A giant petrel found near Hawks Nest has tested positive for H5bird flu, marking the first confirmed detection of the virus in New South Wales.
The result was confirmed through laboratory testing by the CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness. Authorities say there is no evidence of spread to other local wildlife, and the virus has not been detected in any commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or other wild birds across the state. To date, the NSW case is limited to this single migratory seabird.
In response, the State Government has activated its H5 Bird Flu Response Plan. Measures include advice to commercial poultry producers recommending heightened biosecurity and voluntary housing of free-range flocks where practicable, along with expanded drone and on-ground surveillance in high-risk areas over the coming weeks. More than 500 staff across government have been trained to support the response, which is being coordinated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development from the State Coordination Centre at Orange Agricultural Institute.
NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said the government had been preparing for a positive result and had a clear plan in place to support industry and the community. She said the detection had not affected the poultry sector or domestic wildlife, and there was no impact on the supply of chicken meat or eggs.
Nationally, there are now six confirmed cases of H5 bird flu.
Anyone who observes unusual deaths or illness in wild birds is urged to avoid contact, record it with photos or video, and report it immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
