Biosecurity Queensland has partnered with the organisers of Beef Australia 2018 to make sure no unwanted pests make it into this year’s event.
All aspects of animal husbandry, including feed, water and bedding have been taken into consideration for the major event with a vet on standby to deal with any stock-related injuries or illnesses.
Queensland Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Allison Crook said biosecurity officers had been working closely with Beef Australia to prepare their detailed plan for incoming and outgoing livestock at the state’s biggest cattle expo.
“To make sure there are no disease issues, there will be a range of preventative actions for event organisers and exhibitors to undertake, and the health of livestock will be monitored throughout the event,” Dr Crook said.
“This will minimise the chance of any disease-carrying livestock entering the venue, or introduced through other pathways.
“If a disease were detected at the event, there are plans in place to isolate any affected stock to stop any spread of infection.
“As with previous expos, the highest biosecurity standards will be applied to protect the health of all livestock. I encourage all livestock owners and handlers as well as members of the public attending the event to observe and respect the biosecurity plans in place.”
Dr Crook said all exhibitors should understand their movement requirements prior to the expo.
“Biosecurity Queensland staff will be on site throughout the event working with Beef Australia to help exhibitors with their livestock movement requirements,” she said.
“This includes cattle tick clearance, NLIS reporting, and providing advice for stock sold at the event. Exhibitors bringing livestock into the site will need a fully completed NVD Waybill, National Cattle Health Declaration and all stock must be NLIS compliant.
“All horses entering the site must have a completed Horse Health Declaration and they must have a current Hendra virus vaccination.”