VET TRAINING STRENGTHENS LIVESTOCK BIOSECURITY DEFENCES

Victoria’s private livestock veterinarians are being further upskilled in disease detection and emergency response, through recent training programs delivered by Agriculture Victoria.

The two-day animal disease investigation courses were held across regional centres including Ellinbank, Elmore, Rutherglen and Hamilton, bringing together small groups of local vets for intensive practical training.

Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Jeff Cave says the program focuses on strengthening capacity to identify and respond to exotic diseases, including threats such as foot-and-mouth disease.

He says a well-trained private veterinary network is a critical first line of defence in protecting Victoria’s livestock industries and broader food supply chain.

The program has been running for more than a decade and continues to train more than 50 veterinarians each year, supported through the Livestock Biosecurity Funds Grant Program.

Agriculture Victoria says the initiative strengthens overall biosecurity preparedness and helps ensure rapid response capability in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak.