
Anthony Payten BVSc (Hons) MANZCVSc
Veterinarian
Anthony grew up in Cowra in the Central West and graduated from Sydney University in 1999. He has worked in the Lower Hunter predominantly since graduating.
Anthony’s interests are in Small Animal Surgery and Ultrasonography. In 2012, Anthony became a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in the area of Small Animal Surgery. Anthony has a special interest in Small Animal Behaviour. He works closely with our delta accredited trainer to help many of your pets. Outside of work, Anthony enjoys cycling, running and surf life saving.
Anthony and his wife Kelly have three young sons and daughter. They have a much loved cat called Miffy who was adopted as a rescue kitten in Orange, two Labradors Lacy and Big T, and six spoilt chooks.

Kelly Payten BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Kelly grew up locally in Charlestown and studied at Sydney University, graduating in 2006.
She started her first job in Orange NSW, before deciding the cold and the midnight calvings were too severe, and moved back to the warmer weather of Newcastle.
She has since worked locally with small animals. Kelly mainly works at the Charlestown practice.
Kelly’s veterinary interests are ultrasonography, cardiorespiratory medicine as well as soft tissue surgery.
She lives with her husband Anthony, their three sons, daughter, Miffy the cat and Lacy the Labrador. Outside of work she enjoys reading, pilates, running and tennis.
Elyas DVM
Veterinarian
Elyas joined the Belmont clinic at the start of 2023, driven by his lifelong passion for biology and the fascinating world of veterinary science. With a keen interest in internal medicine and soft tissue surgery, Elyas has become an integral part of the team, offering exceptional care to every patient he meets.
A devoted feline enthusiast, Elyas has a soft spot for cats of all kinds and delights in making their visits as stress-free as possible. Renowned for his professionalism, meticulous approach, and unwavering attention to detail, he is committed to delivering the highest standard of veterinary care.
When he’s not in the clinic, Elyas loves nurturing his green thumb in the garden or honing his precision in archery, a perfect blend of patience, focus, and skill that mirrors his work as a vet.
Dr. Alexis Lara-Morales Veterinarian | DVM (Canada) | Experienced Animal Health Specialist
Veterinarian
Dr. Alexis Lara-Morales is a dedicated veterinarian with over 14 years of experience in the field, originally from Chile and now based in Australia. He holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Canada. Throughout his career, Dr. Lara-Morales has developed a well-rounded skill set, excelling in both small and large animal care, including surgery, diagnostics, and preventive healthcare.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills, Dr. Lara-Morales is passionate about a wide range of veterinary fields, including animal dentistry, ophthalmology, dermatology, nutrition, and biosecurity. His expertise spans various aspects of veterinary practice, including performing complex surgical procedures, diagnosing illnesses, and delivering tailored treatment plans for animals of all ages. He is skilled in radiography, ultrasound, and administering anesthesia, ensuring thorough care in pre- and post-operative settings.
Dr. Lara-Morales has extensive experience in providing nutritional guidance, preventive care, and general wellness advice for pets. His approach emphasizes a holistic view of animal health, integrating nutrition with medical treatments to support long-term well-being. Additionally, he has worked with both exotic and domestic animals, gaining insight into the specific needs of different species and breeds.
Having recently joined the Lake Macquarie community and Lake Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Lara-Morales has been deeply touched by the warmth and kindness extended to him and his family. The support from both the team and local residents has made the transition to Australia smooth and rewarding. Dr. Lara-Morales is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the health and welfare of the animals in the community and is excited to continue building strong relationships with both clients and colleagues.
Fluent in Spanish and English, Dr. Lara-Morales is committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to all animals while building strong relationships with clients. His ability to quickly adapt to new situations and his collaborative approach to working with teams make him a versatile and trusted professional in the veterinary field.
Outside of veterinary practice, Dr. Lara-Morales enjoys exploring Australia’s diverse wildlife and culture, having fallen in love with the country during his time living in both Sydney and Wagga Wagga.

