Released on: Monday 5 July 2021 - 12:00
Show goers will have the opportunity to learn more about protecting the sustainability and biosecurity of our fish, livestock and environment at this year’s Kununurra Agricultural Show.
Whether you like to fish, own a dog, have livestock or want to help protect the community and farmers from emerging pests and diseases, there is something for everyone at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) displays.
DPIRD Kununurra manager Noel Wilson said a number of DPIRD staff would be onsite to explain to show visitors what actions they could take to help the department maintain our enviable biosecurity status.
“Key topics at this year’s show include how to protect your dog from the serious tick-borne disease ehrlichiosis, now established in the Kimberley region,” Mr Wilson said.
“DPIRD biosecurity officer Mariah Maughan will be onsite to provide information about recognising and preventing the disease and visitors who complete a quiz will be eligible to win a $100 voucher to take their dog to the local Kununurra vet for a health check.
“DPIRD has also sponsored three of the dog competitions to promote further awareness of ehrlichiosis.”
Mr Wilson said fishers could also find out more about the changes to fishing rules introduced on 1 July to protect the sustainability of our fishing stocks into the future.
“Show visitors can pick up information on topics including recreational fishing for barramundi, trip limits, rules around filleting at sea, release weights for demersal fishing and why fish traps are illegal in Western Australia,” he said.
“Our community education officer Tahryn Thompson will also be on hand to answer other fish-related questions.”
Mr Wilson said that the support of the community in keeping pests and diseases out of WA played a vital role in protecting our biosecurity, our environment and our farming industries now and into the future.
“At the show you can learn more about the importance of early detection of pests and diseases and how you can help, as well as what items you must not bring into the State when travelling or returning to WA,” he said.
“Our pest and disease staff will be able to answer queries and to demonstrate the MyPestGuide Reporter app.”
The Kununurra Agricultural Show will be held on Friday and Saturday, 9 and 10 July 2021 at the showgrounds, located at 202 Coolibah Drive, Kununurra.
Media contact: Megan Broad, media liaison 61 8 9368 3937
