The Maranoa region had an early start to the storm season period in October. This gave a sporadic start for a few people. Unfortunately, the follow-up has been dismal. Tinder dry conditions are now widespread and due mainly to hot, gusty winds. A widespread rain band would be welcome over the whole region!
As we wind the year down, decisions are being made as to what cattle can be carried through over the Christmas break. The last sale for Roma is scheduled for the December 11 and we reopen on the January 15. During this period all pens will be cleaned out and resurfaced. Progress is also coming along well with the new selling pens on the eastern side of the yards. According to council, construction is on track to be completed around the Easter period.
While talking about the saleyards it is paramount that we keep in mind our commitment to animal welfare and biosecurity obligations. If you are in doubt as to the welfare of an animal before trucking it is important to refer to the Is It Fit To Load manual. Otherwise contact your agent or local DPI representative. This is relevant to all livestock movements including going direct to feedlots and abattoirs. There are a lot more eyes moving around the industry nowadays waiting for someone to slip up. Please do not take this part of our industry lightly.
The importance of biosecurity also cannot be overlooked, with everyone in the supply chain having a General Biosecurity Obligation. This means that everyone is responsible for managing biosecurity risks that are: under their control, and that they know about, or should reasonably be expected to know about.
Animal Health Australia has released an online training course aimed at providing livestock agents and wool sellers with an overview of what an Emergency Animal Disease is, why biosecurity is important and your responsibilities when you suspect an EAD is present in your facility. The course takes 30-45 minutes and while it is sheep focused the fundamentals the course highlights are the same as they would apply to cattle. There are additional training modules available explaining what would happen during an EAD response and more information on foot and mouth disease. God forbid that we ever have to rely on these learnings, but forewarned is forearmed. If you are interested in conducting the online training, contact ALPA on (02) 9262 6633.
As we are now in the lead-up to the festive season, I would like to wish everyone a safe, happy and very wet Christmas.
- Cyril Close is a member of Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association (ALPA).