Biosecurity officer Max Newsome has recently joined the biosecurity team based in Inverell, and is ready to work with producers and landholders on animal biosecurity and welfare, to help ensure market access for livestock.

​The University of New England graduate will address issues in livestock health, pest animals, invasive species and animal welfare.

Mr Newsome grew up on his family’s sheep and cattle property at Deepwater, where he formed a strong interest in agriculture.

After completing his degree, he worked on some large places in central and western Queensland.

“Now I want to use my academic background combined with my practical skills to be further involved in the industry,” Mr Newsome said.

“I’ve worked in combination roles before, mixing administrative tasks in the office with practical activities in the paddock, but this is a new chapter for me: working directly with producers.

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

Farm planning on biosecurity has changed from Mr Newsome’s early experiences.

“Biosecurity is protecting yourself and your enterprise from pests, weeds and disease, and with the recent changes that broaden biosecurity responsibility to industry and individuals, this shared responsibility helps ensure our market access,” he said.

“This focus is a clearly defined plan with the corresponding records to prove to our trading partners that we are producing the quality product that we say we are.”

Mr Newsome has been working beside Northern Tablelands LLS district veterinarian Andrew Biddle inspecting NLIS compliance at saleyards, monitoring animal health and welfare issues.

“It is great to have another member joining our team bringing new ideas and who is keen to engage with the local farmers,” Mr Biddle said.

Both men would like to continue to establish small geographically based landholder groups where they can target local animal health and pest issues.

“We can assist with strategies such as parasite monitoring in sheep or group baiting of target pests,” Mr Newsome said.

He said it was a pleasure being back on familiar ground and close to home.

“It’s good to be back in the area and see familiar faces again. You do have that connection with the producers because you’ve grown up in the area.”

Mr Newsome said people could contact him with any biosecurity issues, LPA questions, or for help formulating their biosecurity plan.