Lillyandra forges a career in Animal Care

From a young age, she was riding horses, mustering cattle, showing livestock, and learning the ways of the land from her Pop Don, who taught her everything she knows about life on the land.

“Ever since I was young, I’ve always had a passion for animals,” Lillyandra said.

“I grew up breeding rabbits, riding and showing horses, mustering cattle and sheep, milking cows - I was just a farm kid”

After facing several personal challenges - including losing multiple close family members, a big footy injury, and becoming a young mum - Lillyandra refocused on her dreams.

She moved from Dubbo, NSW, to Brisbane in 2023 with her partner and young son to start a new chapter, determined to build a career in Animal Care.

About to complete her Certificate III in Animal Care Services (Veterinary Nursing stream) (ACM30122) at TAFE Queensland’s Logan campus, she has already submitted her enrolment for the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) in 2026.

“I’m very career-driven, and being a mum isn’t my only definition. I wanted to get my studies back on track, and TAFE Queensland has made it possible. The teachers understand what’s happening in your life and support you.”

Lillyandra said her teacher, Simone Wood, and support staff, like Indigenous Outcomes Officer Morgan Cotter and Tania Pollard, have been instrumental in helping her balance study, parenting, and personal hardship.

“I’ve had a lot happen - losing family, my son being unwell - but Simone and the team have been incredible. They accommodate understanding in and around Aboriginal culture, sorry business, and the real-life stuff that affects us.”

“They give me extensions when needed and understand what’s going on in my life and continue to encourage me. I’ve never had that kind of support before,” she said.

Her hard work is paying off. Through her TAFE Queensland studies, Lillyandra completed a work placement at WestVETS - Anstead Small Animal Vet and Equine Veterinary Surgery, a small and large animal clinic, and impressed them so much that they offered her a job.

“I’m working there once a week and will move to two days a week next year. I love it - it’s my dream job, and I got it before I even finished my qualification,” she said.

While Lillyandra’s immediate goal is to become a qualified veterinary nurse, her ambitions stretch even further.

She hopes to one day study Veterinary Science and work with animals in Aboriginal communities across Australia, where access to animal care is limited.

“I’d love to go out to the missions and help our mob care for their animals - teach the kids, show them how to look after them, and ensure they get the care they deserve."

"There aren’t many Aboriginal people in this industry, and I want to change that. I wish to inspire other Aboriginal people to strive for their dreams and don’t be shame. Believe in yourself and back yourself,” she said.

For Lillyandra, TAFE Queensland has been more than just a place to study - it’s been a lifeline, offering a pathway to her future and a support network to help her get there.

With her son as her biggest inspiration, Lillyandra’s journey proves you can overcome anything with determination, resilience and courage with the right support.

“TAFE Queensland is the perfect stepping stone. There’s financial help, scholarships, and teachers who genuinely care. If you’ve got a dream, go for it - you’ve got nothing to lose,” concluded Lillyandra.