Dr. Sheila Finch is a local Islander originally from Port Alberni. Before pursuing a career in veterinary medicine she obtained a Bachelor of Science from the University of Victoria. During this time she spent three semesters abroad studying marine biology and biomedical sciences at James Cook University in Australia. She then spent the next year and a half working at a marine mammal rescue centre before moving back to Australia in 2008. For the next four years Sheila studied veterinary science at the University of Melbourne and graduated with distinction in 2011. During her studies in Melbourne, Sheila maintained an interest in wildlife and was involved in a research project investigating diseases in Australian fur seal colonies.

After many years away, Sheila is enjoying life back on the island. Sheila lives locally with her partner Graeme, their dog Cuillin, and their three cats Felix, Oscar and Rusty. In her spare time she enjoys jogging, hiking, surfing, snowboarding and kayaking.