Vic Trainer who brought horse into SA - no fine

THOROUGHBRED RACING S.A. LIMITED
STIPENDIARY STEWARDS REPORT
ADDITIONAL REPORT – A PETERSON / IRISH GUN

Stewards have concluded their inquiries into IRISH GUN, trained by Mr. A. Peterson of Warrnambool, attending the race meeting at Mount Gambier on Friday, 2 November 2007 when not in compliance with either the PIRSA Policy on Moving Vaccinated Horses into South Australia, which was in place at that time, or holding a Permit to Introduce Equines into South Australia.
Stewards ascertained that IRISH GUN, having received its initial primary vaccination, had attended the Mount Gambier Racecourse on this day and Mr. Peterson had provided a completed application for a Permit together with a Veterinary Certificate dated 31 October 2007. Mr. Peterson had not submitted the application to PIRSA at least 72 hours prior to travelling, as required. It was confirmed that the trainer had contacted TRSA Limited Stewards’ Department prior to the meeting inquiring of his obligations, at the same time alleging he held the necessary paperwork.
It was noted that IRISH GUN, prior to being ordered to return to Warrnambool, had samples taken by a PIRSA Officer and that the Mount Gambier race meeting proceeded, although races were delayed. Analysis of the samples subsequently proved clear of EI virus.
Stewards have charged Mr. Peterson under Rule ARR.175(k) in that prior to, and on the day of 2 November 2007, his negligence could have led to a breach of the Rules. On the evidence, Mr. Peterson was found guilty as charged. Having regard to the circumstances of this matter, Stewards concluded not to impose a penalty. In determining to not impose a penalty, the Stewards considered that Mr. Peterson had demonstrated an intent to comply with the requirements of PIRSA and TRSA Limited and acknowledged certain mitigating circumstances.

G. M. LOCH
CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS
12 December 2007
GML:et/T/Stewards/T/St Reports/Add Report A Peterson / Irish Gun
http://www.trsa.com.au/index.html

Victorian DPI Report - horses may face destruction!!

Having just read the Victorian DPI Report on the Horse Deals EI Updates on the Gallery, was astounded to read 'Owners found to have illegally moved horses into Victoria will be prosecuted and horses may face destruction.' not to mention 'Vaccinations commenced in Victoria on 01/10/2007. The vaccine is being used under permit for registered racehorses only and is managed exclusively by RVL and Harness Racing Victoria.'
I have normally just glanced over these reports as they seem to be much of the same each day but I was quite shocked when I read this - if the DPI wants to continue saying that the TB's are not getting any preferential treatment WHY are registered racehorses the only ones allowed the vaccines and the RVL/Harness are the ones controlling the stuff!
Let's hope there is not an outbreak in Vic while all the DPI offices are closed for Christmas.....

Stephanie C
Geelong

CROSS BORDER MOVEMENT A BOOST FOR THOROUGHBRED INDUSTRY

After several weeks of detailed planning and liaison with NSW and Victorian DPI, a consignment of 66 thoroughbreds were transported across the NSW/Victorian border overnight to the Inglis’ Oaklands sales complex in Victoria for a period of quarantine, having already served three days quarantine at the company’s Newmarket headquarters in Sydney.

Amongst those transported were yearlings to be prepared by Victorian farms for the upcoming Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale and a number of racehorses. All horses have been blood tested to verify they are “recovered horses”, as the DPI refers to them. The Managing Director of William Inglis & Son, Mark Webster explains that, “Recovered horses are individuals that have had the virus and are now completely resolved. They carry antibodies in their system making them immune to the same strain of Equine Influenza (EI). They are not capable of spreading EI virally and are considered safe for transport into Victoria by DPI after completing quarantine in approved facilities in accordance with National Protocols. Recovered horses are not the same as vaccinated horses. Vaccinated horses currently require a longer period of quarantine.”
Mark Webster added that, “Inglis is committed to keeping Victoria EI free, which is why so much work has been done to ensure horses that are entering Victoria meet DPI bio-security protocols. It is important to note that this movement of horses does not mean that we are back to normal, but movement is permitted provided protocols are followed and permits are issued. The horse industry in general must get back to business and take every safe step available to us along the way. We believe strongly in Victoria and want to ensure the Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale delivers the best outcome for Victorian breeders and buyers. This sale is on everyone’s radar at the moment following the achievements of Weekend Hussler and Arapaho Miss during the Spring Carnival, and Sacred Kingdom’s performance on the international stage. The addition of NSW yearlings to the sale will help keep it in the spotlight.”

Following the success of today’s cross border movement, Inglis is now assessing the feasibility of conducting another movement of horses in January 2008. The aim is to help Victorian breeders get their broodmares and foals home from the Hunter Valley. We may also be able to help Victorian trainers who are keen to move their racehorses from NSW back to their stables. Only horses that have had the EI virus and are now classified as “recovered horses” will be considered for movement at this stage, as they require minimal quarantine. Quarantine at Newmarket and Oaklands will again be under strict DPI bio-security protocols.

