POLICE REMAIN VIGILANT IN CONTROLLING HORSE MOVEMENTS: SPENCE

Queensland police will continue to enforce restrictions on the movement of horses while the threat of Equine Influenza remains, Police Minister Judy Spence said today.

Ms Spence said the charging of a second person for allegedly moving a horse without a permit is a reminder to everyone that restrictions are still in place.

“One man has already appeared in court and was fined $4500 for contravening the ban on horse movements,” Ms Spence said.

“Police have made a total of 75 interceptions on people suspected of moving horses since the outbreak of the horse flu.

“This means police have been making more than two interceptions a day to ensure horses are not being transported in restricted areas.”

Ms Spence said horses can now be transported without problem in the “Green Zone” outside south-east Queensland.

“Anyone can move their horses freely within this zone as long as they complete and carry a waybill which can be downloaded from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries website.”

“There is still a ‘Red Zone” in south-east Queensland and you need a permit from the DPI&F to move your horse and it is illegal to move any horse out of the red zone.”

“Equine Influenza is still spreading in the red zone and police will help enforce these tighter restrictions to help respond to this.”

Ms Spence said police will continue to work with other agencies to ensure the spread of horse flu is contained as quickly as possible.

Media Contact: Troy Davies 3239 6218, 0439 673 287