WA Horse Council

09/03/2025

Fantastic! We look forward to the Cook Government’s commitment to animal welfare in Western Australia. This includes collaboration with the RSPCA, improving road safety and emergency services for companion animals, horses, and wildlife, as well as supporting the development, preservation, and maintenance of tracks and trails for horses in WA.

Waking up very grateful to the West Swan and WA community for the trust they have placed in our Government.

I’m excited to get back to work for the people of Western Australia.

But first, some family time and a quick walk of our dog “99” (yes, I do love Get Smart!)

09/03/2025

📢 WA Horse Council - Bringing Animal Emergency Education to WA! 🐴🚨🌏

The first International Animal Rescue Conference organized by BARTA was in Prague (2015) and played a key role in bringing animal emergency response education to Western Australia. Among the attendees were Diane Bennitt (catch her at 3:43 in the video below), helping to pave the way for what would become the WA Horse Council’s involvement in large animal emergency incident management skills and education.

At the conference, BEVA President, Professor Josh Slater (now AEIMN Chair), highlighted the urgent need for veterinary professionals to be trained in emergency response—something traditional university curricula didn’t fully prepare them for.

It was at this event that Josh Slater and Jim Green began shaping their vision for a cohesive, multi-agency approach to animal rescue and emergency management in the UK—a vision that has since influenced training programs worldwide, including here in WA!

🌍 BARTA is now expanding this vision globally, establishing an International Community of Practice.

Formed at the 2024 BARTA Conference, this new International Community of Practice (Incidents Involving Animals) is a support network for all those involved in planning for and responding to emergencies and disasters that affect people and animals. The group ensures that professionals in animal emergency response, veterinary care, and disaster management have access to a global network for mutual awareness, support, and development.

📌 Interested in being part of this international movement? Join the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals shaping the future of animal emergency management!

🔗 Check out the video and see how it all started!
👉 https://www.bartacic.org/resource/seminars-and-conferences/

09/03/2025

📢 WA Horse Council - Sharing an Important Event for Our Friends at AEIMN! 🐴🌏🚨

The Animal Emergency Incident Management Network (AEIMN) Conference is coming up on 9-10 May 2025 at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand! 🇳🇿

This must-attend event brings together leading experts, practitioners, and stakeholders in animal emergency management from across Australia and New Zealand. With a focus on enhancing response capabilities, improving best practices, and fostering collaboration, the conference features:

✅ Expert presentations & panels 🎤
✅ Practical demonstrations 🚨
✅ Networking with industry leaders 🤝
✅ Special international guest Jim Green from the British Animal Rescue & Trauma Care Assoc. (BARTA) 🇬🇧

The event welcomes emergency services, veterinarians, vet professionals, government officials, animal response teams, policymakers, equine sport officials (racing, eventing, etc.), tertiary educators, and interested community members.

🔗 More details & Jim Green’s bio: https://www.aeimanz.org/conference2025

🎟 Tickets in AUD | 18+ event
📅 Dates: Friday 9 - Saturday 10 May 2025 (UTC+13)
📍 Location: Massey University, Palmerston North, NZ

This is an incredible opportunity to advance animal emergency response knowledge and connect with like-minded professionals. Don’t miss out!

25/02/2025

🚗🐴 WA Horse Council Celebrates the Launch of Pass Wide and Slow New Zealand's Website! 🏇🌏

We’re thrilled to see Pass Wide and Slow New Zealand (PWASNZ) take a huge step forward in empowering road riders with the launch of their new website! 🎉

💛 Kotahitanga – Unity in Action! 💛

PWASNZ Kaupapa lead Julia McLean says:
"We are a small team of road safety advocates who have worked hard to create an informative, professional, and empowering platform that is supported by the horse riding community to improve our safety on the roads."

👏 Let’s all and support this movement! Whether it’s sharing the website, spreading the message in newsletters, or raising awareness in your community, every action makes a difference.