The tentative dates for quarantine are as follows:
Inglis Newmarket, Sydney 21 - 24 January (depart and travel overnight)
Inglis Oaklands, Melbourne 25 - 28 January
Victorian thoroughbred breeders and trainers who would like to express interest in moving their recovered horses from NSW to Victoria in late January should contact Inglis by sending an email to transport@inglis.com.au and include their name, contact details, current location, number, type and EI status of horses they would like to move to Victoria. Anyone taking up this service will need to assist by providing staff to help care for horses during their quarantine. If demand is significant, priority will be given to loyal Inglis customers as numbers are limited.
Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria president Mike Becker, who was initially concerned about the movement of NSW horses into Victoria today commented, "I've now seen the basis of the protocols being used to move NSW horses into Victoria and can confirm that I'm very happy with the progress that Inglis and DPI have made in recent weeks, albeit that communication amongst all parties could have been better. The advice we've received from DPI is that recovered horses are not a threat to Victoria and I have no reason to doubt this. We're delighted to be working in a co-operative manner with Inglis to assist Victorian breeders to get their recovered broodmares and foals back from the Hunter Valley in late January. This is a big step forward for the Victorian thoroughbred industry."
The remaining yearlings currently located in NSW and Queensland that have been accepted for the Melbourne Premier Sale will commence their quarantine at Newmarket on February 19 before heading to Oaklands for the sale which commences on March 2.

Horse flu cuts Albury harness racing meets

The harness racing industry in Albury has fallen victim to equine influenza with only one race permitted this season.
The 10-race schedule has been cut back to one meeting on New Year's Eve because of restrictions on horse movements.Albury Harness Racing Club president Jeff Hogan says it is likely to have a big effect on the industry and support services.
He says people are urged to support the industry by attending the New Year's Eve meeting.
"We'll be lobbying well before April to see if it's possible to catch up later on in the year or into the next season," he said.
"[We'll be lobbying to] get the catch up that's able to perhaps get us back to where we were."

EI: Ponies and show horses go interstate to Victoria

A large group of ponies and show horses stranded in NSW have been given the green light to return to Victoria under strict permit conditions, NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald said today.
“A total of 46 horses, including showjumping, dressage and eventing horses are making the long-awaited journey home, after being provided permits from Victorian authorities,” Minister Macdonald said.
“This is great news for Victorian pleasure horse owners whose animals have been stuck in NSW since August 25.
“The horses’ release from NSW into Victoria comes hot on the heels of the first thoroughbred horses crossing the Murray River on Monday night.
“Victorian authorities have approved the transport of 46 pleasure horses belonging to 30 owners, including ponies, showjumpers and animals owned by Charles Sturt University equine science students.
“Also, a few of the horses caught in the Condobolin showground lockdown when the horse flu outbreak began are amongst those finally being able to return home.”
Minister Macdonald said for the past 14 days the horses have been in quarantine on seven NSW properties. They will be required to spend a further seven days in quarantine in Victoria at Werribee.
“All of these horses have come from the NSW green zone which is free of horse flu. None have been infected or vaccinated and all have tested negative for the disease,” Minister Macdonald said.
“The horses will cross the Murray River in truckloads at five points between East Gippsland and Echuca over two days.
“The movement of horses into Victoria without a permit is illegal.
“Offenders who attempt to illegally bring horses across the border face fines of up to $24,000 and two years imprisonment.”
Minister Macdonald said the horses and vehicles had to meet stringent requirements to obtain approval from Victorian authorities.
“The floodgates have not been opened to allow uncontrolled movement across the Victorian border,” Mr Macdonald said.
“Victoria only allows limited movements on permit following quarantine and testing, and the adoption of tough biosecurity during transport.”
For further information on permit applications for moving horse equipment and horses across Victorian borders, contact Victorian authorities on 1800 678 779.

