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Foot-and-mouth disease
Summer in Australia brings diverse challenges, from extreme heat and bushfires to heavy rainfall and flooding. Ideally, preparation starts before the season begins. But if you haven’t had the chance, January is still a good time to tackle essential jobs that protect your animals, maintain infrastructure, and reduce risks. Strong biosecurity practices remain critical, alongside general summer readiness.
For much of southern Australia, summer is prime grassfire and bushfire season. This is when vegetation is driest, and temperatures are highest. Walk your property boundaries and check that firebreaks are clear, vegetation is slashed back from buildings, and fuel loads are managed. Clean gutters thoroughly and ensure pumps, hoses, and water supplies are ready for firefighting. Review your bushfire survival plan with staff and family members.
Water demand can peak in the hotter months. Check water levels in tanks and dams and implement conservation measures early if supplies are low. Inspect tanks for leaks, clear gutters and downpipes, and ensure pumps and irrigation systems are in good working order. For livestock, confirm all water points are functional and that animals have access to clean water. Dehydration can kill quickly in extreme heat.
Damaged fences allow stock to stray and increase disease risks through contact with neighbouring animals. Check fence lines and repair weak points, especially corners and gateways.
Reliable equipment is essential for tasks like transporting stock or accessing water points during heatwaves. Service machinery and vehicles now to avoid breakdowns during emergencies.
Heat stress, flies, and parasites are prevalent in January. Provide shade and clean water, monitor animals daily for signs of stress or illness, and consider supplementary feeding if pastures are dry. If you don’t have a fly control program in place, the has some great Flystrike tools to get you started. Make sure to keep accurate records of treatments and feeding to support animal health planning.
Visitors can unintentionally introduce pests, diseases, or contaminants to your property. Limit unnecessary access and keep a visitor log to track who enters and why. Provide clear signage and designate parking areas away from livestock zones. If visitors need to enter animal areas, supply clean boots or disposable covers and ensure they follow hygiene protocols. For new or returning animals, use quarantine areas to monitor health before mixing them with your main herd.
Well-maintained infrastructure supports safe and healthy livestock management. Inspect sheds, yards, and water systems for damage that could compromise animal welfare or biosecurity. Repair roofs, gates, and drainage systems before problems escalate.
Update stock records, treatment logs, and biosecurity plans. Accurate records help meet regulatory requirements and improve decision-making for animal health and disease prevention.
If you’re taking a break to visit family or travel, arrange for someone reliable to check stock and water supplies. Even short periods of neglect can lead to serious animal welfare issues. Good neighbour relationships are invaluable for mutual support.
Every task you complete in January — from repairing fences to managing pests — contributes to stronger biosecurity. Preventing disease incursions, maintaining animal welfare, and protecting your property from external risks should remain top priorities. A proactive approach now will pay dividends throughout the year, safeguarding your livestock and your livelihood.
