Suspected EI cases in Brisbane

The University has notified the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries that four horses in paddocks at its Pinjarra Hills facility are exhibiting symptoms of equine influenza.

Swabs have been taken from the horses and it is expected that a further five horses in the equine complex will develop symptoms in the next day or so.

University Secretary and Registrar Douglas Porter said precautionary best practice protocols had been implemented, and the University was carefully monitoring a further 16 horses in an isolated part of the 320 hectare facility.

“Our first concerns are the welfare of the horses and to eliminate the spread of equine influenza to any sites away from the facility,” he said.

“The horses are not involved in any teaching programs but several research projects may be impacted until the horses recover.”

Mr Porter said the equine complex on Pinjarra Road was quarantined until further notice and enquiries should be directed to the farm manager Tom Connolly.

Other activities at the Pinjarra Hills facility away from the equine complex would continue, but would be closely monitored. These include the running of a Droughtmaster beef cattle stud, an aquaculture facility, koala research, CRCMining and a subsidiary company.

Media: Further information Jan King 0413 601 248.