Meet the compassionate and experienced veterinary team you can trust with your horse's health. At Willinga Park Vet Hospital, our specialists are committed to providing the highest standard of care for your equine partners
Lucas Nolazco, DVM, Msc, Dipl ACVS-LA
Specialist in Equine Surgery
Lucas Nolazco graduated with honours from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he began his veterinary career with a strong foundation in animal health. After completing his initial training in Argentina, he moved to the United States to further specialise in equine surgery. Lucas undertook an equine surgery internship at the renowned Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky, where he gained invaluable hands-on experience.
Following this, he completed a second internship at Washington State University. He continued his advanced training there, staying for an additional three years to complete a residency in Equine Surgery along with a Master of Science in Veterinary Science. His dedication and expertise led him to become a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) after successfully passing the rigorous ACVS board examinations.
Lucas has contributed to the field through published research on topics including minimally invasive surgery and exercise physiology in horses. His academic journey also included a role as a professor of Equine Surgery and Sports Medicine at Ross University School of Veterinary Science, where he mentored the next generation of veterinarians.
After his academic tenure, Lucas moved to Australia, where he worked at a busy private equine hospital in the Hunter Valley region of NSW. In February 2024, he joined the team at Willinga Park Vet Hospital as a Specialist Equine Surgeon.
Lucas enjoys all aspects of equine surgery and sports medicine, but what he values most is being part of the multi-disciplinary team at Willinga Park Vet Hospital, where collaboration and excellence in care are paramount.
Stephanie Givan, VMD, DACVIM (LAIM)
Equine Internal Medicine Specialist
Stephanie Givan is an esteemed Equine Internal Medicine Specialist at Willinga Park Vet Hospital. Born and raised in New York City, Stephanie discovered her passion for horses while trail riding in Upstate New York. She pursued her academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania, where she completed her bachelor’s degree in 2014, followed by her veterinary degree in 2018.
After earning her veterinary degree, Stephanie undertook a rotating internship at a private practice equine hospital in Washington State, further honing her skills in equine medicine. She then completed a residency in equine internal medicine at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, a high-volume referral hospital in Virginia, in 2022. That same year, she successfully passed the second of two ACVIM board examinations, earning her board certification in large animal internal medicine, and becoming a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM).
In 2023, Stephanie joined the Willinga Park Vet Hospital team, bringing her specialised knowledge in neonatology, cardiology, and neuromuscular disease to the practice. Her dedication to advancing the field of equine medicine is evident in her numerous presentations at continuing education seminars for referring veterinarians.
Outside of her professional life, Stephanie enjoys exploring the world with her husband, Joseph, and their dog. She is passionate about rock climbing, reading, and diving, making the most of her free time by embracing new adventures and experiences.
For any enquiries, Stephanie Givan can be reached via email at s.givan@willinga.com.au.
Zazy Walsh, BVSc - Intern Veterinarian
Zazy, of African and Norwegian descent, grew up in Zambia. A passionate polocrosse enthusiast and skilled polo player, Zazy has represented Zambia internationally in polocrosse multiple times before pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Zazy graduated from University of Bristol in 2024 and has completed several equine externships across the UK. While eager to gain experience in all areas of veterinary medicine, Zazy has a particular interest in orthopaedics and surgery.
Ashley Aldrich - Veterinary Nurse
Ashley Aldrich is a highly skilled and compassionate veterinary nurse with a strong background in animal care and medicine. She earned her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing from TAFE in 2022, showcasing her dedication to professional growth and excellence in the field.
With over four years of hands-on experience, Ashley has demonstrated her versatility across various roles. Prior to joining Willinga Park, Ashely spent two years at Milton Village Vets, where she expanded her knowledge of veterinary care. There, she provided comprehensive nursing support, assisted with various medical procedures, and ensured quality care for a range of animal patients.
