The Hon Robert Borsak MLC, Shooters Fishers and Farmers Party leader, Media Release, 25 July 2022

Whilst hoping for the best, leader of the Shooters Fishers and Farmers Party Robert Borsak MLC calls on the Government to plan for the worst in preparing for the imminent threat of Foot and Mouth Disease.    

“We are all hoping for the best in shielding our nation from the infection of Foot and Mouth Disease, but our governments need to plan for the worst by implementing a range of measures to protect the valuable bloodlines of our livestock industry,” said Mr Borsak. 

“It’s vitally important we take every measure to prevent Foot and Mouth Disease from breaching our border, which would decimate Australia’s foundational industry while impacting the lives and lifestyles of every Australian. 

“The SFF is calling on the Government to prepare for an eventuality of FMD outbreak by supporting livestock fertility preservation and genetic banking. 

“Generations of farming families have spilled blood, sweat and tears while growing, developing and protecting unique Australian livestock bloodlines. 

“It’s imperative we preserve Australia’s livestock genetics by safely storing fertility components, sperm and eggs.

“Artificial insemination is widely practised in modern Australian farming, and extracting this biological material from livestock is relatively simple and routine; however, government support is needed to provide access for safe deposit and storage of breeders’ valuable genetics.

“In recent years, our farmers have copped everything from drought, flood, rodent infestation, and now, this potentially industry-killing disease. We must plan for the worst case so that we’re in the best position possible to regrow the industry, should it be struck. 

“This Noah’s Ark protection will ensure the genetic legacy and long-term security of Australia’s farming and livestock heritage,” said Mr Borsak.