Veterinary History (History Society of the South African Veterinary Association)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/6851

Collection of biographies, news articles, curriculum vitae's, obituaries, presentations, etc to highlight and preserve the veterinary history of Southern Africa. It is managed and maintained by a project committee, consisting of The Veterinary History Society of the SA Veterinary Association and personnel of the University of Pretoria.

Subjects

Veterinary biographies	Presentations	Awards
Obituaries	General history	Tributes
Curriculum Vitae	-	VetNews articles

News

For inquiries regarding this collection or items in the collection, please contact Myleen Oosthuizen

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 188

In memoriam: Dr Bruce Irvine-Smith 27 June 1943 – 30 October 2025
Smith , Greg Irvine; Bath, Gareth (2026-02)
Bruce Irvine-Smith was a South African veterinarian and small animal surgeon. Born in Nigel, he was educated at King Edward VII School in Johannesburg and graduated with a BVSc from Onderstepoort, University of Pretoria, in 1965. He co-founded Bryanston Veterinary Hospital in 1970 with his brother Craig and was among the first private practitioners in South Africa to obtain an MMedVet in Small Animal Surgery (1976). He practised full-time until 2015 and played a significant role in developing specialist training and mentorship in private small animal practice. He married Lindsay Grant Stuart in 1969 and had four children.
In memoriam: William Louis Jenkins 29 January 1937 – 26 November 2025
Bath, Gareth (2026-01)
William Louis Jenkins (29 January 1937 – 26 November 2025) was a South African veterinarian and academic. Born in Johannesburg, he qualified with a BVSc from Onderstepoort in 1958 and later obtained MMedVet (1968) and PhD (1970) degrees in Pharmacology. He held senior academic posts at the University of Pretoria and Texas A&M University and later served in senior leadership roles at Louisiana State University, including Dean, Chancellor, and President of the LSU system (1999–2007). He authored approximately 60 scientific articles and received an honorary DVSc from the University of Pretoria in 2000.
In memoriam: Robert Paterson
Lee, Eddie (2026-02)
Robert Paterson was a South African veterinarian who began his veterinary training at Onderstepoort in 1970. After qualifying, he worked briefly as a State Veterinarian in Estcourt before establishing a mixed veterinary practice in Greytown, where he practised for several years. Following an embolism sustained during a canoe race, he was unable to continue in private practice and returned to State veterinary service. He later retired to Howick. Robert was married to Lyne for over 50 years and had two sons, Gareth and John. He was remembered for his strong friendships, humour, and non-materialistic outlook on life
In memoriam: Brian Easton: 28 April 1940 – 17 November 2025
Unknown (2026-01)
Brian Easton (28 April 1940 – 17 November 2025) was a veterinarian. Born in Johannesburg, he matriculated at King Edward VII School and qualified with a BVSc from Onderstepoort in 1964. He began his career in small animal practice in the East Rand and emigrated to Canada in 1976. In Canada, he worked in companion animal practice in Calgary, later establishing his own practice until retirement. He continued assisting at the Cochrane Veterinary Care Clinic and received the ABVMA 35-Year Recognition Award. He also competed in squash at provincial and national level.
In Memoriam: Clive Peter Marwick – Veterinary Biography
Bath, Gareth (2025-12)
Dr Clive Peter Marwick was a highly respected South African veterinarian known for pioneering preventive medicine in dairy farming. He completed his schooling at Jeppe Boys High School, began his tertiary studies at the Pietermaritzburg campus of the University of Natal (1965–1966), and later pursued veterinary science at the University of Pretoria. He practiced in Clocolan, and introduced new methods such as routine herd health monitoring, mastitis testing, embryo transfer, and early use of ultrasound in cattle reproduction. His contributions to veterinary medicine were recognised by RuVASA’s Ricky Wilson Award in 2015 and SAVA’s President’s Award in 2017. Dr Marwick served in many leadership roles in national and international veterinary organisations, including as President of the SAVA from 2007 to 2009. He also served in 2018 as an Executive Member of the African Association of Veterinary Statutory Bodies. He was widely recognised for his vision, dedication, and service to both the veterinary profession and his community.
