Meet Dr Warwick Vale: A Lifetime Dedicated to Equine Excellence

Early in his career, Dr Warwick Vale began work as a mixed-practice veterinarian. It did not take long for his passion for equine practice to take priority, inspired by his background in equestrian sport and riding.

His love of horses and the sport has taken Warwick to the highest levels of equestrian competition. His career includes numerous leadership roles and a lifetime of highlights, including working with Equestrian Australia during the Sydney Olympic Games and officiating at Olympic-level competitions around the world.

“I have been lucky to work directly with many of the world’s most famous equestrian legends and champions,” he said. “I have been privileged to officiate at Olympic Games, World Games, Championships and national events.

“Through these experiences, I have seen that success in equestrian sport is determined by many factors. You need skill and talent, passion and determination, and a strong team around you that you both support and are supported by. Character traits such as patience, self-awareness, honesty and integrity are also incredibly important.”

Warwick is widely respected within the equestrian community and is frequently sought out for his expertise as a consulting veterinarian. An esteemed FEI Veterinary Delegate, he upholds the highest international standards and has initiated numerous programs that have strengthened equestrian sport in Australia over the past two decades.

He believes that the key to success lies in a genuine love of horses and the sport, combined with seeking out talented coaches and mentors.

“Seek out and implement the advice of mentors and coaches. Those most successful in our sport – love their horses and love their sport – these loves give them all the motivation and reward that they need be regarded as successful.”

When asked about his proudest achievement over many years as an official and consulting veterinarian, Warwick recalls his time officiating in Indonesia.

“My proudest moment was officiating as the Foreign Veterinary Delegate at the Asian Games Jakarta 2018,” he said. “It was the most rewarding and challenging FEI appointment of my career. The Games were outstanding, the competition was exciting, and the teamwork between officials and veterinarians was both enjoyable and deeply rewarding.

“It meant a great deal to my Indonesian FEI veterinary colleagues to successfully host equestrian events of this scale for the first time. For me, it was particularly meaningful to see the results of mentoring and training a group of highly motivated young local equine veterinarians over the preceding ten years. A major highlight was my role in the design, construction and commissioning of Indonesia’s first operational equine surgical facility and hospital.”

Dr Warwick Vale has been nominated for an Equestrian WA Lifetime Service to the Sport Award, an honour recognising individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to equestrian sport.