Dr Madeleine Kelso

2026 Spirit of JCU Award

Regional Manager, Veterinarian & Animal Control  | East Arnhem Regional Council
(Bachelor of Veterinary Science, 2011)

Dr Madeleine Kelso's career reflects an extraordinary commitment to remote Australia, delivering veterinary and public health services across some of the most geographically isolated communities in the country. Based in East Arnhem Land, she leads the East Arnhem Regional Council’s Animal Management Program, overseeing veterinary care across six remote Indigenous communities and advancing a One Health approach that recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental wellbeing.

Since graduating in 2011, Madeleine has dedicated her career to rural and remote mixed veterinary practice, working exclusively in the East Arnhem region since 2017. Her work is defined by both professional excellence and personal commitment, regularly travelling vast distances to deliver essential services and maintaining continuity of care where veterinary access is limited. Her strong community partnerships and ongoing efforts to learn and work within Yolngu Matha cultural contexts underpin this work.

In response to the challenges of distance, Madeleine developed the EARC Veterinary Cabinets initiative, enabling trained local staff to deliver basic veterinary treatment supported by remote consultation. This model has improved animal welfare outcomes and strengthened community capacity, earning national recognition.

Beyond service delivery, Madeleine works with schools, health services and ranger groups to address zoonotic disease risks and promote culturally appropriate One Health and animal education.

Her work reflects a deep commitment to community, strengthening animal and human health outcomes while supporting the resilience of remote communities across northern Australia.

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn.