Biosecurity award for M. bovis work
A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.
A new action plan between Australia and New Zealand will see defences against the threat of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) strengthened.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy and his Australian counterpart, Senator Joe Ludwig announced the two countries will work more closely together focusing combined defences against the threat of FMD.
"FMD poses one of the single greatest threats to livestock industries and rural communities in New Zealand and Australia. We've estimated that a large outbreak would cost Australia $AUD 16 billion to control," Ludwig says.
"Australia has successfully kept FMD out of the country for more than 130 years. Our countries have committed to work together to develop a trans-Tasman FMD Action Plan to improve preparedness.
"Collaborative government action will help ensure we are both adequately prepared for this disease."
Guy says both countries are extremely aware of the importance of preparing for the threat, given the importance of the agricultural sector to both economies.
"This work will build on the strong relationship we already have through years of working together on animal health and biosecurity issues," Guy says.
"It reflects an on-going commitment to improving our knowledge and preparedness."
Key activities under the joint plan include:
• sharing intelligence on emerging animal health risks facing our region
• developing and improving training activities and FMD detection capabilities, including training in exotic animal disease recognition and participating in joint exercises
• sharing and comparing economic and disease models of FMD to inform management strategies
• collaborating on policy development, approaches and operational plans for vaccination and carcass disposal
• participating in simulation exercises to explore how we could support response efforts in the event of an incursion.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…