26/06/2026
Hello WAFFS members,
I hope you are all well and looking forward to Race Day this Sunday.
WAFFS Race Day will go ahead as planned this Sunday, 28 June, with a 9.30 am start - see event post
As you may have seen in the media, H5N1 avian influenza has recently been detected in a small number of migratory seabirds on the south coast of Western Australia. While this virus has caused significant impacts to bird and wildlife populations overseas, current advice indicates that the risk to people in Australia remains low.
At this stage, there have been no reported detections of H5N1 avian influenza in the Perth metropolitan area. On that basis, the risk of exposure to the virus at Sunday’s event is considered very low.
That said, ferrets are highly susceptible to respiratory illnesses, including cold, flu and COVID viruses. As a precaution, we ask that you please do not attend if you or your ferret/s are unwell or showing cold or flu-like symptoms.
If you are concerned, immunocompromised, or live with someone who is at higher risk, you may wish to consider wearing a mask and making use of hand sanitiser and regular handwashing.
WAFFS will continue to liaise closely with Cottesloe Veterinary Hospital and monitor government advice. We will provide further updates if the situation changes.
● AVOID contact with sick or dead wildlife and their surroundings. Observe from a distance and do not allow pets to touch or eat sick or dead wildlife.
● RECORD what you see, including the location where the animal was found. Take photos or video if it is safe to do so without approaching the bird.
● REPORT any unusual illness or death in wild birds or other wildlife immediately via the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
In the meantime, if you encounter a sick or dead wild bird or suspect H5 bird flu, please follow the recommended advice:
We hope to see you all on Sunday.
Regards,
Sandy Mamo
President, on behalf of the WAFFS Committee
