A recent disease outbreak in north Queensland pigeon lofts has the Department of Primary Industry and Resources urging Northern Territory livestock owners to register their properties and help maintain biosecurity.

People who keep farm animals in the Northern Territory require a Property Identification Code (PIC), which identifies that they have farmed animals on their properties.

Department of Primary Industry and Resources Chief Vet Kevin de Witte said the recent outbreak of avian paramyxovirus type 1 which was confirmed in Queensland highlighted how quickly contagious diseases can affect properties.  

“Around 100 pigeons recently died of pigeon paramyxovirus in Cairns, in tropical north Queensland,” he said.

“The disease spread to four lofts, which shows how important it is to know where birds are being kept and to advise implementation of quarantine measures in a timely manner.

“There is also the potential risk of a new fatal bird rotavirus (serotype G18P) in other states and it’s vital that we continue our strong biosecurity measures, such as the PIC – property registration, to help manage the potential spread of the disease.”

Mr de Witte said the PIC was a crucial tool for protecting animals near a disease threat.

“A Property Identification Code helps the Department manage any outbreaks of disease which could spread beyond the property where it was first found, because it helps identify where animals are kept,” he said.

“If you are registered and have a PIC, we can get in touch with you to provide advice if there’s a chance your animals are at risk with a disease threat in the area."

Farm animals include; cattle, buffalo, pigs, chickens, ducks, bees, deer, llamas, camels, alpacas, sheep, goats and horses, including donkeys and mules.

“Even if you own these animals as pets, they can still contract and carry emergency diseases, which are what we are trying to protect against,” he said.

Mr de Witte said PICs were an essential part of the National Livestock Identification System.

“Biosecurity is a serious issue and a Property Identification Code isn’t optional – anyone with livestock is required to register. This can be done for free.”

To find out more, go to: https://nt.gov.au/industry/agriculture/livestock/get-a-property-identification-code

Or contact your Regional Livestock Biosecurity Office:

Darwin - 8999 2034

Katherine - 8973 9767

Tennant Creek - 8962 4458

Alice Springs - 8951 8125

Media contact: Lucy Buhr 0419 106 309