The successful inaugural launch of the National Biosecurity Response Team (NBRT) Cadet workshop in Tasmania has showcased the programs potential to help lift biosecurity emergency preparedness and response capabilities in each jurisdiction. By maintaining a critical mass of cross-sectoral response-ready personnel, the initiative supports national efforts and assists jurisdictional preparedness, ensuring a robust and well-coordinated response to future biosecurity challenges.

The workshop saw Animal Health Australia join forces with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) and Craig Elliott (P2R2) to launch the program’s first workshop in a series of workshops to be rolled out across the country.

The workshop program, attended by more than 30 participants from across the Department, focused on the mechanics and functions of biosecurity response and arrangements at both state and national levels. Attendees actively engaged in problem-solving exercises based on diverse scenarios, preparing them for various potential biosecurity incidents.

Kyle Squibb from Biosecurity Tasmania (a division within NRE Tas) and NBRT representative in Tasmania, shared his firsthand experiences managing biosecurity responses in Tasmania, emphasising the importance of having response-ready personnel on both jurisdictional and national levels.

The event also featured a networking opportunity attended by Jason Jacobi, the Acting Secretary of NRE Tas. Jacobi highlighted the significance of the NBRT cadets initiative, ensuring that those involved will be vital as biosecurity response personnel for TAS and Australia at large in the future.

The Tasmanian NBRT Cadet Program was the first in a series to be rolled out in 2023 and the next will be held in QLD in May. For more information about the program, email the Program Manager –
Elissa Tarling at etarling@animalhealthaustralia.com.au