Biosecurity workshops to help with new on-farm plans

Livestock producers are invited to attend a free Hunter Local Land Services workshop to help ensure their farm is ready for the new Farm Biosecurity Planning requirement.

From 1 October, all cattle, sheep and goat producers will need to complete a Biosecurity Plan for accreditation under the Livestock Production Assurance program (LPA).  This change is being implemented to ensure the Australian red meat and livestock industry maintains its global reputation as a world leader in food safety, integrity and traceability, giving producers the evidence to stand by what they sell.

Accreditation with LPA is required for continued use of National Vendor Declarations (NVDs).

A number of workshops are being held throughout the Mid Coast region in September to assist producers to prepare a plan for their own property.

These workshops will guide producers through the steps to complete a Biosecurity Plan that is relevant for their property and specific Biosecurity risks of their farming enterprise. These workshops are in addition to the large information sessions that over 1200 producers have already attended

“It’s a great opportunity, in a small group workshop, to talk through what pest, disease and weed controls your Biosecurity Plan could consider. Producers should leave the workshop with a plan they are comfortable with and makes sense to their enterprise” says Dr Lyndell Stone, District Veterinarian with Hunter Local Land Services.

Most producers already practice farm biosecurity as they recognise it makes sound farm business sense to prevent the entry of pests, disease and weeds onto their farm. A farm Biosecurity Plan documents the steps you have in place to protect your farm, your stock, your reputation, your markets and yourself.

“This biosecurity approach now just needs to be put on paper in a plan” continues Lyndell.  A biosecurity Planning template is available to assist farmers with their plan and is available at https://www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/what-we-do/endemic-disease/farm-biosecurity-plan/

The Biosecurity Planning workshops are scheduled for;