The NSW Government is working closely with AgShows NSW and the Country Women’s Association to keep NSW agriculture shows running safely in the face of the H5 avian influenza (bird flu).
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is working directly with show societies and CWA branches across the state, providing practical advice, resources and training to help agricultural shows continue safely while maintaining strong biosecurity.
Show committees are being provided with practical biosecurity tools and information to manage the H5 bird flu risk including event planning resources, signage, posters, fact sheets and advice on managing poultry exhibits, reporting disease concerns and responding to wildlife deaths.
There are more than 180 agricultural shows held across NSW each year attended by more than one million people.
NSW DPIRD Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jo Coombe said agriculture shows are an important part of regional life.
“That’s why we have been working closely with show societies to equip them with up-to-date information,” Dr Coombe said.
“This allows them to make decisions on the best approach for their shows to keep poultry producers and communities safe.”
AgShows NSW President Jody Nelson-Gleeson said working with NSW DPIRD had been beneficial to all show societies.
“AgShows NSW values its strong relationship with NSW DPIRD,” Ms Nelson-Gleeson said.
“With poultry sections forming an important part of many agricultural shows, DPIRD’s prompt response to H5 bird flu, including a dedicated webinar and practical resources, has provided our show societies with clear, consistent advice and confidence to prepare and respond appropriately.”
Working with AgShows NSW and the CWA is one part of the Government’s broader response to H5 bird flu, helping strengthen surveillance and promote the national “Avoid. Record. Report.” message to exhibitors, visitors and the wider community.
Enhanced surveillance for H5 bird flu is underway across NSW, backed by dedicated response teams, rapid laboratory testing and coordination through the State Coordination Centre in Orange.
DPIRD is also working with industry, government and environmental agencies to monitor risks and respond quickly to any potential detections.
Bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds and the risk to human health remains low.
DPIRD will continue working closely with agricultural shows, exhibitors and community organisations to provide timely information and support throughout the show season.
If you see sick or dead wild birds, domestic birds, marine mammals or other wildlife showing signs of H5 bird flu – AVOID direct contact, RECORD what you see, REPORT it via the online reporting form or Emergency Animal Disease Hotline – 1800 675 888.
