Ovine Brucellosis

The aim of the Ovine Brucellosis Accreditation Scheme is to protect breeding flocks from the effects of ovine brucellosis and to ensure ovine brucellosis-free accredited rams are available to meet market demands.

All owners of ram flocks registered with an approved breed society or association are eligible to apply for accreditation.

The scheme is administered by the Animal Health Group of Primary Industries and Resources South Australia (PIRSA) for the sheep breed societies.

The Department oversees all aspects of the scheme. This involves:

  • registering veterinary practitioners and their associates who will be carrying out the flock testing
  • receiving and recording all reports submitted
  • issuing reminder letters in January to the flocks due for re-testing in that year
  • issuing certificates for new flocks and those completing re-accreditation requirements

Veterinary practitioners

All the field work is conducted by veterinary practitioners who will carry out the necessary examinations and testing, including inspecting properties for fencing standards and suitability of facilities. The relevant reports are forwarded to the Department.

Breed societies

The breed societies' are responsible for ensuring that flock owners adhere to the terms of the scheme. Some breed societies demand accreditation as a membership requirement for their society, others allow only accredited flocks to participate in shows and sales.

Prospective flock owner

A flock owner wanting to join the scheme should contact a veterinarian registered under the scheme to obtain a copy of the scheme’s requirements and associated entry paperwork. These documents should contain:

  • a covering letter,
  • two copies of the application and declaration form,
  • a payment registration form,
  • the details of the scheme

Upon completing the application form, keep one as a personal record and return the other to PIRSA.

Contact officer

Karen Greenhalgh
Phone: 08 8207 7959
Fax:    08 8207 7852
Email: greenhalgh.karen@saugov.sa.gov.au

Mailing address:    PIRSA Animal Health, GPO Box 1671, ADELAIDE SA 5001