About
the Team
Anthony Ramsey
PIAA CEO & Company Secretary
With over 20 years in Sydney’s pet and aquarium scene, I lead PIAA as CEO—driving operations, governance, and member support.
I’m passionate about pets and policy, advocating for fair regulation that protects both our rights and animal welfare while minimising trade restrictions. I’m committed to protecting the rights of Australians to keep, breed, and sell pets.
Outside work, you’ll find me beekeeping, gardening, and collecting rare plants, fossils, crystals and minerals.
Tim Scotcher
President & National Director
Pets have always been part of my life—from birds to fish, dogs, and even a goat. I started in animal health with a Bayer traineeship in 1996, returning to the industry in 2008 after roles at Mars. Since 2020, I’ve been with Cenversa (Central Pet). I’m proud to work with our board to support members and champion responsible pet ownership. Outside work, I enjoy sports, time with family and friends, and our rescue blue heeler cross, Bodhi.
Shasta Mendez
Boarding & Pet Services Director
Shasta Mendez is the Operational Supervisor for Victoria at PetPro360, managing multi-site operations for Pet Resorts Australia. With over 20 years in veterinary medicine and animal care, she has worked across the US, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Australia. Formerly the Surgery Coordinator at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary Hospital and an Anaesthetic Technician at Massey University and the University of Bern, Shasta holds a degree from Cosumnes River College (California). Her expertise spans anaesthesia, critical care, and rehabilitation, supported by a strong commitment to animal welfare and operational excellence.
Jo Marsden
Pet Grooming Director
I’m a Master Groomer and small business owner with 40 years in pet care. Starting as a kennel hand at 14, I became a vet nurse, then a cat groomer in 1993. In 2003, I opened my first grooming salon and one of Australia’s earliest dog day care centres.
Now, I run Get Grooming in Allambie Heights and distribute Delta Grooming Scissors globally. During lockdowns, I advocated for groomers as essential workers. I’m passionate about animal welfare and supporting the grooming industry.
Barry Tonissen
Suppliers & Manufacturers Director
I’m the National Sales Manager, Companion Animal at Boehringer-Ingelheim Animal Health. With 22 years in the industry, I’ve valued the camaraderie and passion of this space and was proud to receive the Kevin Pakes perpetual achievement award.
I look forward to representing PIAA members, strengthening our voice across the industry, and supporting responsible pet ownership.
I live in Kinglake, VIC, with 3 horses, 8 chickens, 2 cats, and 2 dogs.
Paul Talbot
Aquatics Director
I’ve been in the aquarium industry since 1994 and started Majestic Aquariums in 1999 with the goal of creating Australia’s most entertaining and educational aquarium business. Sharing my passion has always been central—whether in-store or through content creation over the years.
From VHS tapes and DVDs to seminar tours and YouTube, I’ve connected with fishkeepers worldwide as a blogger, vlogger, and presenter.
Outside of work, I play guitar, write music, and perform in a band. I also enjoy quality time with my family and friends.
Sandra King
National Director
I’ve worked in insurance for over 30 years and am well known in the industry. Before launching King Insurance Services, I helped develop products specifically for the pet industry—filling gaps that hadn’t been addressed before.
I enjoy supporting clients and members through events, training, and understanding the varying needs across Australia. COVID-19 highlighted how geography impacts support and services, which is important for PIAA to consider.
I’m passionate about helping PIAA members. Together, we can grow the association and support the pet industry by bringing our unique skills to the table.
Janine Yeates
Retail Director
assionate about pets, people, and independent business, I’ve spent 20 years in the pet industry. As Group Manager at Just For Pets, I collaborate with members, suppliers, and partners to deliver value-driven initiatives, marketing innovation, and strong retail support that help independents thrive. With experience across retail, business development, and leadership, I understand what drives success in this evolving sector. I also serve as Board Chair of RuffTRACK, helping at-risk youth rebuild their lives with a dog by their side. I’m driven by collaboration, community, and creating opportunities for growth.