This special episode explores the impact of avian influenza on the egg industry in Australia. Melinda Hashimoto, CEO of Egg Farmers of Australia, provides insights into the virus, its transmission, and the measures taken to control its spread. The discussion covers the process of detecting and responding to avian influenza outbreaks on farms, the impact on farmers and the supply chain, and the role of biosecurity in preventing the spread of the virus. It also highlights the importance of consumer support and awareness in maintaining the stability of the egg industry. Takeaways Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that affects birds and is spread through wild birds.The egg industry in Australia produces about 18.3 million eggs per day, with the majority coming from Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.In the event of an avian influenza outbreak, affected farms are quarantined, and the birds are destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus.Farmers can receive compensation for the loss of birds and the impact on their business, but the process of recovery can take several months.Consumers can support the egg industry by continuing to purchase and consume eggs, while also practicing good biosecurity measures if they own backyard hens.Some supply chain impacts have been felt and supermarkets and restaurant chains have taken measures to manage their supply to customers. Podcast Partner: Rabobank AustraliaDo you have a passion and interest in agriculture? Applications are now open for Rabobank’s award winning graduate program for positions in a range of business areas including; rural banking, sustainability, risk management, banking operations, technology, business transformation, finance, and legal.   As a purpose-lead organisation, graduates can feel good knowing they are joining an agri leader making a difference in Aussie farming and rural communities.   All successful graduates will spend time at one of Rabobank’s 61 branches in Australia – Dalby, Moora, Shepparton, Tamworth and Toowoomba to name a few. Beginning with a formal 18-month graduate program, kicking off in February 2025, graduates will have the opportunity to participate in business rotations, tailored for each graduate, enabling them to spend time across the bank’s operations, working with a wide range of teams, where they will learn from and gain invaluable experience.   Applications close Friday 23rd August. Visit Rabobank.com.au to learn more.