At Willinga Park, Ashley has made significant contributions as an animal attendant, offering exceptional care to the recipient herd. She also played a key role supporting the Dressage horse team under Jayden Brown, who recently competed in the recent Paris Olympics with Willinga Park Quincy B.
For the past 1.5 years, Ashley has been a vital member of the Willinga Park Vet Hospital team. Her responsibilities span critical areas such as surgical nursing, intensive care unit (ICU) care and medical care. Her commitment to these areas highlights her passion for delivering high-quality veterinary services and ensuring the well-being of the animals in her care.
Outside of work, Ashley enjoys engaging in polocrosse and cattle work with her horses, as well as spending time at the beach with friends.
Reanna Letts – Veterinary Nurse
Reanna grew up in Brisbane and completed her Bachelor of Veterinary Technology at the University of Queensland in 2018, becoming a registered veterinary technician. She then undertook a large animal internship at UQ in 2019 before continuing to work in the university’s equine hospital for two more year
Hanna Timmer - Office Manager
Hanna has been an integral part of the Willinga Park team for the past seven years, where her expertise in administration and property management has been invaluable. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities and ensure smooth operations has made her a key member of the team.
As the Office Manager at Willinga Park Vet Hospital, Hanna oversees the day-to-day administrative functions, ensuring that the hospital runs efficiently. Her strong organisational skills and attention to detail have been essential in maintaining the high standards of care and service at Willinga Park Vet Hospital.
Originally from the Netherlands, Hanna moved to Australia in 2011, bringing with her a Bachelor’s degree in Sport and Health Management from Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen.
Hanna enjoys the outdoor lifestyle with her family—her partner Sandy, their son Billy, and their Kelpie, Ruby. Outside of her professional life, she is passionate about trail riding and loves spending time at the beach, listening to live music, enjoying good food, hiking, and making the most of the outdoors with her family.
For any enquiries, Hanna can be reached via email at h.timmer@willinga.com.au or by phone at 02 44 05 5660.
Mackenzie Prior - Animal Attendant
Mackenzie has been a dedicated member of the Willinga Park team since 2019. Starting with a traineeship through school, Mackenzie quickly proved her passion and skill, leading her to a full-time position. Her commitment to the equine industry is evident in her educational pursuits, having completed a Certificate III in Agriculture and currently studying for a Certificate III in Horse Breeding.
Mackenzie’s love for campdrafting, a sport deeply rooted in Australian heritage, complements her professional work at Willinga Park. Her favourite aspect of working at Willinga Park is the breeding programme. She finds immense joy in watching foals develop from embryos, being born, and growing up, all while playing a hands-on role in their care and training. Witnessing these foals grow and eventually succeed is what drives her passion every day.
Mackenzie plays an important role in the breeding process at the Willinga Park Vet Hospital. Her hands-on experience and growing knowledge in this area contribute to the smooth running of the breeding programme, ensuring that foals receive attentive care from the start.
Jess Woods - Animal Attendant
Jess Woods joined the Willinga Park team in 2022, starting off casually before transitioning to a full-time role. Her passion for horses is evident in her dedication to her studies, as she’s currently working towards a Certificate III in Animal Care. Growing up in Mollymook, Jess developed a strong interest in showjumping and eventing, which she continues to pursue alongside her work at Willinga Park.
Jess’s favourite part of working at Willinga Park is the reproduction side during the breeding season. She finds it incredibly rewarding to be involved in the entire process, from the moment an embryo is flushed and placed into a recipient mare, to witnessing the birth of the foal. Being a part of this process and seeing the foals thrive is what makes her work truly fulfilling.
At the vet hospital, Jess brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm, particularly in the breeding and reproductive care of horses. Her keen attention to detail and eagerness to learn make her a valuable asset to the team, especially during the busy breeding season. Jess’s contribution ensures that every step of the breeding process is handled with care and precision, ultimately supporting the hospital's mission to provide top-quality care for all the horses at Willinga Park.
