Dr Michelle Dalli started working at NRVH over 15 years ago and has recently taken over the clinic from Dr Karen Hedberg.

Michelle graduated from the University of Sydney in 2005. Her interests in exotic pets, native animals and in particular reptiles started long before she graduated. Michelle has gained vast experience both in Australia and abroad working with small animals and exotics.

Over the years Michelle has built up a loyal clientele at NRVH and with her experience working at North Shore Specialist Animal Hospital in the exotics department, her client base has extended to exotic pets of all shapes and sizes. Michelle has over the years taken on more Orthopaedic work adding to her already vast surgical repertoire. A talented and skilled small animal surgeon, Michelle is always in high demand. The staff at NRVH reap the rewards of Michelle’s knowledge as she is always happy to educate and share her experience with both New Grads and Nurses.

Michelle is passionate about environmental issues and native wildlife. She also enjoys travel, hiking, gardening….generally anything outdoors. Michelle shares her life with Duncan and Connie the Deerhound's, Bertie her Griffon Bruxellois and multiple exotics and wildlife.

Dr Karen Hedberg established the North Richmond Veterinary Hospital in 1976. Affectionately known as ‘Boss’ to all the staff both past and current, Karen has built an enormous client base not only Sydney wide, but throughout the state and even seeing interstate clients. Karen has been a great teacher and mentor to many vets and is always available to share her wealth of knowledge and experience. An Author and Artist, Karen wrote and illustrated the well known book – The Dog Owner’s Manual – which can be found in many clients bookshelf. Karen’s involvement in the world of pedigree dogs covers breeding, genetic conditions and establishing breed health improvement schemes. Karen’s interests outside of the clinic include painting, art, wildlife, breeding and exhibiting of French Bulldogs and in the pat German Shepherd Dogs. Karen shares her life with seven French Bulldogs (Beaches, Daisy, Sassy, Patsy, Tosca, Tinks and Cossie) and Betty the German Shepherd Dog.

Dr Mami Nomiya graduated in 1998 from the Nihon University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine in Japan. She completed the American Veterinary Medical Association Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates program in 2013.

For the first 10 years of her career, Mami worked as a small animal vet in Tokyo Japan, where she gained vast experience with small animals.

Mami joined NRVH in 2018 after working with Dr Michelle Dalli for 10 years at Sydney Exotics and Rabbit Vets at North Shore Vet Specialist Centre. Mami loves Australian wildlife and treats them occasionally.

In her spare time, Mami loves to travel Australia and abroad with her family. Her other interests include snowboarding and skiing.

Michelle has been a crucial part of NRVH since 2009. She has a Certificate IV Vet Nursing and a Diploma of Direct Marketing.

She is the Mother Hen of our clinic who has other staff members frequently looking up to her and getting advice. She is always making sure that we are all ok and coping with the busy day to day duties of our fast-paced hospital.

Michelle has an extensive knowledge of reproduction and all things breeding, whelping and neo natal care. She maintains our clinic protocols and is an all-round amazing asset to our hospital.

Michelle’s interests are her three sons and watching them play rugby. Michelle shares her life with four French Bulldogs (Polly, Finch, Scout and Luna), two South African Boerboels (Jakka and Cherry), Alfie the Staffordshire Bullterrier and Landers the Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog.

Kirstie takes everything in her stride and her bubbly personality shines through whether nursing, tending to reception or triaging incoming patients. Kirstie has been with NRVH since 2015, during that time gaining her Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing. Her particular areas of interest within the job are orthopaedics and reproduction. Her organisational skills and commitment to patient care are greatly valued in a highly busy practice. In her spare time, Kirstie enjoys all outdoor activities including fishing and camping and is also a keen on sports. Kirsty shares her life with her Labrador Leo.

Sam has been nursing for 6 years and has been with NRVH since 2015. Sam holds her Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing as well as Equine Veterinary Nursing and Diploma of Performance Horse Industry. A keen interest in reproduction, Sam loves nothing more than getting her hands into a caesarean…the absolute favourite part of her job. Patient care is very important to Sam and she has a very strong commitment to hospital patient care, particularly medical cases. Sam’s other interests include hiking, bushwalking and family time with her son. Sam shares her life with her Great Dane Sapphire, Maltese Toren, two cats and a python.

Our enthusiastic and forever smiling nurse April has been nursing at NRVH since 2013. April has a wonderful rapport with our Clients and Patients, never forgetting a name or face. April has a great interest in critical care nursing and also neonate care. When not spending her long hours at NRVH, April enjoys wakeboarding, spending time with her family and going hiking and bushwalks with her beloved dog Sasha.

Officially starting at NRVH in August 2019, Patricia (Patty) has taken on the role of Book Keeper, however, Patty’s involvement with NRVH started many years ago. Being a regular fill in for other staff over the years, her experience in the Clinic Environment is next to none. Much loved by all the staff, Patty brings a bright smile and great energy to the team. Patty’s interests include camping, 4WD with the family and her Staffordshire Bullterrier, Freddy.

