This Charles Sturt University veterinary alumni is leading the way in his chosen field – and not only because he was among the first students to graduate with this degree.

Dr Matthew Muir (pictured) was among the inaugural graduates from Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga in 2010 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Veterinary Science.

He said this fills him with a sense of pride and responsibility.

“It’s an honour to represent the high calibre of education and opportunities the university offers, and I am motivated to serve as a role model, showcasing the vast potential a modern veterinary education can unlock for future graduates,” he said.

His desire to study in this field was driven by a love of animals, interest in health sciences and desire to interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

“The versatility of career paths within veterinary science appealed to me, promising a fulfilling and dynamic career,” he said.

His career began in rural Australia and expanded to rural practices in the United Kingdom, working in a mixed animal practice.

He then worked in emergency care in London before returning to Australia and shifting toward Integrative Veterinary Medicine, treating companion and zoo animals.

In 2018, he co-founded Lyka Pet Food, where he designs optimal nutrition products for pets while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

“At Lyka, I have had the unique opportunity to merge my veterinary expertise with my passion for sustainable food development and nutrition,” he said.

“This position has allowed me to contribute significantly to the health and wellbeing of pets, as well as to the environment, by advocating for, and implementing, sustainable practices in the pet food industry.”

Lyka Pet Food recently won the Telstra Best of Business National Sustainability Award from a pool of 22,000 entries across seven categories.

The award recognised the company’s efforts in championing sustainability, especially in regard to animal nutrition and conservation.

Dr Muir said the award was a milestone in showing their dedication to integrating nutrition, companion animal medicine, sustainable agriculture and animal conservation in a way that respects and preserves the environment for future generations.

“This award, focusing on small and medium businesses that are actively reducing their environmental impact, highlights the importance of driving sustainable change for a healthier planet,” he said.

“For us at Lyka, it underscored the significance of every action we take towards sustainability, from sourcing ingredients to our production processes, and how these efforts contribute to a larger goal of ensuring the well-being of our planet.”

Dr Muir said his own career, which has spanned across clinical practice, business leadership and sustainability advocacy, is a testament to the broad career options the Charles Sturt degree offers.

He credits the Charles Sturt veterinary courses for offering cross-disciplinary thinking and encourages all current and future students to maintain a curiosity about the world around you.

“The comprehensive education and hands-on experiences provided by Charles Sturt University have equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in diverse and challenging roles within the veterinary and pet food industries,” he said.

“I encourage others to embrace a wide range of learning opportunities, particularly those that allow for self-directed exploration.

“Your passion and curiosity are invaluable assets as you seek to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field.”