Carnival heats up as horses clear quarantine

The best international runners are raring to go after clearing the hurdle of post-arrival biosecurity quarantine.

Twenty-three international racehorses arrived in Australia for the Victorian Spring Racing Carnival and the Sydney Everest Carnival.

They have completed their quarantine at Werribee International Horse Centre in Victoria and Canterbury Park International Horse Centre in Sydney.

Biosecurity Deputy Secretary Dr Chris Locke said biosecurity was an important, if understated, part of the spring carnival every year.

“Every year the focus is on the favourites, but at the department our focus is on making sure international racehorses can take part in Australia’s racing season, without posing a biosecurity threat to the Australian horse industry,” Dr Locke said.

“When racehorses come to Australia, they’re required to complete 14 days of post-arrival quarantine. It’s the standard for any equine and allows us to monitor for any signs of illness.

“Obviously these horses need to be exercised daily, especially in the lead up to the racing season. It’s fortunate we can rely on Approved Arrangements sites like Werribee and Canterbury Park.

“These are privately owned, government approved and audited quarantine facilities where horses can continue track work while in quarantine.

“Without these facilities, we wouldn’t have the opportunity to see international talent take part in the Australian spring racing season.

“It’s a reminder that biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, even if you are the bookie’s favourite.”

Images of some of the thoroughbreds in quarantine can be viewed here: https://f.io/Cav6rPW3. Please credit all images to Racing Photos when publishing.