22 June 2015 Biosecurity of the ovine persuasion Producers have an important role to play in protecting their property, region and livestock industry from biosecurity threats. “Farm biosecurity plans are simple to implement and effective in protecting farms and producers’ future,” said Mrs Louise Pearce, Livestock Biosecurity Network. “In many cases, one or two simple preventative measures can save a lot of future heartache.” Almost anything moved onto a property can be a potential source of introduction for pests, weeds or disease for livestock and plants. Being aware of the biosecurity risks that can arise as a result of the introduction of stock, people, equipment or other farm inputs is the first step towards actions to mitigate these risks. “Every livestock producer should have their own biosecurity plan to help protect their livelihoods from the threats posed by disease, pests and weeds,” Mrs Pearce said. “The single biggest threat to the sheep industry’s sustainability would be an outbreak of an emergency animal disease, but endemic diseases to the Riverina such as footrot, scabby mouth and Ovine Johnes disease, reduce productivity and income, and have an impact on animal health and welfare,” explained Dr Tim Biffin, District Veterinary, Riverina Local Land Services. The biggest cost to the industry is losing markets, so good on‐farm biosecurity goes a long way towards protecting markets. “A biosecurity plan costs very little, but the return is immediate, ongoing and cumulative,” Dr Biffin said. Mrs Pearce and Dr Biffin will discuss farm biosecurity plans at the Graham Centre Sheep Forum being held at the Charles Sturt University Convention Centre on Friday 10 July. Producers will also hear about the importance of how measurement of the Australian flock can be used to help both understand past market behaviour and in the development of plans for the future, both at the farm, supply chain and policy level; planning a profitable sheep enterprise; and using hard‐seeded legumes for sheep systems in the mixed farming zone. The program includes two case studies from innovative producers across our regions that are pushing the boundaries with genetics and wool handling. The forum is run with sponsorship contributed from Animal Health Australia, Merial, Riverina Cooperative, National Australia Bank, Sheep Connect, Manildra Meat Company and Riverina Local Land Services. Register online at www.trybooking.com/HROF or contact Toni Nugent, E: [email protected] or T: 0418 974 775. For further details, interviews and photos please contact Toni Nugent, Industry Partnerships and Communications Manager, Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation on mobile 0418 974 775. ‐ends‐ The Graham Centre is a research alliance between Charles Sturt University and NSW Department of Primary Industries.