REGISTRATION of horse events is no longer required in New South Wales.
Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald said the move was the final step in Australia's recovery from the devastating equine influenza outbreak that began in August last year.
“We have now completed the required twelve month surveillance period since the last case was identified in Queensland," Mr Macdonald said.
“In doing so Australia has convinced the rest of the world we have succeeded in eradicating EI."
Mr Macdonald said it was an important milestone that allows the final NSW precautionary restriction to be lifted.
He said while compulsory registration of horse events was no longer required from January 1, the government was asking event organisers and competitors to continue following biosecurity guidelines to minimise the risk to horses during any future infectious equine disease outbreak.
Acting NSW Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) Steve Dunn said horse industry organisations throughout NSW would be contacted and encouraged to continue using a range of guidelines.
“It is highly recommended that horse event organisers compile and maintain an annual calendar of events, collect information on horse attendance, maintain strict biosecurity and not allow sick horses to attend,” he said.
“Horse owners and riders are responsible for ensuring their horses are healthy before competing in events."
Mr Dunn said guidelines for running or attending an event would be available on the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.
“The guidelines take into account lessons learned from our experience with EI,” he said.