Check out the new website and help create safer roads for horses and riders! 🐎💛

19/02/2025

🌿 Spring is on its way! 🌿

Dr. Jennifer Proctor’s recent webinar highlighted the importance of early recognition of pain in horses—especially gut-related issues, laminitis, and discomfort in older horses.

🧐 Be proactive! If you're looking for a resource to help you spot signs of pain before they become serious problems, check out this Equine Pain Scale from Colorado State University. Print it, laminate it, and keep it in your barn for quick reference!

📌 Download here:https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/.../equine-pain-scale.pdf

17/02/2025

🌟 Celebrating Our Life Member, Diane Bennit! 🌟

The WA Horse Council is proud to recognize Diane Bennit for her outstanding contributions to the horse industry and her dedication to equestrian sport and welfare.

Diane’s equestrian journey has been nothing short of remarkable (see article below), competing across Australia and overseas in show jumping and dressage, as well as securing victories in Western Riding events. She also made history by winning the inaugural Power Puff Derby—the first Ladies Race at Ascot Racecourse. 🏇✨

Beyond competition, Diane continues to give back to the community through her volunteer work with Pony Club and Riding for the Disabled. She is also a respected judge across breed and showing classes, dressage, and show jumping.

For many, Diane has been the voice of the horse industry, hosting Talking Horses and Horses Hotline on radio (which she created and the WA Horse Council supported), sharing her knowledge and passion with listeners across the state. 🎙️🐴

Diane’s commitment to equine welfare extends to her work as chair for many years of the WA Horse Council, where she has been instrumental in bringing Large Animal Rescue training courses and equipment to Western Australia.

We are honored to have Diane as a Life Member of the WA Horse Council and deeply appreciate her contributions to the equestrian community. Thank you, Diane, for everything you do! 💙🏇👏

17/02/2025

🐴 Join the RSPCA Animal Welfare Seminar 2025 🐴

The WA Horse Council encourages all those passionate about animal ethics and welfare to register for the RSPCA Animal Welfare Seminar 2025, taking place online on February 19–20. This free event features leading experts in animal ethics discussing foundational principles, applied animal welfare challenges, and the evolving legal landscape of animal sentience.

📢 Key topics include:
✅ The history and psychology of animal ethics
✅ Ethical dilemmas in animal research and agriculture
✅ The welfare of wild animals, racing animals, and companion animals
✅ Thought-provoking panel discussions

💡 Why attend?
This is a fantastic opportunity for horse owners, industry professionals, and animal welfare advocates to engage with cutting-edge discussions on ethical decision-making in animal care.

📅 Event Details:
🗓 Dates: Wednesday, 19 February & Thursday, 20 February 2025
📍 Location: Online (via Demio)
💲 Cost: FREE!

🔗 Register now and receive your Unique Join Link via email. You’ll also get reminders 24 hours and 1 hour before the seminar starts.

👉 Check out the program and speakers here:https://rspca.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/public/Uploads/AWS-2025-Program.pdf

📢 Help us spread the word! Tag your colleagues and friends who might be interested in this important discussion on animal ethics and welfare.

We look forward to seeing you there!

🐎 WA Horse Council

16/02/2025

🌟 Horse Industry Supporting Each Other 🌟

A huge thank you to the Port Hedland Pony Club for reaching out and sharing updates on the local equestrian community during Cyclone Zelia . It’s heartening to see the Port Hedland Turf Club stepping up and opening their cyclone proof stables to provide a safe haven for evacuated horses.

In times of need, the horse industry comes together—supporting one another, ensuring the safety of our horses, and demonstrating true community spirit. 🐴💙

Country racing in Western Australia plays a crucial role in disaster response and community support, particularly during cyclones, bushfires, and evacuations. The strong network of race clubs, trainers, and equestrian facilities across regional areas ensures that horse owners, trainers, and pony clubs have a place to safely relocate their horses in times of crisis.

