Rural & Agriculture
4 September, 2026
Bird Flu detected in Pyrenees Shire
THE Pyrenees Shire has reported its first confirmed case of the H5 virus also knows as bird flu. The Department of Agriculture’s website this week listed a positive case of bird flu in the Avoca district. A dead bird was tested by authorities on the 26th of August and came back positive for the H5 virus.
It isn’t clear if a dead tern found at the Avoca Golf Course was the infected bird.
The Department’s website suggests the infected bird in Avoca came under the category “Gulls, Terns and Noddies”.
The latest case has prompted a new warning for people with poultry.
The Department of Agriculture said as H5 bird flu continues to spread, housing requirements have been extended for at least 28 days for poultry flocks of 50 or more birds along the south of the state.
Poultry owners in these areas – including Pyrenees Shire - must continue to house their birds or otherwise take measures to prevent contact with wild birds wherever practical.
Confining poultry is still recommended in other areas, where possible.
Housing poultry is an additional risk mitigation option aimed at reducing exposure of poultry to infected wildlife. Wild birds are a known source of H5 bird flu.
Stringent biosecurity practices remain essential.
The ACCC non-enforcement of free-range labelling applies for up to 90 days while a housing order or a recommendation is in place.
Anyone noticing unexplained illness or deaths in their birds are asked to report it immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
H5 bird flu: precautions for pets (sub heading)
While the risk of H5 bird flu in pets is extremely low, it's best to take precautions.
If you're out walking your dog or spending time outdoors:
· Keep dogs on a lead in areas with native wildlife
· Don't allow pets to investigate or eat dead animals
· Stop cats from roaming and hunting wildlife.
These simple actions help protect pets, wildlife and curbs the spread of disease.
Read More: Avoca