Meet Our Team

Dr Mahala Strongway

Lead Veterinary Surgeon – BA BVet (Bio), BVetSci (Hons), MSc

Dr Mahala Strongway is an exceptional veterinarian who we feel incredibly lucky to have on our team. Deeply dedicated and highly skilled, she brings a rare blend of expertise, compassion, and calm confidence to every patient she cares for. With over a decade of experience in emergency and critical care, her return to general practice has been nothing short of a gift to our clinic, our clients, and their pets.

Her areas of special interest include the management of complex and chronic diseases such as diabetes, Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, thyroid disorders, age-related conditions, and challenging skin issues. Mahala applies her vast knowledge with genuine care, ensuring every animal; and every worried family member, feels supported, understood, and guided throughout each stage of diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond her clinical excellence, Mahala brings heart. She values the human–animal bond deeply and it shines through in the way she communicates, comforts, and advocates for her patients. Outside of work, she cherishes life with her two much-loved dogs, Nibbler and Daphne, and navigates that joyful chaos season of being a devoted Mum of two. Her commitment to improving the wellbeing of animals and their people is felt in everything she does, and we are truly honoured to have her as part of our Geelong Vet family.

Dr Marina Mazzoni

Senior Veterinary Surgeon

Dr Marina Mazzoni is an irreplaceable link in our highly respected team of veterinarians with a specialist interest in BOAS and brachycephalic surgery. Her advanced surgical skills, gentle approach, and dedication to improving the quality of life of flat-faced breeds have made her a go-to vet for families across Geelong and the wider region. Within our own team, Marina is deeply valued for her energetic presence, exceptional clinical judgement, and her unwavering commitment to every patient she supports as well as every aspect of our business and team.

Originally from Brazil, Marina has brought her rich cultural background, warmth, and passion for community to our clinic. She has a young family and loves the balance of culture, nature, and coastal lifestyle that our local area offers. Whether she’s in surgery, consulting with a family, or supporting team members, Marina brings a depth of care and professionalism that truly stands out.

Her combination of surgical expertise, empathy, and genuine connection with families makes Marina an incredible asset to our clinic and to the pets of Geelong.

Dr Robyn Blackwell

Veterinary Surgeon

Dr Robyn Blackwell brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to compassionate veterinary care to our team at Geelong Veterinary Hospital.

Originally from a country background and mixed practice, Robyn is now happily settled in Geelong. She graduated from the University of Melbourne in 1994 and spent more than ten years working with both large and small animals before moving to our region. Robyn’s career has included eight years in veterinary emergency medicine, and a return to the world of general practice vet work where her passion for long-term patient care truly shines.

Robyn is dedicated to supporting pets and their families through every stage of life. From welcoming new furry family members, to maintaining their health through the years, and guiding owners with empathy and respect during their pets’ twilight times, Robyn is a highly repsected and appreciated vet. She believes strongly in ethical, patient‑centred care and understands that no two pets, or owners, are the same. Her approach focuses on creating individualised treatment plans that meet each family’s unique needs and lead to the best possible outcomes.

With special interests in toxicology and reproductive medicine, Robyn is especially fond of helping bring new puppies and kittens into the world. She enjoys all aspects of veterinary work, from routine health care to complex medical cases, and she has a particular love for surgery.

Outside of work, Robyn is a devoted mum and shares her home with two beautiful Burmese cats and two mischievous Lhasa Apso dogs, who keep life lively and full of character.

Dr James Vanner

Founding Veterinarian & Practice Owner – BVSc

Dr James Vanner is the heart and history of Geelong Vet: our founding veterinarian, a deeply respected leader, and a formidable clinician with over 40 years of dedication to animal care. His extensive expertise spans both large and small animals, with special interests in surgery, including orthopaedics, as well as reproductive work in dogs and horses. James has shaped the standard of care we are proud to uphold today.

As James begins to transition toward a well-earned retirement, he is thoughtfully passing the torch to the next generation of Geelong Vet clinicians. His legacy lives on through the skills, values, and commitment he has instilled in our team, and we are incredibly grateful that he will continue to offer his wisdom and guidance whenever needed. His presence remains an anchor for our practice.

Beyond the clinic, James is a registered breeder of exceptional German Shorthaired Pointers. These beautiful dogs are known for their versatility in the field, the show ring, or as treasured family companions. He is also a dedicated Angus cattle breeder, committed to producing high-quality livestock that reflects his care and expertise.

A lifelong equestrian and retired polo player, James has always had a profound bond with animals of all kinds. Whether working with horses, dogs, or cattle, his deep respect for their wellbeing is unmistakable. His contribution to veterinary care and to our community is immeasurable, and we are honoured to continue the work he began.