How Country Racing Supports the Equine Community in Emergencies

1. Providing Safe Shelter & Stabling
Country race clubs often open their stables and facilities to horse owners fleeing from natural disasters.
Tracks with on-site facilities (e.g., Broome, Geraldton, Northam, Kalgoorlie) serve as temporary evacuation centers for horses displaced by cyclones or floods.
Pony clubs and private racehorse trainers collaborate to share space, ensuring equines have adequate shelter, food, and water.

2. Assisting During Cyclones & Severe Weather Events
During cyclone seasons in northern WA, race clubs like Broome and Port Hedland are critical in housing evacuated horses.
Stable managers and club officials coordinate with emergency services to ensure safe transport routes and alternative shelter if needed.

3. Emergency Response & Resource Sharing
Race clubs work together, providing extra feed, bedding, and water for evacuated horses.
Trainers and club members often assist with transporting horses when owners are struggling to relocate their animals.
Veterinarians, farriers, and equine professionals connected to race clubs offer support and emergency care.

4. Supporting Recovery & Rebuilding Efforts
After disasters, country racing communities raise funds and donate supplies to help impacted horse owners rebuild their stables and care for their animals.
Some clubs hold charity race meets or fundraising events to assist affected trainers and pony clubs.

Examples of Racing Clubs Helping in Emergencies
Broome Turf Club has supported local equestrians during cyclone evacuations, offering safe stabling for horses and ponies.
Esperance Bay Turf Club played a key role in bushfire evacuations, assisting local horse owners with shelter and logistics.
Geraldton & Kalgoorlie race clubs have historically stepped in during storms, ensuring racing and non-racing horses alike have a secure place to stay.

Why This Support System is Vital
Many country race clubs are located in high-risk areas for cyclones, fires, and floods, making their infrastructure essential for emergency preparedness.

Racing communities understand the logistics of moving large numbers of horses, making them effective in crisis situations.
Their willingness to help not just fellow racehorse owners but also pony clubs, hobby owners, and equestrian groups strengthens the regional equine network.

The Need for Continued Support
To enhance these efforts, government and racing bodies should:

Recognize race clubs as official equine evacuation centers in disaster planning.
Provide funding for emergency infrastructure, such as reinforced stables, water tanks, and feed storage.
Strengthen communication channels between racing clubs, pony clubs, and emergency services.
This spirit of camaraderie and mutual support makes country racing an irreplaceable part of WA’s equine community, ensuring horses and their owners have a safety net when disasters strike.

14/02/2025

🐴🐶 Animal Welfare & Tropical Cyclone Zelia – Important Information 🌀

With Severe Tropical Cyclone Zelia impacting WA, it’s crucial to ensure the safety of all animals—pets, livestock, and wildlife. Here’s what you need to know:

🔹 Before the Cyclone:

✔️ Secure animals in a safe, sheltered location away from flood-prone areas.
✔️ Stock up on food, water, and medical supplies for at least a week.
✔️ Ensure animals have proper identification (tags, microchips, brands) in case of separation.
✔️ Move livestock to higher ground if flooding is expected.

🔹 During the Cyclone:

✔️ Keep pets indoors and provide a secure, comfortable area.
✔️ Do not tether or confine animals in areas where they could become trapped.
✔️ Stay updated on emergency alerts and evacuation routes that allow animals.

🔹 After the Cyclone:

✔️ Watch out for sharp debris, fallen power lines, and contaminated water that could harm animals.
✔️ Check fences and enclosures for damage before releasing animals.
✔️ If an animal is injured or displaced, contact local veterinarians, shelters, or emergency services.
✔️ Report injured or distressed wildlife to wildlife rescue organizations.

For official updates and emergency animal welfare support, follow:
🐾 Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)
🐾 RSPCA WA
🐾 DFES Emergency Animal Welfare Contacts

Stay safe, and take care of your animals during this extreme weather event!

14/02/2025

🚨 WATCH LIVE: DFES & Bureau of Meteorology Press Conference 🚨

A media conference with Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm and Bureau of Meteorology General Manager Environmental Prediction Services Matthew Collopy is set to begin at 12:30 PM WST.

