ABOUT US
Meet the fine folks behind
Kings Road Veterinary Surgery
Discover why we’re the go-to veterinary practice in Townsville
For the love of animals
Founder Dr Chris Pretorius created Kings Road Veterinary Surgery in 2016 to deliver the very best care to pets in the Townsville region and beyond. We have a strong focus on preventive medicine so that our pet patients can live long, healthy lives. However, should your pet become unwell or injured, we have state-of-the-art facilities to diagnose and treat them in-house so they can get back to their happy, healthy selves as quickly as possible.
From routine checkups and vaccinations to complex surgeries, or in times of emergencies or critically ill pets, we are here to help. Our friendly vets, nurses and support team are dedicated to bettering the lives of animals and the humans that love them.
OUR TEAM
Meet your expert team
Dr Melina Ryan
After going back to university as a mature-age student, Dr. Melina graduated from JCU in 2022. She enjoys all aspects of Veterinary Science but has a soft spot for feline medicine. Outside of work, Melina enjoys spending time with her 3 children & 2 cats, as well as live music, dancing and walks down the river or Strand.
Dr Katie Lowe
Dr. Katie graduated from JCU in 2020 and spent three years in mixed practice before completing a rotating internship at a specialist hospital. She has a particular love for internal medicine and is passionate about preventative health care, helping pets stay happy and healthy for as long as possible.
At home, Katie shares her life with her dog, cat, and two cheeky hens. When she’s not caring for patients, she enjoys playing netball, tending to her garden, and getting creative with crafts.
Dr Emma
Dr. Emma was born in Droitwich, England, and has called North Queensland home since the age of three. Growing up surrounded by animals of all kinds, her passion for animal care has been lifelong and naturally led her into veterinary medicine. Emma graduated from James Cook University in 2023 and has since pursued a career focused on compassionate, high-quality veterinary care.
Emma’s favourite part of being a veterinarian is building trust and lasting connections with nervous or anxious dogs, helping them feel safe and comfortable during their visits. She has particular professional interests in diagnostic imaging, palliative and end-of-life care, and animal behaviour, with a strong focus on providing compassionate, patient-centred care for both pets and their owners.
Outside of work, Emma shares her home with two dogs, a blue tongue lizard, and a flock of chickens, continuing her love of animals well beyond the clinic walls. If she is not at home with her menagerie, you can usually find her camping, gardening, or playing video games with her friends.
Dr Rachel
Dr. Rachel graduated from JCU in 2015. Since then she has worked as a small animal vet in the UK and most recently on the Sunshine Coast. She has an interest in small animal dentistry but enjoys all aspects of small animal clinical work.
When not at work, Rachel is enjoying her return to North Queensland. She is kept busy by her 2 boxer dogs and young family.
Chantelle
PRACTICE MANAGER
Maria
Head Nurse
Kerrie
VETERINARY NURSE
Loren
VETERINARY NURSE
Candice
VETERINARY NURSE
Chey
Trainee Nurse
Jessy
Kennel Hand
Tess
Trainee nurse
