Equine Flu

I wish to extend my deepest thoughts to all those in Queensland and NSW who are fighting this dreaded Equine Flu. My son is on a large stud in Scone, NSW and up until 10 days ago were free from the virus. Ten days ago they were allowed to shift mares from one side of the road to the other so that mares could foal down. But now unfortunately they have contracted the virus. Their security system for their stud was so strict my son having to leave the stud "for a carton of milk" completely sprayed on the way out and double sprayed on the way back. The cars were driving through a hose down situation.

SO how did this "bug" get in. Being an airbourn problem have we thought of 2 carriers - the wind and probably the most dangerous - A BIRD! This property had 950 mares booked into stallions, one that still remains in quarantine and has been there since August 11th!

I feel for all those who have been stood down - retrenched and businesses that have come to a stand still. Not only the likes of jockey's, trainers, horse transports but caterers and those associated with all facets of the racing industry. We need to feel for all those equestrians that had high hopes of maybe gaining positions on our Olympic Team. The list could go on and on.
We - those people in some way that are connected to the "Equine" Family are part of a giant team. I’m sure if we all work and help each other we will overcome this dreaded virus and get ourselves back on track with our thoroughbreds, Standedbreds and our much loved horses. I for one would rather give up one season of shows to make sure that our small team here remained safe and "flu" free.

I wish all those effected the very best and hope that you and your much loved horses are back on "track" very soon.

Kris Meyer