Waivers and Policys

HORSE HANDLING WAIVER

Central Districts Shows Association (CDSA)

Hot Weather Policy

V1.2 

1. Purpose & Scope

The Central Districts Shows Association (CDSA) is committed to ensuring the health,

safety and welfare of all participants, volunteers, visitors, staff and animals at country

shows.

This policy provides a framework for managing risks associated with adverse

weather conditions, particularly extreme heat. It applies to all CDSA member

shows and aligns with:

• Animal Welfare Act 1985 (SA) No 8 of 2025 assented to 27.2.2025

• PIRSA Heat Stress Management Guidelines

• RSPCA Australia animal welfare recommendations

2. Weather Monitoring & Decision Making

• Each Show Committee will monitor Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts

leading up to and during events.

• Heat thresholds:

o ≥33°C – risk assessment required; event schedules may be modified.

o ≥36°C – all livestock classes cancelled.

• Specific cancellations in line with SA Country Shows guidelines:

o ≥33°C – Poultry & Companion Animals (pets) cancelled.

o ≥36°C – all livestock competitions cancelled including Horse Events

• Committees may postpone, shorten or cancel events if conditions pose risks.

• Exhibitors are expected to exercise duty of care in deciding whether to

present livestock.

3. General Safety Measures

For People

• Provide shaded rest areas and cooling zones across the grounds.

• Ensure water refill stations are available and clearly marked.

• Supply sunscreen at key locations.

• Encourage sun-smart behaviour (hats, sunscreen, hydration).

• Adjust scheduling to cooler times of day when possible.

For Livestock & Animals

• Provide continuous access to clean water and shaded shelter.

• Ensure adequate ventilation (fans, misting systems where practical).

• Minimise handling, exertion and transport during peak heat.

• Monitor for signs of heat stress (panting, lethargy, drooling, collapse).

4. Transport & Handling of Livestock

• In accordance with legislative requirements, livestock should not be

transported when forecast temperatures exceed 35°C, unless unavoidable

with mitigation in place.

• Transport, if necessary, should occur early morning or late evening.

• Vehicles must be ventilated with adequate airflow.

• Minimise travel times and ensure water is available before and after journeys.

5. Event Adjustments & Cancellation

• Show Committees may:

o Shorten show hours or reschedule to cooler times.

o Relocate outdoor events to shaded or indoor spaces.

o Limit demonstrations or displays that risk prolonged exposure.

• Exhibitors and attendees will be notified of changes by Wednesday evening

prior to the event.

• Refunds in the event of cancellations are at the discretion of each Show

Society and must be communicated in the show’s entry terms.

6. Emergency Response

People & Animals

• All shows must have first aid officers and veterinary support available.

• Cooling aids (ice packs, fans, misting, shaded areas) must be accessible.

• Emergency evacuation routes clearly signed and accessible.

Heat Stress – General Signs:

• People: dizziness, fainting, nausea, heat stroke.

• Livestock: panting, open-mouth breathing, drooling, lethargy, wings spread

(poultry).

Response Actions:

• Move affected individuals/animals to a cool, shaded area immediately.

• Provide water and apply cooling methods (misting, wetting down, shade).

• Seek veterinary or medical attention without delay.

7. Compliance & Enforcement

• Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all exhibitors and organisers.

• Breaches may result in:

o Removal from competition.

o Referral to RSPCA South Australia or PIRSA.

• Each Show Society is responsible for ensuring adherence.

8. Communication

• Pre-event: Attendees, exhibitors and participants will be notified of weather

risks and advised to prepare appropriately.

• During event: Clear signage must identify water stations, cooling areas, shade

and emergency services.

• Updates will be provided via social media, websites, PA systems and event

signage.

9. Review & Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually by CDSA to reflect current best practices and

weather patterns, and to ensure legislative compliance where required.

CDSA and its member shows prioritise the

welfare of people and animals while ensuring our shows remain safe,

responsible and enjoyable events.