Animal Health Board to sponsor NZYF Annual Conference

The TBfree NZYF Annual Conference is to be held from June 29th to July 3rd alongside The National Bank Young Farmer Contest in Masterton.

New Zealand Young Farmers is pleased to announce that the Animal Health Board (AHB) will sponsor the five-day event that is one of the highlights of the Young Farmer Calendar.

NZYF Manager Sara Russell is pleased to have the support of the AHB and the TBfree scheme.

“The TBfree programme is so important to our industry and we’re really pleased to be able to help promote it nationwide through our country network of Young Farmers and associates.”

AHB Chief Executive William McCook said it is extremely important to get information on the TBfree New Zealand programme out to young farmers.

“The AHB is proud to sponsor the NZYF Annual Conference and be involved with the farmers who will lead our agricultural sector into the future,” Mr McCook said.

Over the past 15 years, TB-infected herd numbers have fallen from 1700 to fewer than 100. While quite an accomplishment for the TBfree programme, it also means many younger farmers are unaware of the risks associated with TB.

“Our partnership with NZYF will help inform young farmers of their TB testing requirements and the disease risks around stock movement and wildlife-related infection,” Mr McCook said.

The AHB manages and implements the TB control programme, known as TBfree New Zealand. Under the revised national TB control strategy, the AHB aims to eradicate the disease from 2.5 million hectares of New Zealand known to contain infected wildlife.

Attendees of the TBfree NZYF Annual Conference will take part in bus trips to local attractions and businesses, attend workshops, compete in national competitions and most importantly contribute to the Annual General Meeting on Saturday July 2nd.