Queensland Ag Shows is encouraging bird show organisers and bird owners to stay informed following the confirmation of H5 bird flu in migratory wild birds on the south coast of Western Australia and South Australia.
At this stage, there has been no detection of H5 bird flu in Queensland, and there is no evidence of spread to poultry or reports of mass wildlife deaths. The Queensland Government is closely monitoring the situation and has measures in place to respond quickly if the disease is detected.
The current risk to people in Australia remains low.
Advice for the community
If you come across sick or dead wild birds or wildlife, please:
- Do not touch or collect sick or dead birds or wildlife.
- Avoid contact with the animals and the surrounding environment.
- If it is safe to do so, record details including the number of animals, species, location, date and time.
- Report sick or dead wild birds to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or contact 13 25 23.
Early reporting helps protect Australia’s livestock, wildlife and poultry industries.
Important information for bird owners
Early detection is essential.
If you own birds, monitor them closely and report any unusual illness or unexplained deaths immediately.
Signs of H5 bird flu may include:
- Sudden death
- Lack of coordination or tremors
- Swimming in circles
- Twisted neck or unusual posture
- Inability to stand or fly
- Diarrhoea
- Difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
- Swelling around the head, neck or eyes
- Cloudy eyes or changes in eye colour
If you notice any of these signs, contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 without delay.
Help protect Queensland’s birds
We ask all bird show organisers to share this information with members, exhibitors and bird owners within their communities.
By staying alert and reporting unusual signs early, we can all help protect Queensland’s birds, agricultural industries and the communities that bring our local shows to life.
Learn more
For the latest information and advice, visit:
- Biosecurity Queensland – Avian influenza
- Australian Government – Avian influenza (bird flu)
- Wildlife Health Australia – H5 Bird Flu Resource Centre
- Workplace Health and Safety Queensland – Working with bird and bat droppings
- National guidelines for avian influenza: Protecting people who work with birds and wildlife
For updates relating to Queensland Ag Shows and member resources, continue to check our News page
