Meet the Team

Dr John Montgomery BVSc

Dr John has been working as a veterinarian since he gained his Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Melbourne in 1972.  He built the first veterinary practice in Eden NSW where he worked for many years, before relocating to Sonza.  Again, he established a clinic and quickly developed a loyal clientele.  Dr John has clients extending from as far north as Newcastle, down south to Cooma, east to Batemans Bay and to the west to Albury, as well as locally throughout Canberra, Queanbeyan, Bungendore and the surrounding region.  With over 50 years experience as a mixed practice veterinarian, John is a highly skilled clinician and constantly keeping up to date with the latest advancements by attending seminars and conferences – proof that you can indeed teach an old dog new tricks!

Dr John is a very forthright and honest person.  Our clients value his pragmatic approach and that he works tirelessly to care for his patients and their owners.

Outside of work, Dr John loves spending time judging at obedience trials and conformation shows in the group rings for Utility and Gundogs.  He enjoys working on the family property and breeding horses and dogs with his family.  When not at home, John enjoys going on road trips and camping in his Toyota Landcruiser 76.

Dr Hayden Montgomery BVBio BVSc

Hayden graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and a Bachelor of Veterinary Science from Charles Sturt University in 2021.  The son of Gill & Dr John, Hayden has grown up in the veterinary industry and is eager to now develop his skills as a clinician.  He has an interest in assisted reproductive techniques, breeding methodologies and heritable traits in horses and dogs and is hoping to complete further studies in companion animal theriogenology.  Dr Hayden is also a qualified Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) Assessor.

In his spare time, Hayden enjoys spending time with our horses and dogs, attending dog shows and doing work around the family farm.  Hayden has a strong passion for genetics, bloodline research and other aspects of the dog and horse breeding operations at Sonza.

Gill Montgomery RVN

Certificate IV Qualified Veterinary Nurse

Registered Veterinary Nurse

Gill’s dedication to veterinary nursing shines brightly through her long and illustrious career, which she embarked upon in 1992. Her journey in this field spans over decades, during which she has amassed extensive experience and garnered numerous qualifications, establishing herself as a pillar of support and leadership within her clinic. Gill skillfully balances her management responsibilities with hands-on nursing duties whenever needed, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to the profession.

Her pursuit of professional growth is unwavering, and in 2009, she earned the prestigious title of Accredited Veterinary Nurse. Beyond her clinic roles, Gill’s passion for veterinary nursing extends to her involvement with the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia, where she served with distinction on the Executive Committee. Her leadership was further recognised when she took on the demanding role of National President, not once but twice.

In addition to her professional achievements, Gill leads a fulfilling family life. Her children, Hayden and Tayah, share her deep-seated love for animals, creating a home environment rich with mutual interests and passions. Gill’s enthusiasm for the equine world is another facet of her dynamic life. She is actively involved in breeding Paint Horses and takes part in high-level competitions, showcasing her skills and dedication to her equine interests.

Gill’s multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to both her profession and personal passions paint a picture of a life lived with purpose and enthusiasm, touching the lives of many along the way.

Alex RVN

Certificate IV Qualified Veterinary Nurse

Registered Veterinary Nurse

Ever since she was a child, Alex has harbored a profound and unwavering love for animals, a passion that has significantly shaped her life and career choices. This deep-seated affection for all animals, big and small, led her to embark on a fulfilling journey to become a Veterinary Nurse. Driven by her dedication and commitment, she successfully completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing in early 2021, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Outside of her professional life, Alex leads a vibrant and active lifestyle. She has a variety of hobbies that keep her energised and happy. She loves playing hockey, which not only offers her a way to stay fit but also allows her to enjoy the camaraderie of team sports. Reading is another passion of hers, providing her with an escape into different worlds and ideas. Additionally, Alex finds joy in camping, where she can immerse herself in nature and enjoy the tranquility it offers. Road trips also feature prominently in her leisure activities, giving her the opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories.

