Queensland beef producers have been left in the dark over proposed changes to the Northern Territory Government Gazette which will come into effect on July 1.
The changes look set to impact some landholders moving alpacas, buffalo, cattle or goats from Queensland across the border into the Northern Territory.
The Gazette states Queensland producers must ensure livestock are declared free from Johne’s Disease for the preceding five years, have a herd score of J-BAS 7 or higher and are accompanied by a National Cattle Health Declaration.
Most producers were automatically rolled over to a J-BAS 7 during the roll out of the Johne’s management system but some producers remain unaware it is a temporary arrangement until June 30.
Livestock Biosecurity Network biosecurity extension manager, Rachael O’Brien, said to retain J-BAS 7 status after June 30, producers must have a biosecurity plan in place with an ongoing triennial check test.
“I'm unsure if these changes are well known to producers yet but they need to start preparing in case these changes do occur if they want to continue to access the Northern Territory markets, including live exports,” she said.
“If Queensland producers are unsure as to where to start, Livestock Biosecurity Network can assist producers by providing information and templates to implement biosecurity plans on their properties.
“From now on producers will need to send National Health Statements in addition to their NVD Waybills and Northern Territory Health Certificates with their livestock when they send them over the border.
“This change outlined in the Gazette is in effect now. National Health Statements can be found on the Farm Biosecurity website.
“I am happy to discuss this further with producers and to provide further information as more information is finalised by the Northern Territory.”
Cattle tick entry requirements have also been amended in the latest gazette.
Owners transporting livestock from the infested zone must ensure clean inspection and supervised treatment of the livestock by an accredited certifier.
Landholders moving stock from the free zone must ensure the livestock do not travel on the hoof or are unloaded through the infested zone whilst enroute to the Northern Territory.
Of 10 landholders contacted with livestock interest in two states, most were all unaware of the opposed changes.