UQ Gatton snares world-class breeding complex

A world-class horse-breeding complex complete with embryo transfer laboratory is part of an $800,000 upgrade underway at The University of Queensland’s Gatton campus.

The facility’s refurbished stallion yards, round yards, dressage arenas and teasing lanes will lie adjacent to historic farm square — a stable complex dating back 100 years.

Professor Wayne Bryden, head of the School of Animal Studies, said the new centre — to be finished in November 2003 — would be the best in Australia “by a long run”.

“We will have top-class facilities which will greatly assist our students in their learning and ensure the welfare and care of horses remain at the highest of levels,” Professor Bryden said.

The centralised precinct, which includes an upgrade of part of the campus’ old dairy site, includes eight crushes for mares and associated yards for foals.

The multi-purpose crushes will also assist in reproductive, dental and physical examinations, as well as assisting in horse restraint.

In addition, a state-of-the-art onsite laboratory allows semen evaluation, embryo transfer and a clean or dust-free serving area for semen collection.

Equine research conducted at the Pinjarra Hills facility will be relocated to the Gatton campus as part of a world-leading co-ordinated equine precinct.

“Gatton will have all of the major ingredients for increased equine research and will allow easy and safe movement of horses and students,” Professor Bryden said.

“All equine reproduction will be conducted here and there will also be an up-market and extensive set of round yards and arenas for horse handling and equitation.”

Veterinary, equine and animal science students will use the centre, and their equine buddies will be housed, groomed and tacked-up in new day yards and wash bays.

“Another 20 day yards are planned in addition to the 40 we already have for students who have horses on campus through the academic term, and as part of that we’ll have washing facilities for horses and tack rooms as well,” Professor Bryden said.

“It really shows the University’s commitment to providing its students and staff with the best possible facilities to carry out their teaching and research.”

Media: For more information, contact Professor Wayne Bryden (telephone 07 5460 1257) or Anthony Smith (telephone 0409 265 587).