As Head Veterinary Nurse of the Sonza team, Alex is filled with enthusiasm and a strong desire to enhance the skills and expand the knowledge of the team. She is incredibly eager to contribute to the team’s efforts and is committed to helping as many animals as possible along the way. Her journey with Sonza signifies the continuation of her lifelong dream, where she can combine her love for animals with her professional ambitions, making a difference one animal at a time.

Erin

Certificate IV Qualified Veterinary Nurse

Veterinary Nurse

Erin joined the Sonza team in 2022 and has embraced her role with enthusiasm and dedication. She is currently studying for her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, which is a significant step forward that aligns perfectly with her lifelong ambition to work in the animal industry. Ever since she was young, Erin has been fascinated by animals and dreamed of a career where she could make a difference in their lives. Her passion is evident in her commitment to advancing her skills and knowledge at Sonza, where she is thrilled to be part of a team that shares her love for animals.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Erin treasures the time she spends with her friends and family. She believes in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and ensures to carve out moments to enjoy with her loved ones. One of her greatest joys is her playful kitten, Kozi, who brings endless laughter and companionship to her life. Whether she’s engaging in playful antics with Kozi or enjoying a quiet evening with family, Erin’s life is filled with love and joy.

Her dedication to both her career and personal life reflects her vibrant and committed nature. She is determined to excel in her studies and contribute meaningfully at Sonza, all while nurturing the important relationships in her life. Erin’s journey in the animal industry is just beginning, but her enthusiasm and commitment promise a bright future.

Belle

Certificate III Animal Studies

Veterinary Nurse

Belle embarked on her journey in veterinary nursing back in 2020 and is currently working towards completing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. Her passion for animals has been a constant throughout her life, with a particular fondness for puppies and a keen interest in canine reproduction. This interest has driven her to deepen her knowledge and skills in the field, as she aims to make a significant impact in the world of veterinary care.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Belle cherishes the time she spends with her partner and her beloved dogs. She is an active participant in dog sports and conformation shows, which provide her with the perfect opportunity to combine her love for dogs with her competitive spirit. These activities not only allow her to bond with her pets but also connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share her enthusiasm for canine activities.

Belle finds great joy in spending time at Sonza, where she interacts with the larger animals that reside there. Among them, the Highland cattle bull named ‘George’ holds a special place in her heart. Her experiences at Sonza further enrich her appreciation for the diverse world of animals and inspire her ongoing commitment to animal welfare and care.

Lydia

Certificate III Animal Studies

Veterinary Nurse

Lydia is a dedicated veterinary nurse from Canada, currently pursuing her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. With a strong passion for exotic animal care and critical care nursing, she brings a wealth of hands-on experience and a global perspective to her work in veterinary medicine.

Since 2018, she has worked across a variety of unique environments, beginning on dairy farms in New Zealand where she developed her large-animal handling skills. She later moved to Australia’s Northern Territory, working as a reptile handler and expanding her expertise in exotic and native wildlife. These diverse roles have shaped her clinical approach, reinforcing her adaptability and commitment to high-quality patient care. She has since returned to medical nursing, where she continues to grow her capabilities in emergency and surgical settings.

Outside of her professional life, she is an avid pickleball competitor, a passionate wildlife photographer, and a keen hiker. Her hobbies reflect her deep appreciation for animals and the natural world, complementing her work in veterinary science.

Kathryn

Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience

Animal Attendant

Kathryn joined the Sonza team in 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a lifelong passion for animals. With a Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience and over ten years working as a professional farrier, she has developed a deep understanding of animal behaviour, welfare, and the importance of a calm, thoughtful approach to handling.

Growing up surrounded by horses and dogs—and spending her younger years showing and breeding cats—Kathryn has always been fascinated by the way animals think and learn. At Sonza, she especially enjoys spending time with the horses and handling the weanlings and yearlings, describing them as “little sponges” eager to absorb new experiences.

Outside of work, Kathryn continues her commitment to animal welfare through fostering dogs and spending time with her own horses and dogs. She feels grateful to be part of a supportive, like-minded team that shares her passion for helping animals thrive.

Janelle

Animal Attendant

 

Tayo

Animal Attendant