Vote now on Western OJD status review

Sheep producers are asked to vote now on whether they want the ovine Johne’s disease (OJD) Exclusion Area status to be continued for the Western Livestock Health and Pest Authority.

Ann Duryea, Western LHPA general manager, says the whole Western LHPA district has had an OJD Exclusion Area status for 6 years.

"The Western OJD Exclusion Area was initially set up at the request of sheep producers. The program has been managed locally, with the LHPA providing advice on trading and undertaking action when an infection or suspected infection occurs," said Mrs Duryea.

"That status is now due for renewal and we are asking producers to vote on whether the Exclusion Area should be continued."

Voting papers were posted to sheep producers last week. Responses are due back to the Western LHPA by 24 June (may be postmarked on 24 June). Votes received via email or fax will also be accepted.

"We are asking producers with more than 50 sheep to vote for or against the Exclusion Area renewal,” Mrs Duryea said.

"For the Exclusion Area to be renewed at least 50 per cent of sheep producers must vote and 50 per cent of those votes must be in favour. So it is very important that sheep producers cast their vote.

"The Exclusion Area program aims to minimise the risk of OJD being introduced into the Western LHPA and therefore avoid the costs to producers of disease control, as well as maximising trade advantages."

If you would like more information, contact your local office of the Western LHPA.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378