In Memoriam: Jeanne Giselle Vigeé-Le Brun Mattheus: 30 September 1980 - 11 March 2025
Pettey, Ken (2025-12)
Dr Jeanne Giselle Vigeé-Le Brun Mattheus was born on 30 September 1980 in Bloemfontein. She was a talented veterinarian and artist. She studied agriculture with distinction at the University of the Free State and completed her BVSc at the University of Pretoria. Jeanne was gifted in music and art. She competed in dressage and was a member of the Free State & Northern Cape Junior Equestrian Team. Although she faced serious health challenges during and after her studies, she remained dedicated to her work as a veterinarian. At the time of her passing on 11 March 2025, she had secured an important veterinary position in Hong Kong and was awaiting her visa. She is remembered for her sensitivity, creativity, and love for animals
In Memoriam: Dr Alwyn Venter
van der Merwe, Sherike (2025-11)
Dr Alwyn Venter was a South African wildlife veterinarian known for his compassion, dedication, and warm, lively nature. Born on 2 October 1993, he was a committed professional whose strong work ethic and deep respect for wildlife earned him admiration across the veterinary community. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and brother whose faith shaped his values and relationships. His passing is felt deeply by his family, colleagues, and all who knew him, and his legacy endures through the people and animals he faithfully served
In Memoriam: Dr Paul Bartels (22 February 1956 - 03 July 2025)
Burroughs, Richard (2025-10)
Dr Paul Bartels was a leading South African veterinarian and conservation scientist whose work advanced wildlife reproductive science and biobanking. Trained at Stellenbosch University and the University of Pretoria, he contributed to major institutions including the National Zoo, SANBI, the Smithsonian, and founded the Wildlife Breeding Centre at Pelindaba. His research on cloning and double-headed spermatozoa positioned him as a pioneer in conservation biotechnology. Bartels helped establish the South African Biobank Network and actively supported young conservationists through WESSA. Known for his vision, innovation, and collaborative spirit, he left a lasting impact on wildlife conservation in South Africa and abroad.
In Memoriam: Dr Clive Marwick
Havinga, Lynette (2025-10)
Dr Clive Marwick was a rural, large animal practitioner in the Eastern Free State. He was known as the "father of bovine herd health in SA". Clive has served in various national and international professional organizations, including the South African Veterinary Association, the South African Veterinary Council, the Onderstepoort Veterinary Faculty Board, the World Veterinary Association, and many more. He was also consistently nominated by his colleagues and others to serve on the financial committees of organizations and institutions. Dr Clive served as President of the South African Veterinary Council, where he demonstrated decisive, fair, and principled leadership. He has been deeply committed to the greater good throughout his more than twenty years of working with colleagues. He made people feel seen, heard, and valued, and lived his life as a man of God with quiet dignity, grace, and purpose.
In Memoriam: Dr John Chibase
McCallum, Annalie (2025-11)
Dr Buti John Chibase served 22 years as a veterinarian and was a mentor in the SAVA Veterinary Mentor Programme during 2021 and 2022. Fluent in English, Afrikaans, Sepedi, Setswana, and Sesotho, he improved animal health and welfare, working in wildlife, small-animal, production, and communal farming care. He served over 21 years as a State Veterinarian, gaining strong knowledge of disease control and regulations. He was a member of both SAVA and the Black Veterinary Forum. He mentored Onderstepoort students and junior veterinarians. He also guided CCS veterinarians placed in Mafikeng. A man of deep Christian faith, he inspired others. He married his wife Queen after losing his first wife and his mother to COVID. He died in a car accident in August 2025.
In Memoriam: Dr Kati Plumstead
Vincent, Graham (2025-11)
Dr Kati Plumstead served as a member of the Mowbray Veterinary Clinic team for six years. She was a good clinician with a calm manner and she paid close attention to details and cared deeply for her patients, even making herself available on her phone after hours.
VETERINARY HISTORY SOCIETY: 2019-2024
Gareth; Marsh (Article originally published in VetNews, January 2025, 2025-01)
