Losses to the beef industry due to hydatid infection might be greater than previously recognised, was one of the key points made by Cara Wilson during the 2019 Graham Centre Livestock Forum held in Wagga Wagga.
Losses to the beef industry due to hydatid infection might be greater than previously recognised, was one of the key points made by Cara Wilson during the 2019 Graham Centre Livestock Forum held in Wagga Wagga.
Ms Wilson is a doctoral student at Charles Sturt University and the subject of her thesis is the importance of hydatid disease to the Australian beef cattle industry.
"I have prepared a nation-wide survey looking at the knowledge of beef producers' in respect to hydatid disease," she said.
"I am also looking at farm management practices to determine factors which could influence transmission, and to develop cost-effective and practical control practices."
Ms Wilson said it is important for the viability of the beef industry that the knowledge of hydatid disease is understood and measures taken to reduce the incidence.
Her team are seeking producers who are currently involved in the Australian beef industry either as farm owners or managers. To participate in the research, participants must own or manage at least one beast that is, or will be used for beef production, and must be at least 18 years of age.
Ms Wilson notes, "Prior knowledge of hydatid disease is NOT required!!"
At the conclusion of the study, factsheets that summarise the results of the survey will be available.
Ms Wilson requests beef producers respond to her survey on the following link, which closes on 16 August 2019.