Cristin came to NRVH in 2008 whilst still at high school. An enthusiastic and skilled nurse, Cristin enjoys areas in medicine, pathology and client interaction and education.

Outside of the clinic, Cristin is dedicated Mum to the beautiful Ivy and is committed to family time at the park, playground and Hawkesbury River. A keen baker and cook, Cristin always has something yummy to tempt the staff. Cristin shares her life with Layla the South African Boerboel.

Daniel has been part of our team since 2014 whilst completing his Cert IV in veterinary nursing. A hardworking team member, Daniel is the quiet achiever and uses his strength to his advantage being able to manage any animal in sight from little kittens to Great Danes. Other interests include Tae Kwon Doe, Martial Arts, cars, sports and reading. Daniel shares his life with his two Dachshunds – Dexter and Walter.

Iman joined the NRVH team in 2020 and is Michelle’s personal scribe, as well as one of our hard-working nursing team. Coming from a childcare background, Iman picked up the veterinary industry in no time! Initially only planning on working as a scribe, we encouraged Iman to complete her Certificate IV Veterinary nursing as she showed such an aptitude to nursing. Iman is extremely kind and empathetic, every patient who comes her way is loved. Iman has a particular interest in reproduction, radiology and ultrasonography, all of which she gets plenty of experience in while working alongside Michelle each shift.

When not at work, Iman loves spending time relaxing at the beach, spending time with her family and friends. Iman is owned by a gang of snags- 6 mini dachshunds run Iman’s house! She also has a pet budgie who overseas everybody.

Sarah joined the NRVH team in 2020 fresh from school, initially joining us as a TAFE vet nursing placement student. We very quickly realised that we never wanted Sarah to leave, and offered her a place on our nursing team which she happily accepted! Since then Sarah has completed her Certificate IV in veterinary nursing, and has grown into an exceptionally competent nurse and an integral part of our team. Sarah has a strong passion for our exotic patients, in particular the surgical cases, and can often be found giving plenty love to all the bunnies that come through our exotics ward. Her love isn’t just isolated to the bouncy visitors, many cuddles are also shared with all our patients. Sarah’s favourite part of nursing is watching our patients improve whilst they are in hospital, and the feeling that we are truly helping them.

Outside of work Sarah loves to stay active, enjoying regular walks, gym sessions and beach trips. At home Sarah is much loved by her Flemish Giant rabbit Olive, and her chihuahua x Macey. Sarah is dedicated, loving, empathetic and compassionate, making her a joy to work with and a much loved member of our team.

Alyse joined the NRVH team in 2019 after completing her Vet Nursing Certificate IV placement with our team in previous years. Describing herself as the clinic clown, we can confirm this is an accurate description which keeps everyone smiling! All the staff love working a shift with Alyse, not only is she hilarious, but she is also a dedicated, warm hearted, compassionate nurse who we couldn’t be without. With a strong passion for exotics, in particular rabbits, Alyse always ensures all of her patients receive top class love and care while they are in hospital.

Outside of work Alyse loves camping, showing her cows and enjoying a cold bevvy! Alyse shares her home and her heart with a multitude of animals- cows, sheep, chickens, bunnies, Fluff the Axolotl, Ziwi the bird and her beautiful cattle dog Ziva. Self-described as a top chick, which we have to agree with, we are so glad to have Alyse as part of our veterinary family!

Maddie joined the NRVH team at the end of 2022 as part of our amazing nurse team, and has fast become a much valued member of our of our clinic. Maddie completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2022. Always smiling, and with a true love of all animals big and small, Maddie always ensures our patients feel comfortable and loved. Maddie has a keen passion for reproduction, pathology, exotics and emergency nursing, making her a brilliant allrounder who is comfortable in all areas of the clinic.

Outside of work Maddie loves spending time in the great outdoors, and in particular loves camping in remote locations- the less phone reception the better! Maddie is loved by her Mini Dachshund Alfie, her 2 kelpies, a ragdoll and her gorgeous Eclectus parrot. Maddie is a dedicated, compassionate nurse who is truly a joy to work with, and we are so pleased she joined our team!

Angie joined the NRVH team in July 2022 as a work placement student volunteering on Saturdays. Being fortunate enough to grow up on thousands of acres, Angie has always worked with animals in some form, and comes to us from a long-standing equine nursing background, having worked at some of the best equine clinics in Australia. Angie only intended to gain some small animal nursing experience but quicky found she had a very keen interest in the small animal veterinary world, and has now permanently made the swap to us in February 2023! Angie is thoroughly enjoying learning all the new skills that come along with small animal nursing, and has developed a particular interest in reproduction and our beautiful CT machine.

