Square Peg-Round Hole

John Al Maxwell graduated as a veterinary surgeon from the University of Sydney in 1964, and since then he has never been engaged full-time in private rural practice. In 1966, he established the Katanning Regional Veterinary Hospital in the South-West of Western Australia.

The practice services both companion animals (Dogs, Cats and Horses) and economic livestock (Sheep, Cattle and Pigs). During his career he has specialized firstly with sheep, then cattle and horses and now in general practice.

He has published extensively and acquired a number of higher qualifications, including and masters in small animal medicine and surgery, membership of the Australian college of veterinary scientist in surgery of the horse and in 2006 was awarded a PhD for a thesis on Rural Practice and Sheep Research and in 2018 was awarded a DVMSC for a thesis on the history of veterinary services in Australia.

Dr. Maxwell has been married for 57 years to Julie Ann Maxwell and together they have three children, six grandchildren, and one great grandchild.