The display will feature invaluable information regarding a range of topical exotic biosecurity threats, including Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), as well as Banana freckle, mango shoot looper and papaya sticky disease.
Resources for recreational fishers will also be available, including fishing for barramundi requirements, possession limits, rules around filleting at sea, release weights for demersal fishing and why fish traps are illegal in Western Australia.
DPIRD Kununurra project manager Noel Wilson said the show was a great opportunity for show goers to talk directly to expert staff about biosecurity risks and regulation.
“Biosecurity is everyone’s business and the public and industry form the first line of defence, alongside department surveillance, to aid early detection, which is crucial to an effective and efficient response,” he said.
“DPIRD veterinary officer Isabel MacPhillamy will be on hand to answer visitors’ animal and livestock questions and to discuss the ‘register-protect-report’ imperative to help protect our valuable primary industries.
“This includes how to register their property and livestock movements to aid traceability, learn how to protect their animals from pest and disease risks and use the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline and our MyPestGuide Reporter app.”
Dog owners can also pick up information and ask questions about the dog disease ehrlichiosis, including signs to look out for and ways to reduce the risk of the disease spreading to your dog.
A senior research scientist will also be attending the show to discuss preparedness for new plant pests and diseases, as well as management of fall armyworm and American serpentine leaf miner.
The display will feature some pot plants from field trials at the department’s Frank Wise Research Institute to enlighten visitors about research to advance irrigated agriculture in the north, such as safflower and cotton.
The Kununurra Agricultural Show will be held on Friday and Saturday, 8 and 9 July 2022 at the showgrounds, located at 202 Coolibah Drive, Kununurra.
Picture caption: DPIRD Kununurra-based veterinary officer Dr Isabel MacPhillamy will be at the department’s display at the local show next month to discuss livestock disease preparedness.
