We dedicate our lives to Equine Health.
The Rivers Equine Vets prides itself on excellent communication and reliability, focusing on the best possible outcomes for your horse.
Dr. Katrina Swift
BVSc/BVetBio BIntBus
ABOUT KATRINA Katrina grew up in Gold Coast and lived for various years in Chile during her school years. She has a Bachelors degree in International Business and Veterinary Medicine. Through university and initially as a new graduate, Katrina worked in the thoroughbred sales circuit with mentors, Dr Greg Nash and Dr Ross Tietzel in which she gained invaluable knowledge. Soon after graduation, Katrina worked in a predominantly hospital role at Scenic Rim Veterinary Services, undertaking anaesthesia, treating in house horses and working very closely with surgeons Dr Aswin Beck and Dr Dave Ahern. After realising the inside hospital setting was not for her, Katrina briefly moved down south to work in mixed practice and play polocrosse in Victoria. Katrina went on to undertake an equine internship at Newcastle in which she found herself staring out the window at the racetrack next door far too often. Inevitably Katrina naturally followed on to racetrack practice in Newcastle with Dr Graham Doherty and then back home in Gold Coast with Dr Tim Roberts. After buying the practice in Jan 2025, Katrina continues with a special interest in the racing industry and sport horses but has a wide exposure across many equine disciplines. Katrina dabbles in polocrosse, sailing and usually isn’t seen without her best mate Pablo the border collie by her side.
Dr. Katherine Dodd
BVSc/BVetBio BAppSc (Eq)
ABOUT KATHERINE Katherine grew up on the Sunshine Coast and was exposed to horses from a young age mustering on her uncle's cattle property. Katherine initially studied Equine Science at University of Queensland and then decided to take it a step further, travelling down to Charles Sturt University to study Veterinary Science. Katherine has spent the last several years in mixed practice, predominantly equine, in Western Australia. She has a keen interest in sports medicine and rehabilitation as well as reproduction. When not at work you will find her surfing with her husband Asher along with a dog or two in tow.
Dr. Imilla Dunn
BSc (Vet Bio) DVM
ABOUT IMI Dr Imi Dunn is excited to be joining The Rivers Equine Vets team! Having studied in Adelaide, she moved to Mermaid Beach with her three kittens and childhood horse, grateful for sunshine, rainforests, and a more alternative lifestyle. Imi is passionate about all aspects of equine vetting, with a special interest in dentistry, welfare, and all things tiny (hello, minis and foals!). She has completed Levels 1, 2 and 3 of Dr Oliver Liyou's dentistry courses - all going to plan, she will sit her membership exams in 2028. Imi finds most fulfilment by building a strong rapport with clients and their horses. She also enjoys reading, women’s circles and soaking up the sun by the ocean. If you see her on the road, be sure to say hello!
Jessica O'Heaney
LLB GradDipLegalPractice
ABOUT JESSICA Jessica (also known as Jess) grew up on the Sunshine Coast and has had a passion for horses since she was very young. Jess has settled in the beautiful Tweed Valley with her husband, two beautiful kids, three dogs, and four horses. Jess now hopes to be able to pass that love of horses onto her two young children. Jess has been with us at The Rivers Equine Vets (formally known as Baldwin Equine) since 2016. She has a broad range of skills acquired through her IT and Law study at QUT and her early career as a practicing Solicitor. She is also a busy mum and helps run her own family business, so she is excellent at multitasking. Jess looks after The Rivers Equine Vets (formally known as Baldwin Equine) office with her friendly character and organizational talent on Tuesday and Friday and helps manage our ever-changing schedule, and is ready to assist with any of your equine needs.
Peta Devoy
ABOUT PETA Peta is a 6th generation Tweed Valley local. She was born and bred in Murwillumbah, attended Murwillumbah High, and studied nursing at Sydney University. Peta then spent some time living and working in London, where she met her husband. Peta loves living in Murwillumbah with her husband and three children. She especially has an appreciation of the mountains that are constantly changing. Peta’s passions include cooking, the farmers’ markets, gardening, and surrounding herself with positive people. Peta believes that working at The Rivers Equine Vets (formally known as Baldwin Equine) is her perfect blend, drawing on her childhood with horses, nursing, and administration skills. Peta will answer your calls with her friendly voice in the office on Monday and Wednesday.
Keighley Leesonn
ABOUT KEIGHLEY Keighley competes at FEI level dressage and has a keen interest in horse health and welfare. She is the president of the Tweed valley equestrian group and contributes to the local pony club community. Keighley is an integral part of our team keeping us up to date with the show calendars and pony club events.
Ready for us to see your horse?
Please call us during business hours at the number below to request an appointment with us.
We look forward to seeing you soon.