About Us

Linda, hailing from rural Australia, transformed a run-down boarding kennel into the esteemed Calabash Kennels and Cattery in Sydney’s Hills District. Her unwavering commitment to excellence over two decades has positioned Calabash as the pinnacle of companion animal boarding facilities, her goal, to create an environment where she would be happy to leave her own pets. Linda’s extensive knowledge, philosophies, and experience have earned her great respect as an esteemed industry leader.

Georgia, the Manager of Calabash Kennels & Cattery, has been working in the animal industry for 8 years and is passionate about animals. Georgia obtained a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and discovered her interest in working with domestic animals. To enhance her knowledge and educate people on animal welfare, she completed her Certificate III in Dog Behaviour & Training and participated in various workshops and courses related to dog training. Georgia owns a three-year-old Australian Shepherd named Winter, and they both enjoy competing in ANKC Scent Work Trials. When Georgia joined Calabash, she realized that she could continue to build an environment where animals are respected, listened to, and nurtured.

Ele has been working in the animal industry for 8 years and is the manager of the Retreat. Her passion for animal care began with volunteering at RSPCA and has since led her to complete a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Certificate III in Companion Animals to gain further knowledge of working with cats and dogs. Her passion has also taken her overseas to Thailand where she worked with an organization called Soi Dogs, which helps rehome street dogs to countries such as America and the UK and contributes to the abolishment of the dog meat trade in Asia. In addition, Ele trekked through the jungles of Sumatra to learn about orangutan conservation and forest preservation efforts in Asia. Her experiences have taught her the importance of being a voice for animals and providing them with the love and care they deserve, which she is able to do at Calabash.

Dani has been working in the animal industry for 10 years and is the Manager of the Lodge. She has always had a passion for animals and knew that being with dogs all day was what she needed. To pursue her passion, Dani completed Animal Study courses at TAFE and two more courses with Canine Health and Wellbeing Academy, becoming certified in Canine Hydrotherapy and Canine Remedial Massage. Dani has a 14-year-old Jack Russell named Spotty, who has been the perfect model for her massage techniques, a 12-year-old cat named PJ, several rabbits, and a 21-year-old Cockatiel named Taz. Dani treats every dog, young and old, that walks through the doors of The Lodge as if they were her own, making sure they have an enjoyable stay and reassuring them that it is a safe place, encouraging them to want to come back again.

Tahlia has been working in the animal industry for 5 years and is the manager of the Cattery. She has completed her Certificate II in Animal Studies and is currently completing her degree in Science at the University of Sydney. She has a passion for wildlife conservation and has volunteered with Sydney Wildlife for 7 years. Tahlia is licensed to rescue birds, possums, raptors, and venomous snakes. At home, she has a menagerie of animals including birds, a lizard, and two dogs. Tahlia’s main priority at Calabash is providing excellent care to all animals, treating them like her own. Her love for animal care and welfare has influenced both her life and career.

Danielle is the Retreat 2IC and has over 25 years of personal experience caring for dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments. She completed a certificate in animal care in 2008 and has a special interest in large/giant breeds that require extra care or attention. Prior to joining Calabash, Danielle spent six years providing walks and home stay services for dogs in their own homes, often caring for elderly dogs with special needs. She has three rescue animals, including a German Shepherd cross, a Kelpie cross, and a domestic shorthair cat. Danielle is passionate about ensuring that every animal in her care feels loved and has the best possible holiday experience while away from their families.

Savannah is the Lodge 2IC and has two four-legged friends at home, Millie and Kelly. Her love for animals led her to pursue a career in animal care. She has a soft spot for smaller breeds and enjoys building one-on-one connections with all boarding guests to ensure their utmost care and happiness while boarding or enjoying Doggy Daycare. Since joining the Calabash team, Savannah has become passionate about working in an environment that prioritizes the health, care, love, safety, and happiness of all clients, regardless of size, age, or breed.

Growing up in the Southern Highlands, Nikita has always been surrounded by animals, including dogs, cats, cows, sheep, and birds. Her 10-year-old King Charles Cavalier, Honey, is her world. In November 2022, Nikita began working with animals and hasn't looked back. Since joining the Calabash team, Nikita has come to realize that animals deserve a 5-star vacation just as much as humans do.

Kasey has been an Animal Attendant at Calabash Kennel and Cattery since October 2022. She started with us shortly after completing her Certificate II in Animal Studies and worked at a Veterinary Hospital one day a week while completing her study. Kasey currently shares her home with her Miniature Schnauzer Charlie and four British Shorthair Cats, Luna, Indigo, Sterling, and Audrey. When not caring for them, she can be found out in the paddock with her four Alpacas, Milo, Kody, Ziggy and Teddy.

Jo is a fantastic member of the Calabash team, and you will see her in either the office or the Cattery. With over 20 years of experience, from vet nursing, showing, training, and breeding dogs, Jo comes with a wealth of knowledge. She currently shows and owns Golden Retrievers and Petite Basset Griffon Vendeen’s.

Raelene is a wonderful member of the Calabash team working in both the office and Cattery. Growing up with many animals around, Raelene has a love and fantastic knowledge for dogs, with over 20 years’ experience. She has bred, trained, and showed her Goldens. She currently owns Golden Retrievers and a French Bulldog.

Pam is our wonderful Calabash Taxi driver. Starting off as a Vet Nurse, she joined the Calabash team in 2006 as an animal attendant. Pam grew up in a Dalmatian household and has owned, bred, shown and trained Dalmatian’s. Pam considers herself fortunate to be able to combine her love of animals with her love of driving all in the one job.