In a huge win for the Queensland breeding and racing industry, a parliamentary inquiry has found Hendra Virus vaccinations should not be made mandatory.
That was one of eleven recommendations made by the Agriculture and Environment Committee, following its eight month inquiry into the Hendra Virus vaccine and workplace practices by veterinarians.
"This is great news for breeders, and the racing industry," said TBQA President, Basil Nolan.
"The TBQA was extremely concerned about the financial burden of mandatory vaccination, along with the uncertainty of its effects on broodmares, foals and racehorses.
"The research is still in its infancy, and we felt there was insufficient evidence to force vaccination upon the industry.
"We believe this was more of a revenue raising exercise for vets and the drug manufacturing company."
The TBQA lobbied both the State and Federal Governments extensively for research into HeV and the development of a vaccination, after the death of Rockhampton vet, Alister Rodgers in 2009.
"We were one of the leaders in the fight to find the cause and a treatment for the virus and we definitely do not want to see any more deaths, however we could not support mandatory vaccination," said Mr Nolan.
Mr Nolan acknowledges the dangers vets face when treating sick horses, but said that everyone who has contact with a sick horse, from stud staff to strappers, face the same dangers.
"Everyone needs to be mindful of the deadly Hendra Virus and always wear PPE and follow strict hygiene procedures when treating a horse," said Mr Nolan.
"We are all well aware of this virus now, and we can all take precautions to ensure there are no more fatalities."
The TBQA would like to thank the A&E Committee members, and Chair Glenn Butcher, for their time in conducting this inquiry and their sensible and manageable recommendations.
