Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) welcomed Thursday’s announcement of support for voluntary Equine Influenza vaccinations by the Federal Minister for Agriculture.

In a statement issued by CEO Peter McGauran, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia congratulated Minister Tony Burke for his strength of character in reaching a considered position after months of scientific enquiry.

McGauran said the Australian veterinary profession has largely fallen far behind international developments on the preventative measures used to minimise the risk of EI.

EI vaccination for thoroughbreds occurs all around the world without difficultly or mishap and it is a matter of puzzlement in international circles why the Australian industry has been prevented from taking the necessary steps to safeguard its own future.  Surveillance systems ensure that there is regular monitoring of thoroughbreds to detect any early signs of EI and containment strategies immediately implemented.

In short, voluntary vaccination allows thoroughbred horse to move during an EI outbreak enabling the continuation of racing and breeding.  The experience of vaccinated populations overseas is that the majority of horses continue to travel to the races and for breeding purposes during an EI outbreak which can be confined to specific farms or stables.

Let the thoroughbred industry secure its future at its own expense.  No other horse industry has to vaccinate if they don’t believe it in their interests to do so.

The thoroughbred industry could not endure another EI outbreak without massive job losses and economic hardship.  A multi billion dollar industry employing 200,000 people and providing governments with hundreds of millions of dollars in essential revenue is entitled to take measures at its own expense to safeguard its and the public’s interests.

There is too much at stake for this vital contributor to regional, state and national economies for its future to be decided by sectors of the horse population with no comparable economic loss in the event of another restriction on the movement of horses.

In no other sector of the economy could an industry of the size and importance of the thoroughbred industry have its future economic security determined by non professional or recreational interests.

It is the strong view of Australia’s breeders that a relatively inexpensive vaccination (approximately $150 per year) is both their right and need to secure their industry’s future.

Voluntary EI vaccination is essential insurance to protect the livelihoods of the more than 200,000 people working in the racing and breeding industries.