Frances Hulst

Veterinarian, Taronga Zoo

What are the animals that you work with?

I work with all species within the zoo and also the native wildlife brought to the Wildlife Hospital.   

How long have you been working as a vet?

17 years

How did you get into being a vet as a profession?

I worked for many years in domestic animal practice prior to undertaking a Master’s Degree in Zoo and Wildlife Medicine and Husbandry. I worked as an intern at Taronga zoo whilst studying for this degree and I’ve been here ever since.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Every day brings a new challenge and an opportunity to learn. I use all of my skills as a veterinary scientist as well as a surgeon and physician.

What has been the wildest moment of your career so far?

There have been many exciting encounters with animals as diverse as Grey Nurse Sharks to Crested Porcupines, but nothing beats a successful animal birth.