Barrington Coast Vets

DR EMMA SWILKS

VETERINARIAN

Emma Swilks is a veterinary professional originally based in Gloucester, known for her work in animal care and welfare. With a passion for animals from a young age, Emma pursued her education at Charles Sturt University, where she earned her degree in Veterinary Medicine.

Emma began her career working with various veterinary clinics in Gloucester, where she honed her skills in both clinical and surgical settings. Her keen interest in preventive care and her empathetic approach to patient management have made her a respected figure among colleagues and clients alike.

In addition to her clinical work, Emma is an advocate for continuing education and frequently participates in workshops and seminars to stay updated with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine. She is also involved in community outreach programs aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

Emma’s dedication is evident in her commitment to providing patient care and educating pet owners on best practices for their animals. Her work not only improves the lives of the animals she treats but also enriches the lives of their owners.

When she’s not working, Emma enjoys spending quality time with her family, volunteering at local community events and enjoying the outdoors.

Christina Felty
VETERINARIAN

Christina recently joined the team at Barrington Coast Vets, bringing with her a wealth of international experience and a genuine passion for animal care. Originally from Pennsylvania, USA, she completed her veterinary studies in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2015 before moving to Australia.

Since then, Christina has worked across a range of practices, including Newcastle Equine Centre, a mixed practice in Maffra (Gippsland), and Camvet in Laurieton, before settling on the Mid North Coast. She is a dedicated veterinarian, committed to the wellbeing of all animals, and brings fresh skills and perspectives to the team.



Outside of work, Christina enjoys horse riding and spending time with her much-loved fur family.

Olivia Smith
Vet nurse +

Practice Administration manager

Olivia grew up in the small town of Bulahdelah and made the move to Wingham in 2022. She started her nursing career in Gloucester back in 2020 while also completing her HSC – a true multitasker!

After gaining her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Olivia found her passion for helping animals and people alike

As the Receptionist & Administration Manager at Barrington Coast Vets, Olivia is the friendly face greeting clients at the front counter.

Olivia spends her time with her energetic 3-year-old Koolie, Gary, who’s always up for an adventure. Olivia’s caring nature and love for her work make her a fantastic addition to the team, and she can’t wait to help make your visit as smooth and welcoming as possible!

Lauren Gayton

Vet nurse

Lauren Gayton embarked on her rewarding career as a veterinary nurse in 2002 in Gloucester. With a deep passion for animal care, she dedicated herself to the profession and soon moved to Wollongong, where she lived and worked for 15 years. In 2019, Lauren returned to her roots with her husband and young son, eager to continue her work in a community she loves.

Outside of her professional life, Lauren enjoys spending quality time with her family, which includes two dogs and a cat. Her interests also extend to gardening and exploring the great outdoors, reflecting her love for nature and animals. Lauren’s commitment to veterinary care and her vibrant family life exemplify her nurturing spirit and dedication to both her profession and personal passions.

Rebecca Wise 

vet nurse

With 11 years of experience as a veterinary nurse, I began my career at an Emergency Hospital on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and most recently served as a Senior Nurse at The Eye Clinic for Animals in Sydney. I have a particular passion for anaesthesia, including expertise in ventilated patients, tick paralysis care, general nursing, and reception duties.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my animals, cultivating my love for gardening and houseplant collecting, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors through bushwalking.

Jess Horsburgh
Vet Nurse

Jess joined Barrington Coast Vets after several years working with a local veterinary practice, where she completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2022. She brings a calm, confident, and compassionate approach to her work, making both pets and their owners feel at ease. Jessica has developed special interests in diagnostic imaging and dentistry, and she enjoys applying her skills to ensure the best possible care for every patient.

Outside of the clinic, Jess is an avid animal lover, caring for a diverse menagerie that includes cats, dogs, chickens, horses, and cattle. She is also passionate about photography, capturing the beauty of both animals and the natural world, and she actively contributes to local Landcare projects, reflecting her commitment to the environment and community.

Amber Walters 

vet nurse

Amber is a dedicated veterinary nurse at Barrington Coast Vets, recently completing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. She previously achieved her Certificate III in Animal Studies and brings two years of hands-on nursing experience — including time at the Pet Porpoise Pool — to our team.



Amber is known for her calm, compassionate nature and exceptional patient care. A proud bird enthusiast, she has raised quails and parrots and currently shares her home with two mischievous guinea fowl. When she’s not caring for animals, Amber enjoys giving back to the community through her volunteering with the local Surf Life Saving Club.

Tahnee Sullivan
Student Veterinary Nurse

Tahnee is a dedicated student veterinary nurse currently studying toward her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. She brings valuable experience from the horse world, including campdrafting, and has a strong interest in both small and large animal medicine.

Her versatile skill set means you may see Tahnee assisting in the clinic or accompanying our veterinarians on on-farm visits. Keen to learn and hands-on in her approach, Tahnee enjoys being involved across all areas of veterinary care and is committed to developing her skills while
supporting our patients and clients.

Caity Palmer 

Large Animal Assistant

Caity is a valued member of our large animal team, supporting our mobile veterinary services. Based in Bulahdelah, she has extensive hands-on knowledge and experience working with horses, particularly in campdrafting and training horses alongside bison.

Her strong practical background allows her to assist confidently with handling, procedures, and patient care during on-farm visits. You will often see Caity accompanying our veterinarians on mobile large animal runs, where her calm, capable approach helps ensure safe and efficient
care for both horses and handlers.

Meadow
Resident Clinic Cat

Meadow joined us under extraordinary circumstances—originally found as a severely malnourished stray living in the drains. The team instantly connected with her, and after her impound period, we couldn’t imagine letting her go. She was officially adopted as our resident clinic cat, and she has embraced her role wholeheartedly.

It feels as though Meadow has been with us since day one. Her sassy personality keeps us laughing after long days, while her occasional snuggly sweetness brings comfort and light during challenging moments. Meadow is a true part of our team, reminding us every day that a little fur and mischief can make all the difference.