2008 AVA Annual Conference. Story Menu

Transcription

1 2008 AVA Annual Conference Story Menu The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) will be holding its Annual Conference in Perth from the 25 to 30 May This is the largest annual gathering of veterinarians in Australasia and the media is invited to interview any of a number of speakers who will be presenting across the four days. To assist the AVA has put together a menu of stories. Monday 26 May 8.00am 8.50am - SOTAL Global Warming - Natural phenomena versus human activity. Presenter: Bryson Bates Abstract: An overview of past drivers of climate change and an evidenced-based summary of recent and relevant information about current climate change am Australian livestock systems under a changing climate. Presenter: Mark Howden Abstract: The climate is changing and more change is in store. We look at the implications for Australian agriculture and possible adaptations. 4.00pm 4.50pm - Resources management issues in agriculture Presenter: Don McFarlane Abstract: The impact of climate change on natural resources important for Australian agriculture. Climate change is having some beneficial impacts on natural resources (eg salinisation) but most impacts are negative as are reviewed. 5.00pm 5.50pm - Biofuels production - implications for feed grain users. Presenter: Matt George Abstract: Ethanol production from grains is increasing. An understanding of the distillation process and co-products is important for cattle digestive performance.

2 Tuesday 27th May 9.00am 9.50am - Stem cell technologies. Presenter: Jonathan Hill Abstract: New ethical challenges arise from burgeoning animal use in stem cell research for therapeutics, breeding and drug discovery am 12.20pm - Trends in rural land values and ownership in Australia. Presenter: Crawford Taylor Abstract: What trends are we seeing in agricultural land prices and ownership? Given the rise in agricultural land prices in Australia, what are the options for those companies looking to expand their business? pm - Easy-care sheep Presenter: John Karlsson Abstract: Easy-care sheep will be well adapted to their environment. This provides advantages in welfare, ethics, management and marketing pm - Roles for veterinarians, scientists and educators in promoting the responsible inclusion of animals in our communities Presenter: Dr Pauleen Bennett Abstract: To be valid, public discussions about animal welfare, animal rights and animal use require the inclusion of more professionals with knowledge about animals. The rationale for increased involvement will be outlined and strategies for participation discussed. 1

3 pm Impact of BVDV on reproductive performance of beef and dairy herds. Update on Australian research. Presenter: Michael McGowan Abstract: Australian studies on the impact of BVDV infection on the reproductive performance of beef and dairy cattle and the pathogenesis of BVDV induced losses pm Seal behaviour in Antarctica Presenter: Phil Tucak Abstract: The Antarctic sea ice is home to Weddell Seals, whose placid nature makes them ideal for scientists to study pm - Investigating disease emergence from wildlife. Presenter: Dr Hume Field Abstract: Biosecurity Queensland and the Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases. Nearly 75% of all emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) that impact or threaten human health are zoonotic. The majority have spilled from wildlife reservoirs. The epidemiologic investigation of these EIDs requires a comprehensive transdisciplinary approach that includes an understanding of the ecology of the wildlife species, and an understanding of human behaviors that increase risk of exposure. Investigations of the emergence of Nipah virus in Malaysia and SARS in China provide case studies. Mitigating and managing the risk requires an appreciation of the connectedness between human, livestock and wildlife health, and of the factors and processes that disrupt the balance. 2

4 Wednesday 28th May :50am - The human side of animal abuse and neglect. Presenter: Dr Pauleen Bennett Abstract: Animal abuse and neglect associated with specific psychological traits with diverse social and cultural factors. These will be reviewed to assist veterinarians wanting to understand and promote solutions to these challenging issues. 1:30-2:20pm Future directions of the Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre (AB-CRC) Presenter: Lisa Adams Abstract: Find out about future national directions for research and education in emerging infectious diseases and major new efforts to bring together animal and public health experts pm - Epidemiology of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in ducks in Indonesia and Vietnam pm - Epidemiology of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in ducks in Indonesia and Vietnam Presenter: Joanne Meers Abstract: The prevalence and incidence rates of HPAI in small holder duck farms were determined to assess the role that ducks play in the maintenance of H5N1 virus. 3

5 Thursday 29th May am - The epidemiology of food-borne and environmental pathogens. Presenter: Nigel French Abstract: Molecular epidemiology, combined with modelling is providing new tools to inform decision makers on the likely origin of human cases of zoonotic disease am - What is new in the world of behavioural medicine Presenter: Gaille Perry Abstract: This paper will present summaries of recent papers on animal behaviour which may be of interest to veterinarians in general practice. The papers were presented at the sixth International Veterinary Behaviour Meeting, Italy, 2007, the 12 th European Congress on Companion Animal Behavioural Medicine, Belgium, 2006 and the 12 th European Congress on Companion Animal Behavioural Medicine International Congress on Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Belgium, am - Antibacterial resistance on conventional and organic livestock farms Presenter: Nigel French Abstract: An increasing number of studies from around the world have shown that antibacterial resistant bacteria, both indicator species and pathogens, can be isolated on organic farms and from organically produced meat pm - Water quality and reuse/recycling Presenter: David Cunliffe Abstract: Recycled water has a ranges of applications associated with livestock. Management procedures and water quality requirements will be discussed pm - Advice to inexperienced owners of kittens. How to help them build the best possible relationship. Presenter: Patrick Pageat Abstract: Humans want cats to be well educated, that is, to abandon some of their spontaneous behaviours, but most cat owners think cats are not trainable. Vets are strategically placed to help clients understand cats and how to train them. 4

6 pm - Epidemiology of the Equine Influenza in Australia. Presenter: Dr James Gilkerson Abstract: The equine influenza was the biggest emergency animal disease outbreak in Australia s recent history. The successes and failures of the animal health network in responding to this crisis will be discussed. 5