Hong Kong Green Light For Aust Imports

Hong Kong's Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department has been given the green light for importation of racehorses from Australia to HK to resume & 2 batches of thoroughbreds bound for Sha Tin are currently in quarantine in Melbourne awaiting shipment. The 1st group of 12 privately purchased horses & griffins (arriving tomorrow February 5) has been stranded in Australia since the Equine Influenza outbreak in August 2007. The 2nd group of 14 horses (arriving in HK in mid-February) involves 12 for the HK International Sale Part 2 & 2 for the Subscription Griffin ballot (after the HKIS on March 15 at Sha Tin). HK Jockey Club executive director of racing William Nader commented: "We are delighted the effect of the Equine Influenza virus has run its course in Australia & soon we can return to our normal import protocols. At the start of the current season 40% of the HK racehorse population is Australian-bred; last season we imported over 120 racehorses from Australia. These figures illustrate how vital these shipments are to our industry & it has been 6 months since our last import. It will be great to get things back to normal." Imports from Australia will initially depart only from Melbourne (an Equine Influenza-free area). Those based in NSW or Queensland must first enter quarantine in their home state, before entering pre-export quarantine in Victoria & eventually shipping to HK. Direct shipments from Sydney will recommence at a date to be decided by the HK agricultural authorities. (Feb 4)