Horse Ban Lifted But State Remains On High Alert

Monday, 3 September 2007

The movement ban on horses and equine stock will be lifted at 12.30 pm today and replaced with a permit system for the aggregation of horses until further notice.

Acting Primary Industries Minister Paul Holloway says that although South Australia remains free of horse flu, the situation continues to worsen in N.S.W. and Queensland.

Mr Holloway says the biggest risk of horse flu developing here include large gatherings of horses, movements of people associated with horses and the movement of horse equipment (floats, trucks, saddle blankets, clothing) into the state.

“It’s easy to forget that people can carry this virus for several hours on their clothing, and, if those people are interacting with horses, then there is a clear risk,” Mr Holloway says.

“Riding instructors, trainers, horse breakers, riders and jockeys from interstate must not bring equipment with them into South Australia and this includes items such as riding boots.”

Chief Veterinary Officer Rob Rahaley warned that South Australia remains on high alert.

“We want people to consider cancelling or postponing events if they can, but if they aren’t able to do that then they will be required to apply for a permit for the event,” Mr Rahaley says.

“I can’t emphasise strongly enough that for as long as horse flu remains in Australia, then S.A. is at risk. The best we can do is to manage that risk by working together to ensure this state remains free of the disease.

“The message is simple; for local clubs or people wanting to organise gatherings of horses and people – if you don’t need to gather, please don’t.”

Information on the permit will include horse and rider details for future contact should equine flu be found in South Australia. This will apply equally to organised events such as pony clubs, dressage, riding schools and social trail riding.

People wanting permits should contact PIRSA Animal Health on 1800 675 888.

South Australia Police and the Department of Primary Industries and Resources S.A staff will be patrolling the State’s borders. Horses will be able to leave but horses will not be allowed back into South Australia in all but the most exceptional circumstances.