ABOUT
Anyone can join ARVA as long as they are involved in the veterinary industry.
Those who identify as LGBTQIA+ can join as full members whilst those who are Allies are welcome to join as associate members.
Scan or tap the QR code to join.
OUR TEAM
In 2022, ARVA incorporated and formed a board. Get to know who we are, where we're from & what we stand for.
DR KATE TOYER (she/her)
Founder and President
Trans woman, veterinarian, wife, father of 3, practice owner, co founder of ARVA and The Veterinary Kaleidoscope podcast. Kate has been a committee member for 7 years of ANZCVS Surgery chapter after achieving MANZCVS in surgery.
Kate has organised and managed events including Fair Day stall and Sydney Mardi Gras Float as well as developing policies and protocols for LGBTIQA inclusive practice in the veterinary profession.
Kate has also been involved in Transgender health advocacy including participating in training programs for medical students introducing them to transgender health and identities.
DR TARA CASHMAN (she/her)
Founder and Secretary
Queer through a form of social osmosis, Tara is a founding member of ARVA, assisting at Mardi Gras Fair Day stalls and designing, building and delivering the Mardi Gras Floats for the Sydney Parade. Tara has also presented to veterinary students and other veterinary colleagues on diversity and inclusion in the profession.
When not volunteering for ARVA, TVK, the dental chapter of ANZCVS, the AVA dental special interest group, Scouts NSW or Sailability, Tara can be found in her & Kate's small animal vet clinic inside an animal’s mouth. Alternatively she will be at home working as an event manager outside of the profession altogether.
DR CHANNY MCGOWAN (she/they)
Treasurer & Sponsorships Officer
Over a decade in the veterinary industry and now a pet behaviour counsellor, Dr Channy is Naarm (Melbourne) based with their husband and two cats. As an Intersex, Pansexual, Non-binary individual and confident public speaker, Dr Channy is happy to share their lived experience in public forums.
Dr Channy loves nurturing curiosity and creating Allies, and loves all aspects of their work with ARVA.