Aquatic Animal Health

This project is concerned with enhancing the emergency disease response capability of the Department of Fisheries and industry bodies associated with non-maxima oyster culture.

Relatively few major disease outbreaks have occurred within the WA aquaculture industries and as a result there has been limited opportunity for an integrated multi-agency approach. The Department has also been fortunate that the remote and isolated nature of most of WA has not seriously affected the limited emergencies so far experienced. Simulation exercises provide a practical method of exposing and training staff in the management of aquatic disease emergencies.

An exercise was held in November 2002 at Geraldton, with the active involvement of the Department of Agriculture and AMWING, the industry body representing non-maxima pearl oyster producers.

The project will:

o Increase knowledge of emergency management procedures within WA Fisheries and within the non-maxima oyster industry.
o Improve WA Government and industry emergency management procedures.
o Incorporate outcomes into the development of environmental management systems by non-maxima industry that is being undertaken as part of Environment Australia eco-efficiency program.

Time : due for completion in 2004.