ Care, Kimberley is excited to grow a hospital and team from the ground up, setting the standards of practice from the start to provide excellent care to our patients and facilitating an environment of consistent education.
Meet Katy
We’re excited to introduce Dr. Katy, our Head of Emergency and Critical Care and Director of People and Culture at NQ Care, and her bestie Chester!
Katy graduated from James Cook University in 2015 and started her career in mixed practice before discovering her passion for Emergency and Critical Care (ECC). She has gained valuable experience working up and down the eastern coast of Australia. Katy completed a Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care through the University of Melbourne and earned her membership in ECC to the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (MANZCVS) in 2023.
Most recently, she finished a Graduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching (Higher Education) through Swinburne University. She’s passionate about teaching and sharing knowledge, always looking for ways to help others develop their skills.
Katy also has a special interest in working with sled dogs and is the race vet for a number of races across Australia, both on snow and land. She enjoys incorporating rehabilitation into her practice, helping these incredible animals maintain their well-being and perform at their best.
Katy’s vision is to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. She’s committed to building a positive and collaborative culture at NQ Care, where every team member can thrive and contribute to exceptional patient care.
Join us in welcoming Katy and Chester to the team! We hope you grow to love them as much as we already do!