The article highlights the achievements of the Veterinary History Society (VHS) of South Africa during the period 2019–2024 under the leadership of Gareth Bath and Susan Marsh. It describes the Society’s conversion from a committee to a formal organization, its collaborations with SAVA, ARC-OVR, and the Faculty of Veterinary Science, and its participation in major congresses and webinars. The piece also mentions the digitisation of historic film archives, publication of biographies and obituaries, and establishment of awards recognizing contributions to veterinary history in South Africa.
OP Class of 1976 class reunion
Louw, Graham (2025-01)
The Onderstepoort Veterinary Class of 1976 held their 48th reunion from 11–15 November 2024 at the Fairy Knowe Hotel in Wilderness. Organised by Graham Louw, the event brought together 22 veterinarians and their partners for outdoor activities, social gatherings, and shared memories. Attendees honoured absent classmates and remembered ten who have passed away, parting with plans to reunite for their 50th anniversary in 2026
In memoriam: Margaret Hiza: A Tribute, 9 March 1947 – 17 September 2024
Ardington, Peter (2025-01)
Margaret Hiza was born in New York, USA, on the 9th of March 1947. She finished her veterinary studies in Pennsylvania, in the bovine hospital of the University Veterinary School she met a young South African intern, Peter Ardington. Together, she and her husband, Peter, built a Veterinary Practice and expanded a cattle farming enterprise. They had 2 daughters. She has been a practising veterinarian for 45 years. Every working day, she poured her kindness over animals and the people who owned them. She was disturbed by the severe industrial pollution of the air and water in the Mandeni area. She formed an organisation called ROMP (standing for Reduce Our Mandeni Pollution). ROMP worked with the paper and other industries, the Department of Water Affairs, and other government agencies to make improvements in our air and water quality and ensure compliance with laws. Margaret’s cancer relapsed in 2019, and she died on the 17th of September 2024
In memoriam. Bruce Harold Fivaz: 1946-2025
Bath, Gareth, Gareth (2025-08)
Bruce was born in, the then, Salisbury, Rhodesia, in 1946. In 1964, he proceeded to the University of Natal in Pietermaritzburg before being accepted for the BVSc degree at Onderstepoort from 1966-1969. He then served as Government Veterinary Officer at Rusape, moving to the Diagnostics Section of the Central Veterinary Laboratory (Salisbury), after which he went to private practice with Crispian Trace. In 1983, he moved into a small practice in Hillcrest, Natal, with Lawson Cairns. He joined the Tick Research Unit at Rhodes University in Grahamstown in 1988, where he became Head and Professor until 1993. He was awarded a Master of Science degree by the University of Birmingham (UK) in 1979 and a Doctorate in Philosophy by the Faculty of Science, University of Zimbabwe in 1985. He authored a book, "Tick vector biology: medical and veterinary aspects," in 1992 and published 37 scientific articles, and received the SAVA Research Award in 1992. A multifaceted man, Bruce set up an ostrich farming venture on the Dawson family farm and was the consultant vet for the Malilangwe Conservancy, where he was also involved in breeding buffalo, and was appointed as a Veterinary Consultant to Pfizer in Zimbabwe. He was a talented sportsman and did an epic marathon, cycling from Harare to Cape Town to raise funds for destitute pensioners in Zimbabwe. He was married to Jane Dawson and together they have two daughters, Nicola and Angela. Biography of the .... The biography includes information about his/her education and career, scientific contributions and writings, homages and distinctions.
In memoriam: Hermanus Eduard (Eddie) Scholtz: 1937 - 2024
Clive Marwick (South African Veterinary Association, 2025-01)
