Racing Queensland received notification on Wednesday that Biosecurity Queensland is managing a Hendra virus incident in the Brisbane Valley.

A thoroughbred broodmare was noticeably unwell early on the weekend and was put down on Monday.  Samples collected for Hendra virus testing returned a positive result.

As well as broodmares, the property also contains two thoroughbreds in race training, and, in order to safeguard the health and safety of other industry participants, RQ chairman of stewards Wade Birch ordered an assessment of the property and horses to be carried out by RQ chief veterinary surgeon Dr Martin Lenz.

Lenz carried out the assessment on Wednesday morning and concluded that the risks to other racing industry participants were minimal at this stage.  RQ commends Biosecurity Queensland on their brisk and comprehensive emergency response and looks forward to ongoing close co-operation as this response continues.

The property is currently under quarantine and Biosecurity Queensland is conducting tracing and monitoring activities.  While under quarantine, restrictions apply to moving horses and horse materials on and off the infected property.

RQ advises vaccination is the single most effective way of reducing the risk of Hendra virus infection in horses.  More information about Hendra virus can be viewed at:  www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au