Dr. Paula Williams
BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS MANZCVS
Few careers seem as destined as that of Dr. Paula Williams, whose path into equine medicine was shaped early on. With a nurse for a mother, a farmer for a father, and a lifelong fascination with horses, veterinary medicine was the natural intersection of her passions.
Today, she is one of Queensland’s most respected equine practitioners, bringing more than two decades of international experience to her role at WestVETS Equine Hospital and Reproduction Centre.
A Global Veterinary Journey
Dr. Paula Williams earned her veterinary degree from the University of Liverpool in the UK in 1993. She began her career at the university’s equine hospital before securing a prestigious internship at Rossdales in Newmarket, one of the world’s leading equine practices.
From there, she gained extensive hands-on experience at a busy equine hospital in the Cotswolds, honing her expertise in managing high-performance horses.
What was originally a six-month locum placement in Australia turned into a permanent move, Dr. Paula Williams quickly fell in love with the country and its equine industry. Over the past 20+ years, she has held positions at Oakey Veterinary Hospital and Samford Veterinary Hospital, before joining WestVETS in 2017, where she continues to deliver first- and second-opinion care to a wide range of equine cases.
Clinical Expertise
Dr. Paula Williams’ professional interests reflect her dedication to the performance horse and the complex challenges of equine medicine. Her areas of focus include:
Diagnostic Imaging – with advanced skills in radiology and ultrasound, complemented by her Membership of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (MANZCVS) in Large Animal Radiology.
Musculoskeletal Medicine – investigating and managing lameness and athletic injuries, often collaborating with farriers and physiotherapists to optimize equine performance and recovery.
Internal Medicine & Foal Care – providing expertise in neonatology, dermatology, and complex internal medicine cases.
Her collaborative approach and multidisciplinary mindset make her a trusted partner not only to horse owners but also to colleagues within the veterinary community.
A Passion for the Equine Athlete
One of Dr. Paula Williams’ greatest strengths is her ability to blend science with a practical understanding of equine performance. She is particularly skilled at identifying subtle musculoskeletal issues that can affect an athlete’s ability to perform at its peak.
By working closely with farriers, physiotherapists, and trainers, she ensures that each horse receives a tailored plan that supports both immediate recovery and long-term soundness. This integrated approach reflects her belief that the best veterinary outcomes come from teamwork and open communication across all aspects of equine care.
Commitment to Continuing Education
Veterinary medicine is a constantly evolving field, and Dr. Williams is committed to staying at the forefront of new knowledge and technology. Achieving her Membership in Large Animal Radiology within the ANZCVS in 2018 is a reflection of her dedication to professional growth.
She continues to attend conferences, engage in specialist training, and share her knowledge with colleagues and younger veterinarians. Her enthusiasm for teaching is well known within her team, making her both a mentor and a collaborator in clinical practice.
Beyond the Stethoscope
While deeply committed to veterinary medicine, Dr. Paula Williams embraces life beyond the clinic with equal enthusiasm. An avid scuba diver, traveler, and photographer, she finds balance in exploring the world above and below sea level.
She also enjoys live music, baking, and wine (or gin) tasting, often combining more than one of these passions at once. Her spirited Jack Russell Terrier, Scuba, adds a daily dose of humor and companionship.
Why Dr. Paula Williams Matters
Dr. Paula Williams exemplifies the modern equine veterinarian: globally trained, clinically skilled, and personally invested in the wellbeing of every horse she treats. With her blend of technical expertise and approachable personality, she continues to make a meaningful impact on the equine community in Queensland and beyond.