Outside of work Angie enjoys relaxing with friends and family, loving nothing more than spending quiet time at home with a nice wine and a good movie. Her furry family include 7 horses, 3 dogs, 3 cats, and also has some chickens and birds. With her warm, friendly, inquisitive nature, we are so happy to have welcomed Angie to our nursing team!

Sadly our dear Stanley passed away late 2023. He still remains in all our hearts, and will always remain the boss of the clinic!

Our beloved Stanley (The Boss), the Exotic Short Hair Cat. He’s been with us for many, many years….no-one really knows how long. Stanley can be found anywhere in the clinic, showing up at the most inopportune moments (usually involving a GSD who really doesn’t like cats) Usually Stanley’s favourite spot is on the reception desk, reclined, without a care in the world or (this has to be seen to be believed) you might find our beautiful old friend lying by the side of a sick or critical patient. He really has a knack for seeking out the patients who need his company most. Probably his most endearing quality.

Karien joined the NRVH team in October 2022, and is one of our exceptionally hard working reception team. Always smiling and ever organized, Karien has become much loved by both our clients and the whole NRVH team- we couldn't imagine reception without her. Karien enjoys all aspects of her role, but she has a particular passion for exotic pets and wildlife, in particular ferrets, reptiles and native birds.

When not at work, Karien loves all things outdoors! Camping, deep sea diving, snorkeling or bush-walking, she is at her happiest when out exploring the world around her. Karien also has a strong passion for child development and education, successfully home schooling 4 boys; which to us gives her a god like status and really highlights her amazing organizational skills and endless patience. At home Karien is loved by her GSP Diesel, Kamo the Koolie x and her 2 ferrets Buddy and Girly. In the past she has also had snakes, bearded dragons, chinchillas and more- clearly a reptile lover! Karien loves the team she works with, and has great respect for all that we accomplish. We can firmly say that the feeling is mutual, we just love having Karien on our team!

Andrea joined NRVH in December 2022, and is part of our amazing reception team! Always happy and keen to help, Andrea has quickly become a much loved team member amongst our staff and clients. Despite not having a veterinary background, Andrea has taken to clinic life in no time and is always keen to learn whatever she can! She has a strong passion for our feathered friends, having a keen interest in wildlife and their rehabilitation.

Outside of work Andrea loves to spends time training her animals, as well as plenty of family time to. Andrea shares her life with many furred and feathered family members, as well as humans! She has 3 dogs, Bridgette, Jessie and Kaos, as well as 2 horses, 4 parrots, 2 quails and has recently adopted the obligatory clinic kitten from one of our recent rescue litters! With her warm, compassionate and friendly nature, Andrea is a much-loved member of our team.

Natalie joined the NRVH reception team in early 2021, coming from a long veterinary background having joined the industry in 2003. With her warm, loving personality and her big heart, Nat is a favorite amongst both staff and clients. Nat has a passion for exotic patients, wildlife and those animals which have special needs, many of which have found a loving home with Nat. Outside of work Nat enjoys spending time with her family, both 2 legged and 4, as well as early morning dog walks and swimming. Nat has quite an extensive animal tribe! She shares her heart with Kevin the GRT, Charlie the Frenchie, Archie the Pug, Ellie the Border Collie, Black the Cat, Bindi the Cat, Zoey the Eclectus, DB the Conure, Kenny the Canary, Euchi the Alexandrian, Lagatha the Bearded Dragon, Iggy the Lizard, Trevor the Snake and last but not least, Wilson the pig! Nat loves what she does, and loves working with our amazing team, and it is safe to say the feeling is mutual amongst all team members.

Michelle joined the NRVH reception team in early 2024, joining the veterinary dark side after many years in the human medical reception field. Since joining our team, Shelly has developed a keen interest in reptiles, as well as being a crucial step in assisting the sick and injured animals that make their way through our doors. Outside of work, Shelly enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, food and skydiving! At home, Shelly is loved by her daughter, and their beautiful little Cavoodle Rosie. Shelly has loved the transition into the veterinary field, no 2 days are ever the same. With her bright personality and witty sense of humor, Shelly has become a much-loved member of our team!

Jade joined the NRVH team in our brand-new clinic in January 2023 as a kennel hand, and I think the whole team agrees when we say we can’t imagine life without her! Having just left school, we hope she stays with us forever. Jade is exceptionally hard working, compassionate, always happy, smiling and ready to lend a hand however she can. Her love of all animals shines through, all our patients love having a cuddle with Jade. Since joining us, Jade has developed an interest in reproduction, surgery, radiology and pathology. She also takes exceptionally good care of our clinic fish, in particular our marine tank. Jade takes great pride in her work, ensuring the hospital is always spotless and all our patients are feeling loved and comfortable.

Outside of work she loves to travel, spend time with her friends, go out clubbing and enjoying music. At home Jade is loved by 2 kelpies, a cat named Tinkerbell and her own fish. Jade says that joining our team was the best decision she could have made, and we couldn’t agree more!