Dr Catherine Harper: A Trailblazing Entrepreneur Shaping the Veterinary Industry in Australia
Since taking over Barossa Veterinary Service (BVS) in 2016, formerly known as PI Jones and Associates, Catherine has scaled the business massively. She opened a third location, and her turnover has shot up five-fold. This growth has led to the creation of 24 new jobs in Nuriootpa, Kapunda, and Tanunda, where her business operates.
But Catherine isn’t just about business growth she’s all about making a real difference in the profession and the local community.
Turning Passion Into Purpose
For Catherine, being a vet isn't just a job. It’s something she’s been passionate about since she was a kid. “I love my profession; it’s a career where a passion meets purpose,” she says. However, Catherine also knows that the veterinary industry has its share of challenges. That's why she’s focused on shaking things up. She sees young women as the future of the profession, especially since 90% of vet graduates are female. For Catherine, this means encouraging women to take charge of their careers by owning businesses, challenging old-school models, and creating workplaces that inspire the next generation.
“I do not know all the solutions, but I know young women are the future of our profession,” Catherine says. “Only by some of us stepping up as business owners, questioning traditional business models, and setting new standards, can we drive real change.”
Building a Community-Focused Business
Since taking over BVS, Catherine’s focus has been on growing the business while staying deeply rooted in the local community. Her team has grown from 11 to 35 employees who share the company’s commitment to compassion, patient care, and community.
BVS doesn’t just talk the talk it walks the walk. Catherine and her team are involved in local causes, partnering with the Lutheran Community Centre to provide pet food donations, sponsoring local sports teams, and even entering the Barossa Christmas Parade. Their entry, “Reindeer Need Check-Ups Too,” won the “Best Float” award last year. It’s this kind of community involvement that has earned BVS a reputation as a trustworthy, client-centered business.
BVS is also the only veterinary service in the area offering after-hours emergency care. This is a game-changer for animals who would otherwise need to travel to Adelaide for urgent treatment, and it’s a huge benefit for the Barossa region.
Looking Ahead: Bigger Plans for BVS
Catherine isn’t stopping anytime soon. She’s planning to build a purpose-built veterinary hospital in Nuriootpa, designed to offer top-tier diagnostic and treatment services. This facility will help reduce the need for long-distance travel for treatment and may even host specialists in the future.
Beyond that, Catherine has plans to roll out mobile pet care services to reach areas outside of Barossa, making it easier for more people to access high-quality veterinary care.
Listen, Learn, and Adapt
When it comes to advice, Catherine’s approach is simple: “Listen to everything and use the parts that work for you.” This mindset has been key to her success. It’s allowed her to learn, adapt, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in her field.
Catherine Harper is a prime example of an entrepreneur who doesn’t just chase success but strives to make a lasting impact. Her work in the veterinary field shows how passion, purpose, and business acumen can come together to build something that serves both animals and communities.
Image Credit: https://www.indailysa.com.au/
