Enriching the lives of animals, people and communities

Apiam Animal Health was established in 2015 when it acquired 12 large veterinary clinics, which had been operating as private regional vet practices for several decades. Their head office is located in Bendigo, where Apiam also operates two vet clinics under the Fur Life Vet brand and its diagnostic and vaccine facility, ACE Laboratory Services.

They incorporate over 260 highly experienced industry-leading veterinarians with expertise across the pig, dairy, feedlot, sheep, poultry, equine, and companion animal sectors; supported by an experienced administration, nursing, technical services and ancillary team.

Apiam is in the process of developing a sustainability plan that includes a Virtual Power Plant that allows solar panels to share excess electricity between sites. They also have a focus on social sustainability with their employees by developing a Mental Health Strategy and a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition. This includes a greater focus on flexible work practices, paid parental leave, and volunteer leave.

The City of Greater Bendigo was the obvious choice when Apiam Animal Health set up its business. “Bendigo is where the business originated due to the large local pig population which is where we started our veterinary services,” says Dr Chris Richards. “Being central in Victoria has enabled easy access to other regions of the state.”

“Until recently it was one and a half hours from an airport to access interstate and overseas travel. The airport development is assisting in our ability to service clients in other states and attract talent to Bendigo.”

“Regional areas are fantastic for growing businesses. They tend to have lower costs of living yet great community facilities and a local community feel. Bendigo, in particular, has excellent schools, sporting and other community facilities.”

“If you are willing to embrace the region and local communities, and network with industry peers, you will have a great opportunity to grow a successful business. Bendigo is a city where everyone says ‘G’day’ on their morning walks! It’s a city that is developing quickly while continuing to respect its heritage and cultural values.”