Hendra Virus Risk Management Protocol

1. Hendra Virus Risk Level at FTPEC

FTPEC is classified as a high-risk Hendra site due to:

a) The presence of native tree species that attract flying-foxes.

b) Horses being permitted to stay overnight on the grounds.

c) Ongoing equestrian activities involving close human–horse contact.

2. Horse Vaccination Requirements

To minimise Hendra virus transmission risk:

b) All horses staying overnight must be up to date with Hendra virus vaccination, unless prior approval has been granted by the Club Committee.

c) Proof of current Hendra vaccination status (Zoetis certificate or veterinarian documentation) must be provided prior to arrival for all overnight horses.

3. Unvaccinated Horses – Conditions of Entry

If a horse is not vaccinated, the following conditions apply:

a) The Club must be notified in advance at the time of entry/nomination or booking.

b) Unvaccinated horses are not permitted to use yards or areas located under or near fruiting or flowering trees.

c) Unvaccinated horses must be yarded only in designated lower-risk areas, as directed by FTPEC.

d) These horses must not stay overnight without prior written approval.

e) Additional biosecurity measures, including segregation and supervised handling protocols, may apply at the Club’s discretion.

4. On-Ground Hygiene and Risk Mitigation Measures

To further reduce risk:

a) Avoid feeding horses under trees, especially those known to attract flying-foxes.

b) Do not leave feed or water buckets exposed overnight in high-risk areas.

c) Remove uneaten feed and clean buckets daily.

d) Report any horse exhibiting signs of illness (particularly fever, nasal discharge, or neurological symptoms) immediately to the event coordinator or Club.

5. Responsibilities of Riders, Owners, Coaches & Ground Hirers

a) All riders and owners are responsible for understanding and adhering to FTPEC’s Hendra protocol.

b) Ground Hirers/ event organisers must ensure that entry conditions clearly state Hendra vaccination requirements and that biosecurity plans are in place for each event.

c) The Club reserves the right to refuse entry or remove any horse from the grounds that does not meet the Hendra safety conditions.

6. Acknowledgement of Risk

By entering the FTPEC grounds, you acknowledge:

a) The presence of Hendra virus risk factors.

b) Your responsibility to follow biosecurity procedures and report any concerns.

c) That failure to comply with this protocol may result in exclusion from events or use of Club facilities.

For more information or to request permission for an unvaccinated horse to attend, please email the Club.

This protocol is subject to updates as new biosecurity guidance becomes available. Please check this page regularly for changes.