Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE

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Fellowship for Animal Science teachers

Melinda Howlett and Celia Turnbull from the National Centre for Equine Education at Goulburn Ovens TAFE are the winners of the inaugural Agri-Food International Fellowship, awarded in collaboration with the International Specialised Skills Institute.

Melinda has a background in horse breeding and horse racing, and Celia is a veterinarian from Wangaratta, and they are both involved in training people in animal and equine industries.

They plan to train in the United States in large animal emergency rescue and to examine the feasibility of introducing a large animal rescue service in Australia.

The Fellowship is designed to address skills deficiencies within Australia by offering the opportunity for overseas study, so new skills and ideas can be brought back to enrich Australia's capabilities.

The rescue of large animals in emergency situations is a difficult and risky business. Horses, cattle and other large heavy animals can find themselves trapped in predicaments such as fallen into rivers, down cliffs, into wells and drains, and trapped in boggy dams.

Similarly injured recumbent animals are difficult to move to safe ground where veterinary attention can be given. For example, animals injured on roadways during traffic accidents, on the racetrack or injured within the confined space of an animal transportation vehicle all require specialised rescue techniques to remove the animal and allow for safe treatment of the animal.

In many countries, natural disaster planning protocols involving the management and rescue of animals during times of floods, fires and droughts are in place. Emergency personnel are trained in horse and cattle handling skills to deal with these situations.

Melinda and Celia believe Australian livestock and equine industries will benefit from the introduction of these techniques, by improving the confidence and ability of animal workers and rescue personnel in dealing with animals in emergency situations, improving the welfare and survivability of the animals, and maintaining the safety of all.

(Article courtesy of Agri-Food Skills Council at www.agrifoodskills.net.au)