The crisis gripping cattle producers in northern Queensland who remain subject to movement restrictions under the state’s Bovine Johne’s Disease control program continues to intensify in the face of drought.

Affected producers are unable to feed cattle but are also severely restricted in their ability to move stock under the state’s BJD policy which aims to prevent the possible spread of the disease.

The scope of the problem has prompted Queensland agriculture minister John McVeigh, who is attending a beef industry crisis meeting in Richmond today, to issue a plea for lotfeeders, backgrounders and producers with grass to register to provide feeding options for affected producers. 

The Queensland Government has employed a livestock agent to coordinate the movement of cattle and is using a database to match affected producers with feeding operations as they register.

“As the industry is painfully aware, a number of producers affected by BJD, particularly those located in the north and north west of the state, are unable to feed cattle due to movement restrictions and a failed wet season,” Mr McVeigh said in a press statement.

“I have taken every opportunity in my discussions with the industry since last year to explain that these producers need support. I stress that they need it and they need it now – others in the industry can support in very practical and low risk ways.

“As such, feedlotters, backgrounders and grass fatteners who have capacity to take cattle are being urged to immediately register their details on a new database designed to help match feeding operations to BJD affected producers.

Affected producers who need to move cattle also have to register their need through their Biosecurity Queensland case manager, or by contacting the Department (details below story)

Mr McVeigh also urged BJD affected producers to access the expert advice available to help them make decisions about their livestock management and movement options.

“We recognise that producers have some tough decisions to make but I stress that they don’t have to make them on their own,” he said.

“Experienced staff from the Department and from Animal Health Australia can give advice about short-term herd management options and long-term strategies to recover from the disease.

“These officers use a range of decision-making support tools such as Breedcow/Dynama and Testing Management Options to help affected producers make informed decisions.

“Affected producers should make sure they have all the information available to them and consider all options before making decisions about their property management.”

Mr McVeigh said affected cattle producers may also be eligible to apply for Sustainability Loans of up to $650,000 to assist with productivity improvements.

“These loans are administered by QRAA and are offered at concessional rates, no fees or charges are incurred,” he said.

“The term of the loan will be determined by the activities being undertaken with a maximum term of 20 years.

Affected producers can also continue to apply for support through the National bovine Johne's disease Financial and Non-Financial Assistance Package through Animal Health Australia.

Mr McVeigh said work between Government and industry was continuing on the development of the Queensland Cattle Industry Biosecurity Fund to support affected producers. Details will be announced in the near future.

Contact information:

• Operators who can help feed cattle can register and get further details at www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 25 23.

• Producers looking for information on Sustainability Loans can contact QRAA directly to discuss their individual circumstances on Freecall 1800 623 946.

• BJD counsellors can also be accessed through National Bovine Johne’s Disease Financial and Non-Financial Assistance program at www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au.