Equestrians, drovers just 'poor cousins' in horse flu crisis

For the most part, the media's interest in the drama of the equine influenza break-out has focused on the dramatic impact it has had on horse racing and the threat posed to the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

But less measurable in both monetary and human terms are the horse owners and breeders who make up the huge sport and recreation sectors, from equestrian competitors to drovers.

Now some of them are bitterly complaining that they have been ignored by the big end of the town and are facing financial ruin.

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