Warwick to host Govt horse sale

The Queensland Government will hold its first horse sale since the equine influenza (EI) outbreak.

The horse sale will be in Warwick later this month.

Eight thoroughbred mares seized for welfare reasons before the outbreak will be offered for sale.

Department of Primary Industries' veterinary officer Lawrence Gavey says the horses were allegedly abandoned but are now in excellent condition.

"Principal objectives in selling these horses are to turn them off so that we're no longer responsible for them," he said.

'We are not in the business of breeding horses of course and we also know the acquisition of these horse will be highly prized in the thoroughbred industry."