The NSW Government is responding to the risk of foot and mouth disease (FMD) and lumpy skin disease (LSD), hosting a series of free workshops across the state to work with landholders to raise awareness, prevention, and surveillance of emergency animal diseased.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson announced that Local Land Services would be coming to Tamworth on Tuesday, 23 August to give local farmers the tools they need to identify and prevent FMD and LSD should it reach Australian shores.

“Our region is built on a billion-dollar protein industry with global food processors choosing Tamworth for the quality of product,” Mr Anderson said.

“FMD would be devastating for local farmers and a huge hit to our local economy so it’s important that we give our farmers the tools they need to protect themselves against these diseases should they enter the country.”

Local Land Services is holding a workshop for landholders at Tamworth Agricultural Institute from 11:00am – 1:00pm on the 23^rd of August through which landholders will:

· Learn more about the current status of FMD and lumpy skin disease

· Find out how to identify these diseases and know what to do if they suspect cases

· Find out what they can do on their farm

· Hear what LLS does to prevent Emergency Animal Diseases

· Hear about the work of LLS in feral animal control

“This is a gret opportunity for local landholders to learn more about the disease, free of charge so I would encourage them to jump online and register for the event as soon as possible,” Mr Anderson added.

Regisration for the free workshops is critical and can be done online here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/emergency-animal-disease-workshop-tamworth-tickets-394926946127?aff=odcleoeventsincollection&keep_tld=1