They will provide the latest updates on Tropical Cyclone Zelia, including its current impact, forecast, and emergency response measures.

🔴 Watch the live press conference here: https://www.watoday.com.au/national/western-australia/cyclone-zelia-live-updates-port-hedland-emergency-warning-issued-as-category-5-storm-approaches-wa-s-north-coast-20250214-p5lc35.html

Stay informed and follow official updates from DFES and the Bureau of Meteorology. Please take all necessary precautions and stay safe.

Residents in Port Hedland and surrounding areas have been ordered to stay indoors and shelter as winds pick up, with the centre expected to cross the coast this afternoon.

13/02/2025

WA HORSE COUNCIL ADVISORY NOTICE
Severe Tropical Cyclone Zelia – Urgent Notice for Horse Owners

Date: 13/2/25 10 AM Issued by: WA Horse Council & Committee for Animal Welfare in Emergencies (CAWE)

As members of the Committee for Animal Welfare in Emergencies (CAWE), the WA Horse Council has been advised of the development of Severe Tropical Cyclone Zelia, which is expected to make landfall as a Category 5 system between Port Hedland and Karratha tomorrow afternoon.

This system has triggered State-level Emergency Management Readiness Arrangements, and the forecast impact area remains uncertain due to slow movement and potential direction changes.

URGENT ACTION REQUIRED – HORSE OWNERS & EQUINE BUSINESSES

Horse owners in the affected regions should act immediately to ensure the safety of their animals.

1. Evacuate Early if Possible

If safe transport is available, relocate horses to a secure inland area away from cyclone impact zones.

Contact local equine facilities or evacuation centers to arrange shelter.

2. Prepare to Shelter in Place if Necessary

Identify the safest paddock:

High ground with minimal debris.

Secure fencing (avoid barbed wire, as it poses a risk in high winds).

Away from trees and loose structures.

Do not keep horses confined in small stables or yards where they could be trapped.

3. Secure Essential Supplies

At least 3–5 days’ worth of feed and water stored in waterproof containers.

First aid kit with basic veterinary supplies.

Identification:

Microchip your horses or attach identification tags to halters.

Spray paint contact details on the horse’s body as an emergency measure.

4. Monitor Weather and Emergency Updates

Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): www.bom.gov.au for cyclone tracking.

Emergency WA: www.emergency.wa.gov.au for evacuation and response updates.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD): www.agric.wa.gov.au for animal welfare guidance.

WA Horse Council Readiness & Support

The WA Horse Council works with, CAWE, DPIRD, and the Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association (KPCA) to coordinate animal welfare support.

If the State Support Plan for Animal Welfare in Emergencies is activated, we will provide further instructions regarding relocation, emergency veterinary assistance, and feed/water supply points.

For official DPIRD guidance on equine cyclone preparedness, please review the following resource:https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/sites/gateway/files/Cyclone%20-%20Horses.pdf

22/01/2025

From Paula Vaughn and the Shire of Serpentine/Jarrahdale:

New horse trails are coming to Jarrahdale, setting the stage for the town to become a Horse Trail Town and boosting its potential as a nationally significant equestrian destination! 🏇

🏞️ In partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), the Shire is constructing two amazing new trails in the rehabilitated forest of Langford Park:
✨ 5km Easy Trail – perfect for casual riders and beginners
✨ 25km Endurance Trail – for the adventurous spirit

We’re thrilled to have Three Chillies Design leading the creation of these spectacular trails, with progress already underway for this year’s highly anticipated launch! 🚴‍♀️🐎

Stay tuned for updates as we get ready to saddle up and hit the trails! 🤠

18/01/2025

🌏 Exciting First Steps for the InCOP International Community of Practice! 🌟

A huge thank you to everyone who joined the inaugural online meeting hosted by BARTA and chaired by Dr. Josh Slater (AEIMN, University of Melbourne). Despite the challenges of coordinating across time zones, your participation and enthusiasm were inspiring!

