Horse Events Should Gallop On

ORGANISERS and participants in horse events are encouraged by Local Land Services to continue with all events in Scone, following a case of Hendra in the area.

Jane Bennett, district veterinarian for Hunter LLS, said there are no transport restrictions in place in the area, outside of the affected property.

“There are no transport restrictions on the movement of horses in our region,” said Dr Bennett.

“The property involved has cooperated with a biosecurity direction restricting their horse movements, but this does not and will not impact other properties or events in the Upper Hunter.

“We understand the level of community interest, however there is no cause to be further alarmed.”

Last weekend the Upper Hunter Dressage Association held their event with no impact on the number of participants at the event, which president, Linden Knight credited to the high level of education about Hendra among horse owners and practicing good infection control procedures. See story: Equine Sports in Full Swing – June 17, 2019.

Related story: Hendra Some Risk Perspective – June 18, 2019.