The NSW Department of Primary Industries confirmed biosecurity measures have been put in place on the Central West property after the livestock deaths, including restricted animal movements, vaccination of stock, carcass disposal and decontamination.

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus Anthracis that strikes suddenly and can affect sheep, cattle, horses, pigs and many other animals.

A spokesperson from the DPI said hot and dry conditions favour the development of anthrax, and with the drought covering NSW the conditions for infection are ideal.

“There is an increased risk of anthrax when feed is short and animals are grazing close to the ground,” the spokesperson said.

“Anthrax occurs sporadically in NSW, usually in the central ‘anthrax belt’, which runs through the centre of the state and into Victoria,” the spokesperson said.

Recent research identified the ‘anthrax belt’, previously from Moree and Walgett to the Victorian border from Corowa to Deniliquin, had expanded further north into southern Queensland. 

The deaths come after a number of major outbreaks in southern Queensland recently.

Any suspected cases should be reported to Local Land Service on 1300 795 299 or the NSW DPI on 1800 675 888.