VSSV Special Interest Groups
Bovine Appreciation Group (BAG)
The Bovine Appreciation Group, or BAG as it is affectionately known, is one of the special interest groups within the VSSV. All students in all years are encouraged to join. A BAG committee consisting of 3rd and 4th year students is formed each year.
The main function of the committee is to organise the Thursday night BAG function at the beginning of the year and the Cattle Dinner in second semester. Cattle dinner is always well attended by vets in cattle practice and it is a good opportunity for students and vets to network.
Other events may be organised during the year.
Veterinary Students for Animal Welfare (VSAW)
VSAW is the newest of the special interest groups within the VSSV. It came to life in 2006 in order to raise awareness of animal welfare issues within both the faculty and wider community through education and by facilitating and encouraging student involvement in such matters. Also through various fundraising activities VSAW provides assistance to projects that aim to improve the state of welfare of animals in need of help. Over the past two years VSAW have run an annual staff-student netball match, Valentine’s Day chocograms, chocolate sales throughout the year, and faculty open day stalls.
Smallies
Smallies is the largest of the SIGs, with our focus for those interested in small animals: dogs, cats and pocket pets. We have a five person final year committee plus two representatives in 3rd year and one each in 1st and 2nd year to ensure all levels are catered for. Our events include educational and inspirational seminars, both in Werribee and Parkville, for example Dr Chris Preston, specialist surgeon has held a seminar for us the past few years in March. We also hold an Annual Speakers Night (formerly known as Cocktail Night) held in May where we have 5 courses of drinks and nibbles to accompany each of our 5 guest speakers. We also have tours to the Southern Animal Referral Centre (SARC), Animal Emergency Centre (AEC) and Melbourne Veterinary Referral Centre (MVRC). Each year there is also Smallies merchandise for sale, for example hoodies, mugs, polo shirts and vests. For a nominal membership fee, entry to seminars and tours are free (and include food, drinks and transport where required!) and Annual Speakers Night tickets and merchandise are heavily subsidised. You can contact Smallies at smallies@hotmail.com or speak to your year rep if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, and check out our Smallies group on Facebook.
Wildlife Appreciation Group (WAG) — Saving Life On Earth
The WAG special interest group aims to promote students’ interest in all aspects of wildlife. During the year it runs talks from various vets and other professionals in the industry. This year we also hope to get a reptile handling prac back up and running. The group is also a source of information for wildlife activities occurring outside the University, including training days run by Wildlife Victoria, and helping treat wildlife affected by bushfires.
Many students participate in work experience at shelters and zoos, and some undertake the (optional) Bachelor of Animal Science research year in their chosen area of wildlife. Annually a tour of Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre, a purpose-built veterinary care facility, is organised by WAG. The group also helps promote a fantastic trip to South Africa where students learn about game capture and management.
Horse Appreciation Group (HAG)
The Horse Appreciation Group (HAG) is a group for students who are interested in all types of horses. We offer stall-side seminars in the equine hospital at werribee, giving students the chance to discuss the management of interesting cases in an informal environment. We also give students the opportunity to learn more about eventing by helping out at vet checks, and to learn more about the racing industry at our annual night at the races.
Sheep Appreciation Group (SHAG)
SHAG is one of the more relaxed SIGs. During the year they organise a number of informal gatherings such as a barbecue at the Parkville campus and a Toga Party at Werribee at the beginning of the year.
Porcine Interest Group (PIG)
New group in the making, currently seeking expressions of interest.