Tighter Reins In Hunter
Newcastle Herald
Monday January 14, 2008
MOVES come into effect today to restrict the movement of horses throughout the Hunter as the battle against equine influenza continues.
Horse owners in the purple zone, which covers the Hunter and extends to Tamworth and Sydney, will need a travelling horse statement if they transport their animals anywhere.All horse events must be registered with the Department of Primary Industries.The horse flu outbreak started in early September.Deputy chief veterinary officer Ian Roth said yesterday the state was making good progress towards eradicating equine influenza."Our . . . investigations indicate there is little disease left and now it's time to tighten the movement restrictions so that we can identify any new outbreaks if they occur," Mr Roth said."With about 84 per cent of the state now in the green zone and no new infected properties since early December, it is clear that we are making real progress towards our goal . . ."The restrictions will allow the department to monitor movements and track any spread of the disease.Movements outside the purple zone will be allowed only under permit.Mr Roth said identification and mapping of infected properties was continuing.Horse owners had to carry their travelling horse statements on any journey, he said.The equine influenza information line is 1800 675 888.
© 2008 Newcastle Herald