EI travel restrictions 'put horses at risk'

More than 60 thoroughbred horses stranded in New South Wales since the outbreak of equine influenza have arrived in Victoria. It was the first legally sanctioned movement across state borders and authorities say it's an indication the industry is on the mend. But some horseowners aren't convinced. They say the travel restrictions are too tight, and are putting some horses at risk.
Listen to the audio

Horse breeders frustrated over continuing horse flu restrictions

A horse breeder in central New South Wales is considering shooting her animals, because EI restrictions mean she's unable to move 50 stock off her drought-ravaged property to a nearby paddock. The breeder is still hoping her area will be declared a "green" zone, allowing her to move her horses and avert drastic action.
Listen to the audio

Social impact of horse flu studied

More than 3000 people have taken part in a national online research project about the negative impacts of horse flu.
The survey is being run by the University of Western Sydney, which had its Hawkesbury campus forced into quarantine after the August outbreak of equine influenza.
Premlinary results are showing people have felt ostracised and alone in trying to deal with the virus.
Research psychologist, Dr Mel Taylor says the psychological impacts of horse flu have been far-reaching.
"What I'm finding that's particularly interesting from my point of view of course, is there are so many different ways this impacts people, from their direct and very basic concern for their animals, they're very dear to people, so you know, the impact that has on them, the concern that they can't protect them, but also I think there's the attitudes of those who haven't been affected in other parts of the country that there's the potential for that stigma to remain," she says.

Tasmania Defers EI Vaccination Program

The Tasmanian Thoroughbred Racing Council has deferred plans to vaccinate the state's racing population until at least after the Summer Racing Carnival (which runs from January 27-February 27). However vaccination of yearlings to be sold at the 2008 Tasmanan Magic Millions Select Sale in February will proceed as planned. TTRC chief executive officer Rohan Mitchell explained: "The TTRC has communicated widely with industry participants & received advice both nationally & internationally from a wide range of participants & stakeholders. The TTRC in conjunction with the Australian Racing Board lobbied & secured vaccines on behalf of the industry in order to vaccinate the current racing population. Approval was obtained from the Department Of Primary Industries to use the vaccines on the basis of business risk mitigation that will require at least 85% of the thoroughbred population to be inoculated. Therefore in order to commence vaccination in Tasmania all trainers need to commit to the proposal. Voluntary or spasmodic vaccination in a relatively small number of thoroughbreds would not provide overall benefits to the Tasmanian thoroughbred racing industry & this would not comply with the DPI requirements to gain approval to vaccinate." Mitchell added if vaccination commenced in late December ,all horses would require their booster shots in the middle of the summer carnival, potentially impacting on their preparations." (Dec 19)

Wots the deal now?

So, now it appears that the horses that have had EI and gotten over it are being given preference to travel and spend less time in quarantine than the ones that have stayed totally clear of it. I'm confused again. It is so unfair! We have done the right thing -locked down, banned visitors, stopped visiting others, stopped training our horses outside our property (needed for Endurance training) etc. virtually come to a grinding halt, to find that we are still higher risk than others. We have been classified as Amber and now Green but we are still grounded. We can ride out of the property now, yay, but have to report like children to the DPI to let them know where we are riding to. Stuff that!

Now I read, oh yeah, you CAN get a permit to move your "sold horses" to another state but adhere to the protocols advised -micro chipping , testing, vaccinations, quarantine here and there, re- testing etc.etc. BUT AT THE NEW OWNERS EXPENSE!!!. We never asked for EI and we never brought it here in the first place.

Oh and one of our horses has to go to Tasmania but they still ban horses that originate from NSW and QLD. Seems like the right foot doesn't know what the left one is up to.

Maybe, I just should have deliberately given my horses all EI long ago and we would be in front of the queue not in the far recesses of never never land!!

To top off the anger and frustration, I read this from a news report "He said other thoroughbreds would come into Victoria through January and early February." I think I might have to change my breed to thoroughbreds.!! Well they ARE bred thoroughly!! Does that count???

'What about me...............it isn't fair.............. I've had enough now I want my share.................Can't you see I want to live.... but you just take more than you give... What about me??????????.......................

PS My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all those who have lost horses, had business losses and incurred extra expenses (such as vet bills from sick animals) incurred from this whole EI debacle.It is all so wrong. I hope you are still able to enjoy your Christmas with your families and may the New Year be brighter for all.

Lesley Inkson -Inspiration Farm American Saddlebreds.

Twisted Media Release from the NSW DPI

I've noticed several media reports cheerfully referring to Centennial Park as the start of the Outbreak for EI.

All seem to have taken their information from the NSW DPI at http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/aboutus/news/recent-news/agriculture-news-releases/ei-first-horses-into-victoria

"EI: first horses cross the border into Victoria

17 Dec 2007

Sixty-six NSW horses will cross the Murray River into Victoria later today, 114 days after equine influenza (EI) was detected at stables in Sydney’s Centennial Park, Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said today."

Sounds to me like NSW DPI is running a propaganda campaign on behalf of AQIS.

I considered writing to the DPI and asking them to correct this but every email I've previously sent has been replied to with a generic "cut and paste" that never answers my specific questions.

For the record, per the transcripts of the Callinan Inquiry, the first positive tests were at AQIS on 20 August with suspected cases showing symptoms on the 17th. The Inquiry may unearth earlier cases that weren't detected by our premier biosecurity body.

Are we to expect more media releases form the DPI that play fast and loose with the facts ?

Claire T.