This obituary honors the life and legacy of Dr Hermanus Eduard (Eddie) Scholtz (1937–2024), a distinguished South African veterinarian, academic, and agricultural leader. Educated at Onderstepoort, he graduated in 1960 with the Sir Arnold Theiler Medal for Diligence and Merit. He specialized in large animal medicine, beginning his career in private practice in Clocolan and Senekal, and later lectured at the Department of Medicine, Onderstepoort, during the late 1960s. Dr Scholtz went on to shape veterinary pharmaceuticals in South Africa and abroad, holding leadership positions at AS Ruffel Research Unit Terenure, SmithKline Animal Health, Vleissentraal, and Millborrow Animal Health. He contributed to veterinary science through teaching, mentorship, and industry innovation, and was active in the Vets-in-Industry Group. In recognition of his service, he received honorary lifetime membership from the South African Veterinary Association in 1995. Beyond veterinary science, he was a council member of the SA Hereford Society and director of the OVK Agricultural Company. Even after his retirement in 1992, he remained active in farming, producing Herefords, SA Mutton Merino, wheat, and maize. Remembered for his integrity, humour, and dedication, Dr Scholtz’s professional contributions and family legacy continue to inspire future generations.
In Memoriam - Crispian Garth Newbon Trace: 1936 – 2024
Bath, Gareth (2025-01)
The biography includes information about his/her education and career, scientific contributions and writings, honors and distinctions. His primary schooling was in the Western Cape (1945-1949), and his secondary schooling was at Michaelhouse, Natal (1950-1953). He then proceeded to Natal University for a BSc degree (1954-1956) and the University of Pretoria (1957-1961) for the BVSc degree. Cris initially worked for the De Beers Shangani Ranch near Bulawayo (1962-1965) and then at the Abrey, Sugden and Wright mixed practice in Salisbury (1966-1969) before Cris struck out on his own, building the first of his purpose-designed practices in Newlands and Avondale. These were staffed by recent graduates who Cris mentored and encouraged in their development (1969-1976). Cris also later ventured into an airline business, Plett Air, an AI station at Ogies, and a large bakery in Soweto and Johannesburg. The family moved back to Zimbabwe in 1981, where Cris started Pet Aid and the first 24-hour service practice. He established the Nyazengu Private Nature Reserve in the eastern highlands, operating as a trout farm and eco-tourism destination. He also obtained a private pilot licence, used for recreation as well as providing veterinary services. Two holiday homes were built in Mozambique but later lost, and the Nyanzengu farm was confiscated in 2005. He then returned to South Africa where he lived in Simonstown where he investigated and then marketed a novel copper/zinc dermatological regeneration product before retiring to the Helderberg Village.
In memoriam: Tobias George Spies: 1958 – 2024
Schutte, Peet (2025-01)
Tobie earned his BVSc degree in Veterinary Science in 1988, after completing a BSc and BSc Honours in Nature Conservation Management. For nearly two decades, Tobie owned a mixed veterinary practice in Witbank. In 2015, he sold his practice to focus on game farming, a pursuit that also allowed him to engage in wildlife-related veterinary work. In 2018, he returned to the Highveld, where he ran a small-animal and mixed practice in Middelburg for four years. In the last three years of his life, he worked as a rural veterinarian in the Middelburg area, continuing to leave an indelible mark on the community.
OP class of '72, fifty third year reunion
Anonymous (2025-05)
Due to the success of the previous reunions the Class of ’72, under the leadership of Buzz Bowker, recently held a get-together at picturesque Kogel Bay close to Kleinmond in the Western Cape. Thirteen classmates attended with twelve accompanying partners. This was out of an original class of forty-five second years in 1969.
SAVA Awards 2024
SAVA. South African Veterinary Association (South African Veterinary Association, 2025-07)
This article covers South African Veterinary Association members who have been awarded for outstanding service to the veterinary profession, best research output, commendations in recognition of specific achievements or contributions to the veterinary profession, and veterinarians who excelled in applied veterinary practice. A SAVA commendation 2024 was received by Dr Katheryn Kotze for her service in unplanned breeding and sterilization of animals in poor conditions. The SAVA Young Veterinarian of the Year 2024 was presented to Dr Rowan Leeming for his involvement in rhino capturing and translocation, becoming an expert early in his career. Ms Elize Nicholas received SAVA Honorary Associate Life Membership 2024, for her outstanding, dedicated service to veterinary science and the profession as a non-veterinarian. Dr Gareth Zeiler was honoured with the SAVA Research Award 2024 for his internationally acknowledged expertise in anaesthesia and immobilisation.

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