Jessica Hill, Cert IV VN, RVN, AVN, Cert IV T&A

Jessica is the Head Nurse of Surgery and is a Theatre Coordinator at Lort Smith, Melbourne’s Animal Hospital. 

Jessica worked in specialty practice for 12 of her 19 years as a veterinary nurse. Prior to referral nursing Jess worked overseas in Vancouver for 12 months as a Veterinary Technician. Before Canada Jess worked at a General Practice hospital in Melbourne for almost 4 years. 

Jess completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing through Box Hill Institute of TAFE and has since become AVNAT (Australian Vet Nurse and Technician) registered as well as an AVN (Accredited Veterinary Nurse). 

Jessica became a volunteer for the VNCA (Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia) in 2021 and has since become a VNCA Board Member and Vice Chair of the Victorian Division. Jess underwent additional leadership training through the veterinary specific Lincoln Institute, which she is very passionate about. 

In 2023, Jess attained her Certificate IV in Training & Assessment, which has allowed her to train Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse students at Melbourne Polytechnic. 

Jess presented at the National Scientific Conference in Kuala Lumpur in 2023, which was a career highlight. Jess has since presented at VetWorks and the Tasmanian AVA Conference. Jessica loves encouraging veterinary nurse education and is eager to promote the same high standard worldwide within our profession.

Jess recently lost her almost 14-year-old Boston Terrier, Maple, who was a well-loved staff member across several veterinary hospitals. She is now mum to a ridiculous adopted one-eyed French Bulldog named Frida. 

Jess enjoys going to the Australian Open each year and watching the West Coast Eagles play in Melbourne. Jessica lives a cruelty-free lifestyle and promotes kindness to animals.