We must say a very sincere thank you to all our clients new and old whose support was crucial in seeing us come through what is universally recognised as a tough 2009 in good shape. I am particularly pleased to be able to say that rather than just hunker down into survival mode, NZVP has been able to keep progressing several major initiatives which will come to fruition in 2010, bringing significant benefits to both us and our clients. 

The first of these is the establishment of parasitology at our Massey University laboratory. James Connell, who has had 3 years as 2IC in parasitology in Hamilton, is transferring south and will set up our facility. 

I see this move as one of real strategic importance to NZVP and New Zealand’s veterinary profession. In 85 CVs of applicants for our replacement of James in Hamilton, there was absolutely no veterinary parasitology training or experience. 

The funding cuts that parasitology underwent in the 1980s and 90s have now well and truly come back to haunt us. There is a very small group of parasitology expertise that our veterinary profession can call on, and a great proportion of that is nearing retirement. 

James is very fortunate that he will be working amongst the parasitology groups of Massey University and AgResearch. Our very close relationships with these people mean he will rub shoulders with them on a daily basis. In line with our core values of having the interests of the profession and our farming sector at heart, this will ensure we build some much needed expertise in this crucial area and provide a path for new methods to be available.