In conjunction with the upcoming Barossa Improved Grazing Group (BIGG) Pestivirus workshop on the 22 October, cattle producers are being encouraged to take advantage of a free pestivirus testing initiative. Renowned veterinarian and workshop speaker Dr Enoch Bergman will test herd samples and provide tailored advice on the best strategy to manage pestivirus - at no cost.
The simplest and most effective way to determine if a herd is carrying pestivirus (also known as BVDV) is to blood test a subset of replacement heifers prior to joining. Testing the immunity status of just 5% (or a minimum of six animals) from each replacement group can reveal whether persistently infected (PI) animals are present in the herd. Identifying and removing PIs—or vaccinating animals without prior immunity—is central to controlling pestivirus.
Here are the steps on how producers can take advantage of this opportunity to safeguard their herd and make informed decisions:
- Coordinate with a vet to collect blood samples from 5% or a minimum of six heifers per replacement group. (Sampling costs are the responsibility of the producer).
- Send samples to: Swans Veterinary Services BVDV Lab 33 Shelden Road, Esperance WA 6450 by 15 October 2025.
- Dr Bergman will discuss results and management options—either anonymously or openly—during the workshop.
The BIGG Pestivirus Workshop is a FREE event (inclusive of lunch) to be held at Springton Hall, Springton, between 9.30am to 3.30pm on the 22 October.
This event has been proudly supported by the SA Cattle Industry Fund and PIRSA through the Connecting Communities Events Grant.
This is a Connecting Communities Event sponsored by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions under the Family and Business Support Program as part of the State Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package.