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.

D’arcy

Certificate IV Qualified Veterinary Nurse

Veterinary Nurse

As a Veterinary Nurse, D’arcy is passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality care to every patient while supporting their owners through every stage of their pet’s life. She has a particular interest in surgical nursing and enjoy assisting with procedures, monitoring anaesthesia, and caring for patients throughout their surgical journey. Ensuring every animal is safe, comfortable, and well cared for before, during, and after surgery is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.

Having grown up and worked on farms, D’arcy has developed a strong appreciation for animal health and welfare across a variety of species. This hands-on experience has given her a practical, calm approach to nursing and reinforced her passion for providing exceptional care to all animals, big and small.

Outside of work, D’arcy enjoys playing local women’s rugby league, where she has learned the value of teamwork, resilience, and dedication.  These are qualities she brings to her role as a veterinary nurse every day. When not at the clinic or on the field, she enjoys spending time outdoors and with her own animals.

D’arcy feels incredibly fortunate to work in a profession that allows her to combine her love of animals with hands-on patient care and to make a positive difference in the lives of pets and the families who love them.

Sonia

Animal Attendant Manager

With many years of hands‑on experience working closely with dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments, Sonia brings a calm, intuitive presence to her role as Animal Attendant Manager at Sonza Veterinary Clinic. She has a deep understanding of canine behaviour and the vital role that enrichment and socialisation play in helping dogs feel safe, confident, and fulfilled. Her approach blends practical skill with genuine compassion, ensuring every animal in her care receives thoughtful, individualised attention.

At home, Sonia shares her life with her beloved Rhodesian Ridgebacks, who keep her grounded in the joy, humour, and heart that dogs bring to everyday life. Outside of work, she loves baking and spending quality time with her family and these two things reflect her warm, nurturing nature both inside and outside the clinic.

Sonia’s steady leadership, behavioural insight, and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable part of the Sonza team, and a trusted advocate for the wellbeing of every animal who walks through our doors.

Jessica

Degree in Equine Science

Receptionist & Animal Attendant

Growing up in the wide‑open landscapes of country NSW, Jess developed a lifelong passion for horses and dogs.  This passion shaped not only her childhood, but the entire trajectory of her career. From an early age she was the kind of person who could be found at first light feeding horses and spending hours learning everything she could about animal behaviour and care.

Her dedication to the equine industry is genuine and deeply rooted. Jess went on to complete a Degree in Equine Science, building a strong academic foundation that she has since paired with extensive hands‑on experience. Over many years working with racehorses, she has gained a reputation for her calm, capable handling, her keen eye for detail, and her unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of every horse in her care.

Outside of work, Jess’s world remains centred around the animals she loves. She spends her downtime with her horses and dogs, often exploring trails, refining training skills, or simply enjoying quiet moments on the property with her partner. Jess is also a talented leatherworker, crafting handmade leather goods that reflect her appreciation for quality, tradition, and the artistry of working with natural materials. Her leatherwork has become a creative outlet that blends patience, skill, and a deep respect for craftsmanship.

Kayla

Certificate III Animal Care Services

Student Veterinary Nurse & Animal Attendant

Kayla has completed her Certificate III in Animal Care Services and is currently expanding her knowledge through both her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and her Certificate III in Equine Care. Her commitment to ongoing learning reflects her genuine passion for animal health and welfare. She approaches every patient with compassion, patience, and a strong desire to provide high‑quality care, whether she’s assisting with routine procedures, supporting animals through illness, or helping owners navigate important decisions.

At Sonza, Kayla takes great pride in being a steady, reassuring presence for both pets and their families. She has a calm, gentle manner that helps animals feel safe and understood, and she values clear communication, ensuring owners feel informed, supported, and confident throughout every stage of their visit. Her ability to balance empathy with professionalism makes her a trusted point of contact for many clients.

Outside the clinic, Kayla’s lifelong love of horses continues to shape her personal and professional growth. She spends much of her free time riding, training, and caring for her horses, experiences that have deepened her understanding of animal behaviour, trust‑building, and safe, thoughtful handling. This hands‑on equine experience complements her clinical studies, giving her a well‑rounded perspective on animal care across species.

Kayla’s dedication to animal welfare, combined with her genuine warmth, enthusiasm, and commitment to continuous improvement, makes her a valued and respected member of the team.

Tayo

Certificate III Animal Studies

Animal Attendant