With this year’s horse events calendar rapidly filling up across Queensland, Australia, equestrian competitors and event organizers are being reminded of the importance of a carefully thought out biosecurity plan.

Queensland Chief Veterinary Officer Rick Symons, BVSc, MBA, PhD, said a biosecurity plan is essential to minimizing the risk of horse pests and diseases, including hendra virus.

"There are some major events coming up, so it´s timely to remind people of the importance of good biosecurity measures," Symons said. "There are a number of transmissible diseases which affect horses and biosecurity plans are a way of reducing the risks from these and providing comfort for competitors.

"Biosecurity Queensland works closely with equestrian groups and can provide the latest advice on what risk reduction steps to take when organizing an event," he added