You're invited to the Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and Biosecurity Preparedness Workshop, hosted by experienced zoo, wildlife and exotic animal veterinarians Dr David Blyde and Dr Michelle Campbell from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI).

Zoo, fauna park and mobile zoo exhibitors and their staff are invited to a Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and biosecurity preparedness workshop with David, Michelle and other NSW DPI staff. The half day workshop will provide valuable insights and training on emergency animal disease preparedness, as well as specific information on FMD and its relevance to your industry.

FMD affects all cloven-hoofed animals, including some zoo animals such as giraffe, Asian elephants, Himalayan tahr, Barbary sheep, antelopes, banteng, alpacas, goats, sheep and pigs. There are implications for other species and business operations as well.

The workshop will enhance the understanding of FMD and other emergency animal disease threats for the zoo and wildlife industries and ensure that fixed and mobile exhibitors that hold susceptible species are adequately informed, prepared, and supported.

The workshop is aimed at all staff that work within a zoo, fauna park or mobile zoo operation including zookeepers, grounds and maintenance staff, veterinary staff, those responsible for purchasing feed and supplies as well as supervisors, managers and policy makers.

The workshop content will be consistent with the principles outlined in the National Zoo Biosecurity Manual, but with a NSW and FMD focus.

During the workshop, participants will:

a) learn ways to prepare for an emergency animal disease incursion in NSW

b) receive a Zoo Biosecurity Management Planner and be assisted to work through the document for their work site.

c) have the opportunity to discuss FMD and other disease concerns with industry experts and colleagues.

The workshop is free to attend, and both NSW and interstate zoo staff are welcome to participate. Lunch and morning/afternoon tea will be provided.

If you work in NSW and need to travel to attend the workshop, NSW DPI may be able to assist with travel and/or accommodation costs in accordance with NSW government policy. Please select this option when you register and a NSW DPI officer will be in contact to discuss your travel requirements.

Spots are limited so please register now to avoid missing out on this unique professional development opportunity.