TBQA PRESIDENT ACCUSES SOUTHERN STUDS OF OVER-REACTION
QUEENSLAND breeders invest thousands of dollars each year in reproduction with the hope of big returns in the sales ring or racetrack.But those interested in the prestigious Hunter Valley sires have hit a hurdle.
Darley Stud is demanding mares be subjected to a $100 test for Hendra Virus before they're allowed on the property, while a number of other studs won't allow Queensland mares to stay overnight.
That presents obvious ramifications for breeders who have to travel so far for a service.The demands have angered the TBQA President, Bob Frappell.
"Not only is it an over reaction, it's an uninformed reaction they really don't know enough about the disease," he said.
"We've taken the steps to educate our members. Their (the Souths) concerns are unfounded."
Mr Frappell said they're turning Queensland horses away, yet ironically, the Hunter Valley is riddled with strangles, an upper respiratory disease that can be fatal to young horses and spreads rampantly
"Once a horse gets it it's very easy spread to the next horse either by human contact, or horse to horse and there's no way, once you get it into your stud you can get it off until everything has had it," he said.
But the knee-jerk reaction from the South, could work in Queenslands' Studs favour.
"We're hoping that it affects us really well, because people will be annoyed with them and not send their mares, and instead send them to our Queensland stallions," said Mr Frappell.
The TBQA is hosting a Hendra Virus Information Seminar from 10am at UQ Gatton on Sunday October 25th. It's $25 for members, $30 non-members, with a BBQ lunch and drinks provided.
Bookings are essential by contacting the TBQA by October 10th.
