The Korean strain of RHDV1 has been released

Beginning as the Invasive Animals CRC RHD Boost research project in 2009, we are pleased to see more than 6.5 years of rigourous scientific testing, approval processes and community-led collaboration has culminated in the first release of a new rabbit biocontrol agent in 20 years, known as RHDV1 K5.

Deputy Prime Minister, Barnaby Joyce and NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Niall Blair, announced the release of RHDV1 K5, which took place (or is taking place) at more than 600 sites across Australia.

The national release of RHDV1 K5 has been delivered through the Invasive Animals CRC, with major financial and in kind resources provided by the Australian and NSW governments, CSIRO, Meat & Livestock Australia, Australian Wool Innovation and Foundation for Rabbit Free Australia.

“Australian, state and territory governments, hand-in-hand with research and industry bodies worked together since 2009, screening 38 strains of RHDV, to identify an effective strain which could manage the wild rabbit populations which devastate our nation,” Mr Joyce said.

Congratulations to the RHD Boost research team (led through NSW DPI), the state and territory coordinators, all the project partners and of course to all the amazing community groups, farmers and producers around Australia who released the virus to help protect the Australian environment, boost our agricultural industry and create healthier landscapes.

Monitoring and evaluation of the release is ongoing and we'll provide updates as they come to hand.

(Images above supplied by South West NRM, QLD, NSW LLS, Ag Victoria, PIRSA and NSW DPI)