During the session, we shared the vision for this innovative International Community of Practice (InCOP) and explored how it will foster collaboration, engagement, and knowledge sharing across borders.

🎥 Missed the meeting?
No problem! You can:

Download the presentation (PDF link below).
Watch the full recording (approximately 1 hour).

📝 Want to get involved?
https://www.bartacic.org/conference/our-first-online-meeting/
We’d love to hear from you! Complete the feedback form to express your interest and share details about your current situation. Simply scan the QR code provided below.

We’re thrilled about the future of this community and the opportunities it brings to connect, learn, and grow together. Your knowledge and skills will be invaluable in making this initiative a success!

📌 Stay tuned for updates and upcoming activities!

The InCOP Interim Focus group would like to extend a huge thank you to all who attended the recent inaugural online meeting where we outlined the vision for our International Community of Practice, particularly as time zones meant it was challenging for some! For the many who couldn’t make it, the...

18/01/2025

🌟 Thank You to DDRA and Partners for Enhancing Trail Safety! 🌟

The WA Horse Council extends a heartfelt thank you to Bruce Hilliard, the Darling Downs Residents Association (DDRA), and Chris Eden-Street of Rod's Equine Solutions for their outstanding efforts in improving the safety of the Comic Loop South Trail at the Darling Downs Equestrian Park (DDEP).

✨ New Safety Fence Installed
The recently added safety fence on the northern side of the crossover point addresses a significant hazard—a deep drainage ditch—making the trail much safer for horses and riders alike.

This project is a fantastic example of the equestrian community coming together to prioritize safety and well-being. The DDRA has also contributed to other safety fencing efforts at the DDEP, creating a safer environment for all users.

👏 A special thanks to Chris Eden-Street for the professional installation of this critical safety feature.

Together, we can ensure our equestrian trails remain safe and enjoyable for everyone!

📸 Check out the photos of the new fence below!

16/01/2025

🎉 A big THANK YOU to Echo News for featuring a cartoon flashback of our Large Animal Rescue Best Practices Training Seminar at the State Equestrian Centre, Brigadoon, in this week’s edition! 🐴🚨

This memorable event, originally held on Aug 23-24th, 2023, brought together over 50 Rangers and Emergency Personnel for essential hands-on training in large animal rescue techniques with Dr HHayley Squance Animal Emergency Management
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to all participants, trainers, and supporters who made the seminar a success, helping to ensure the safety and welfare of animals in emergency situations. Together, we’re building a stronger, more prepared community. 💪💙

Check out Echo News this week to relive the moment!

12/01/2025

🚨 Webinar Update! 🚁🐴

Dr. John Madigan, graciously invited the Australian Emergency Incident Management Network (AEIMN) to participate and now to share the webinar from the American Association of Equine Practitioners with our equine community in AUS/NZ.

Topic: Helicopter Airlift of Equines – Rescue and Transportation: An International Perspective

🗓️ Date: December 10th, 2024

🌍 Speakers:

Dr. John Madigan: Emeritus Distinguished Professor, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Colonel Stephane Montavon: Chief Veterinary Officer, Swiss Armed Forces
Dr. Monica Aleman: Professor, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine (Equine Neurology & Emergency Care)

We’re thrilled to highlight that UC Davis Veterinary School has recently received the Swiss Sling, an innovative new tool with significant advantages over the Anderson Sling. It requires fewer people to operate and is easier to transport to emergency sites—game-changing features for equine and wildlife rescue operations.

🙏 A huge thank you to Drs. Madigan,Montavon, and Aleman, the WA Horse Council, and the AEIMN for their dedication to improving animal welfare through education and equipment development across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

📩 Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best in the field!

📌https://replay.dropbox.com/share/gAxG2Xx9T7eoYwLr

Together, let’s advance animal welfare and emergency response globally. 🌏🐴