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OUR
 TEAM 


TRAINERS

MEET OUR 

Our professional and talented teachers boast over 55 years of combined experience in the grooming industry and hold a multitude of achievements and qualifications amongst them. Their first-hand knowledge, hands-on training techniques, and valuable tips and tricks will help you master the foundations of dog grooming and take your skills to the next level. 

James Bennett

DIRECTOR & EDUCATION SPECIALIST

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Meet James Bennett, a multi-award-winning dog groomer with over a decade of experience specializing in breeding and showing poodles. As a third-generation poodle breeder and dog groomer, he has earned a global reputation and is highly regarded among the top Poodle enthusiasts worldwide. James's expertise extends to hosting grooming seminars across the globe and in Australia, where he imparts his invaluable knowledge to fellow groomers.

Nicknamed "Mr. Scissor Hands" for his exceptional all-hand scissoring skills, James's grooming artistry sets him apart. He is a guru of Poodle grooming and deshed’s, ensuring every detail is immaculate. His commitment to using only the finest products guarantees outstanding results.

 

Together with his partner Kirri, James co-owns the renowned La Casa De Pooch Grooming Salon, honoured with "Brisbane's Best Grooming Salon" award for two consecutive years. Additionally, James has been selected for the prestigious Plush Puppy Master Coat Care Specialist 2023 team, solidifying his place at the forefront of the grooming industry.

In James Bennett's capable hands, your beloved dogs receive unparalleled care and emerge as stunning examples of canine elegance, reflecting his passion, talent, and dedication to the art of grooming.

michelle weber

EDUCATION SPECIALIST

Michelle is a multi-award-winning groomer and one of our talented Education Specialists at Australian Dog Grooming School. She boasts over 25 years of experience in the industry, including 10 years' experience in teaching and training and assessment.

 

She describes grooming as her passion, hobby and career, and her grooms have been featured in Opawz ifashion.pet - Creative Grooming Collection Book 2020 Edition

 

Michelle has travelled around Australia competing in various grooming competitions and she loves specialising in English Springer Spaniels, Poodles, and Asian Fusion Styling. 

 

"I believe we never stop learning" - Michelle

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Lainey Bott

EDUCATION SPECIALIST

Introducing Lainey, one of our incredible Grooming Education Specialists! 

With 7 years of experience under her belt, Lainey's journey began at the young age of 18 when she embarked on her grooming career while simultaneously pursuing a degree in Veterinary Science. Driven by her true calling, Lainey made the decision to pursue grooming full-time, turning her passion into a way of life.

She not only excels in her craft but also thrives as a fierce grooming competitor, capturing multiple first-place titles across state lines. However, for Lainey, winning is just a part of the journey. She finds immense joy in sharing her knowledge and skills with others, making sure that learning and growth never cease.

Prepare to be amazed by Lainey's exceptional talent and contagious enthusiasm for all things grooming. She's here to inspire and guide you on your own grooming journey, ensuring that you'll be well-equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.

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Jessica Renwood

ASSISTANT TEACHER/TAE ASSESSOR & TRAINER

Jessica Renwood has been in the grooming industry since she could crawl, having two parents who both groom (yes, this is Nicky's daughter). 

Jess embarked on her journey as a professional groomer in 2016 when she started working in her  grooming salon as a bather/brusher and receptionist for 2 years. She quickly progressed to Senior Stylist, and is now managing her own salon, Crackin Dog Grooming.

 

Jess loves to compete and has travelled Australia-wide to compete at various grooming competitions. Her highest achievements so far are BEST IN SHOW 2nd at Bathurst Grooming Competition with a Lakeland Terrier, and BEST IN SHOW 3rd at MelbGroom Grooming Competition with Shetland Sheepdog. She also loves to style and regularly competes in Asian Fusion.

 

Additionally, Jess is qualified in Dog Behaviour and Training through the National Dog Training Federation, has completed her Cert IV in Workplace Training and Assessment and is a qualified TAE Training and Assessor.

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ADMIN TEAM

MEET OUR 

Meet the superstars who keep things running smoothly behind-the-scenes. They organise everything you need and ensure you are ready to go for your course! 

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xuan nguyen

ADMIN OFFICER

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TENEAL WELLINGS

MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

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Kirri jacobson

BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER

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