Hands-on November disease workshop for producers coming soon

Livestock SA, in partnership with PIRSA, invites producers to a practical half-day workshop at the Carrieton Rodeo Club to help cattle producers better understand and respond to November Disease, as well as discuss broader livestock health issues in the region.

Held at the Carrieton Rodeo Club on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, from 9am to 1pm, the workshop will include an update on November Disease, covering what is currently understood about the condition, its symptoms, what is still being explored, and insights into potential causes.

November Disease, also known as Northern Cattle Death Syndrome, refers to sudden, sporadic deaths of otherwise healthy cattle, most often seen in the Upper North of South Australia (Hawker, Cradock, Carrieton) between November and January following good rainfall seasons. Symptoms can include diarrhoea (particularly in younger cattle), drooling, neurological signs in older animals, and sudden death.

First reported in the early 1900s, the disease has puzzled producers and veterinarians for more than a century. While PIRSA investigations have consistently ruled out exotic or infectious causes, evidence points to an as-yet unidentified toxin, likely linked to seasonal pasture changes. This makes awareness and on-farm vigilance critical for producers.

Understanding the signs of November Disease and learning how to manage potential risks is vital, as early recognition and preventive strategies can reduce stock losses and protect herd health. This workshop gives producers the opportunity to hear the latest insights from experts, ask practical questions, and strengthen their on-farm biosecurity knowledge.

The seasonal conditions so far in 2025 have not produced conditions consistent with previous outbreaks of November Disease, indicating a lower disease risk in 2025/26.

In addition to the November Disease update, the workshop will also feature:

• a hands-on sheep post-mortem practical, providing a chance to observe and discuss disease symptoms
• insights into other endemic livestock diseases and how these may vary across seasons
• plant ID techniques and the key species producers should monitor.

Presenters will include Dr Nigel Baum, Senior Veterinary Officer, Biosecurity SA, PIRSA and Dr Jack Coffey from Mt Bryan Veterinary Services. In addition, Riley McInerney, Animal Health Officer with PIRSA, will provide Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) investigation kits for participants who wish to take one.

These kits allow producers to safely collect and submit samples if there is a suspected emergency animal disease.

Register for the November Disease Postmortem Workshop.

Livestock SA Livestock owners are reminded to call their veterinarian or the 24/7 Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 if signs of serious disease are observed or, in the event of a suspected outbreak, an emergency or exotic animal disease.