On Aug. 30 in New South Wales, the news wasn’t good. According to a press release by Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald, a total of eight out of 10 Thoroughbreds from a stable at Randwick Racecourse have tested positive to equine Influenza. There are 488 infected horses on 41 known properties in New South Wales, with an additional 1,646 suspected of having influenza on 100 other properties.

“However, we can confirm that test results from Dubbo, Newcastle, Rosehill, and Warwick Farm are all clear,” Macdonald said. “There’s no doubt the confirmed positive results unfortunately will wreak havoc on the Sydney spring racing carnival at Randwick and cause massive problems for the state’s multi-billion racing industry.

“I have met with racing officials today to discuss our options and I am seeking an urgent meeting with Federal Agriculture Minister Peter McGauran to see just what the Commonwealth can do to help,” added Macdonald.

He said influenza is “also posing a major problem for the many leisure horse enthusiasts” in New South Wales