Over 135 South Gippsland livestock producers attended Livestock Health and Biosecurity VICTORIA’s (LHBV) event in Leongatha last month to hear about the new Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) program requirements and how to make biosecurity practical and useful on their farm.
LPA changes came into effect on 1 October this year and left many producers feeling confused and underprepared.
The event provided the opportunity for producers to understand and feel empowered by the part they play in disease prevention and got them thinking about the importance of providing evidence to consumers about the safety and integrity of the red meat they produce.
Presenters included Dianne Phillips, Agriculture Victoria District Veterinary Officer, who used the outbreak of FMD in the UK to encourage producers to be active in the surveillance of disease.
An outline of the LPA changes was given along with examples of practical measures to reduce the risk of introducing disease to a farm.
The day also include a presentation from Gippsland mixed prouder Bill Bray, who was the first Australian farmer to be officially granted quality assurance for his sheep flock and cattle herd. Bill highlighted the effectiveness of thorough record keeping, revealing that he continues to use a normal diary to keep track of records like vaccination and drench records, mob movements, and when high risk visitors are on the farms.
Victorian Farmers Federation Livestock Councillor and Gippsland beef producer Faye Tuchtan attended and was delighted with the success of the event.
“It was great to see the story of biosecurity play throughout the day, from the international example back down to the basic management of disease on farm,” said Mrs Tuchtan.
“It was pleasing to see the day so well attended and the interaction between producers really added value to the presentations.” Added Mrs Tuchtan
The event was run by LHBV who deliver a range of events across Victoria focusing on animal health, welfare and biosecurity information and is accessible by all livestock producers.
For more information contact LHBV on 1300 020 163 or email [email protected].