ABOVE: MANE workshop participants set up a shed.
THE Australian chicken meat industry has successfully completed a nationwide series of modified atmosphere nitrogen euthanasia training workshops, bringing together industry and government stakeholders to strengthen Australia’s preparedness for a major emergency animal disease response. Held across key poultry-producing regions in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania and South Australia, the workshops provided participants with practical hands-on training in the deployment of MANE technology for the humane depopulation of poultry during a disease outbreak.
The NSW MANE workshop attendees learning about MANE technology and systems.
The field-based sessions covered all aspects of MANE implementation, including emergency response planning, standard operating procedures, workplace safety, site preparation, liquid nitrogen application, monitoring requirements and operational logistics. Through live demonstrations and practical exercises, participants gained valuable experience with the equipment and processes that would support a rapid and effective response during an emergency. A major outcome of the program was the strong collaboration between industry, government agencies and technical experts.
The workshops created opportunities to share lessons learned, test procedures in real-world settings and identify improvements to strengthen national response arrangements. Participant feedback will help ensure MANE procedures remain practical, consistent and fit for purpose within Australia’s emergency animal disease frameworks. The training roadshow also showcased the remarkable journey behind the development of MANE technology. What began as an ambitious concept evolved through 18 months of research, engineering innovation, testing and collaboration into a world-leading response solution.
Workshop participants attending a MANE debrief.
Delivered by a team of experts who helped design and develop the technology from the ground up, the project demonstrates the power of innovation, determination and partnership in addressing some of the poultry sector’s most complex challenges. Funded by AgriFutures Australia and led by the Australian Chicken Meat Federation, the extension project has been supported by a broad network of industry, government and technical partners. Their collective efforts have helped transform a pioneering idea into a practical capability that enhances animal welfare outcomes, strengthens food security and improves Australia’s preparedness.
While the roadshow marks the conclusion of a significant phase of the project, it also signals the beginning of ongoing preparedness efforts. The foundations established through this program will support continued refinement, training and collaboration to ensure the poultry industry remains resilient and ready to respond to future challenges. The success of the MANE workshops serves as a powerful reminder that innovation, practical training and strong partnerships are critical to protecting the Australian poultry industry and maintaining a robust national biosecurity system.
ACMF