The Veterinarians
Tias Muurlink BVSc (HONS) FANZCVS (Equine Surgery)
Registered Specialist in Equine Surgery
Tias graduated in 1988 and has spent most of his career in Equine practice. After several jobs which included time in North Queensland, Victoria and Oakey, he started West Warwick Vet Clinic with Dr. Cathy Marlton. This practice grew to be the predominant practice in the area until the time it was sold it in 2004.
Tias then worked a season for the Scone Vet Hospital before heading to the University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital. Here he consolidated his skills and qualified by examination as a specialist in Equine Surgery. He continued at the University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital as the Head the Equine Centre, ultimately responsible for the care of all horses going through this busy teaching hospital. During this period he also spent time in North America, the UK and Singapore gaining experience.
Tias then returned to Queensland and spent a year at the University of Queensland Veterinary Hospital (Gatton) as a specialist equine surgeon.
In 2013, Tias decided to leave University life and started back in private practice based in Warwick, founding WEV soon after. As well as his private practice work, he has been heavily involved with the ANZCVS. He has recently stepped down from his roles on the Board of Examiners and governing Council of the ANZCVS and as chief examiner. He is also regularly lectures on various equine topics mostly in fields related to Equine Surgery.
Tias also enjoys supporting the equine veterinary community and regularly works with and advises veterinary colleagues both locally and internationally and provides consultancy surgery help to several practices around Australia.
Tias has wide ranging interests in the fields of equine practice. Special interests include surgery and lameness and he also enjoys the challenges of stud work during the breeding season.
The Nursing Team
Chaylee Joe Kong
Chaylee began her nursing career in 2006 working in small and mixed veterinary practices. She has gained the qualification of certificate IV in veterinary nursing and has been with the WEV team since 2012. She enjoys all aspects of nursing, especially in the field of surgical nursing and radiography (X-Ray). Chaylee has a multitude of roles in the practice, from organising the vets, controlling the veterinary pharmacy and caring for all equine patients. She is very passionate about all aspects of equine sport and practice. Outside of work, Chaylee is a keen rider and is particularly fond of barrel racing.
Tamasin Maher
Tamasin joined WEV in 2018. She also is a local girl from Thane and has had worked in admin as well as with horses before joining us. Tamasin is a keen barrel racer and along with her husband Michael are regulars at rodeos around Australia. Tamasin is the main co-ordinator of the practice as well as helping out with nursing with hospitalised cases and in the field
Danielle Assen
Danielle joined the WEV team in 2016 and has recently completed her veterinary nursing qualifications, Cert IV. Danielle has also studied a Bachelor of Applied Science, majoring in Equine studies at the University of Queensland, Gatton. Danielle loves working with animals, but has a particular interest in Equine nursing. Outside of work Danielle and her family breed and train Friesians focusing on classical dressage.
Dan
Dan joined the WEV team in June 2024, bringing a strong passion for equine care and a wealth of hands-on experience from his family’s thoroughbred stud. His early interest in breeding and handling young stock inspired him to dive straight into the family business after completing high school.
In 2023, Dan graduated from the University of Queensland with a dual degree in Agribusiness and Equine Science, equipping him with a solid foundation in both the scientific and operational aspects of equine management.
Outside of work, Dan enjoys playing footy for the local Warwick team and embracing life on the family farm, where his love for agriculture and rural living continues to thrive.
Dan’s dedication and expertise make him a valued member of the WEV team, particularly in areas related to breeding and young horse care.
Odette Kolenich Certificate IV Veterinary Nurse
Odette has been with us now with us since 2016. She comes from a country background and manages to fit in helping us between looking after her two little girls. She recently gained her certificate IV in veterinary nursing. Odette’s cheery personality, her enthusiastic attitude and attention to detail make her an important asset to the WEV team.