Lianne Hulse has made her mark in an industry where it is difficult for non-professionals to own and operate businesses.
The single mother of two founded Vetwest Animal Hospitals with a young veterinarian after noticing a gap in the market while working part-time at a local veterinary hospital.
The first clinic opened in 1993 on a shoestring budget.
There are now five hospitals that employ 65 people, making it the largest provider of veterinary services in WA.
Ms Hulse was instrumental in the formation of Vets Alliance Pty Ltd, a national alliance of veterinary surgeons.