A bird flu control area around Meredith has been lifted, after the first case of avian influenza was detected at an egg farm in May this year.
Agriculture Victoria put the control area in place following the outbreak which spread to seven properties, with just one property still in the last stages of quarantine.
The lifting of the quarantine zone means permits are no longer required to move birds, poultry products or equipment allowing commercial and non-commercial businesses and properties to operate freely.
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said that an evidence-based approach has identified minimal remaining risk, allowing the Control Area Order to be lifted two weeks ahead of schedule.
“We are very grateful for the support from communities and industry who have provided information, taken part in testing and followed movement controls to ensure we could respond effectively to this outbreak,” Dr Cooke said.
“While we anticipate the resolution of all properties by the end of this year, the response will continue to wind down until national proof of freedom from avian influenza is declared.”
No new avian influenza cases have been detected since June 24, but Agriculture Victoria has urged bird owners to maintain good biosecurity practices on their properties.
This includes keeping poultry sheds, yards, aviaries and equipment clean and excluding wild birds from feed and drinking water.
