Travelling Horse Statement needed for Sydney Show

WITH the horse competition in full swing at the Sydney Royal Show, NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) inspectors will be out in force to police Travelling Horse Statement (THS) compliance.

"Although NSW is free of equine influenza (EI), traceability remains important until our freedom status is confirmed and accepted internationally," NSW Primary Industries Minister, Ian Macdonald, says.

"Traceability depends on accurate THS movement information being provided for all horse movements in NSW, including the Royal Easter Show.

"DPI inspectors will be on hand at the show to ensure horses attending the Royal Easter Show for both competitive and demonstration events arrive with a valid THS."

Mr Macdonald says THS compliance monitoring had stepped up since movement restrictions were eased at the end of February and would continue as long as traceability remained an important precaution.

"The good news is that there has been almost 100pc THS compliance at recent events attended by DPI inspectors in both country areas and the Sydney basin," he says.

"A THS must be carried on the journey when moving horses by vehicle, or travelling to or from any horse event, whether a small social gathering or prestigious competition such as the Royal Sydney Horse Classic at the Royal Easter Show.

"All horse events must be registered and the event number recorded on each THS before attending an event, so it is important for event organisers to register early."

* Travelling Horse Statements and event registrations can be lodged online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/equine-influenza or by calling 1800 675 888.