Biosecurity Queensland officer Bridget Cannon said the Alpha dip was being closed to enable Barcaldine Regional Council to carry out annual maintenance during a period which was traditionally very quiet.

Ms Cannon said the last day for inspection of cattle through Alpha dip would be Friday, December 18 and any stock that failed to clear could be held over at the Alpha yards until the dip reopened on Monday, January 4.

“The last day for clearing horses would be Thursday, December 24, but it is essential for stockowners to provide a minimum 48 hours notice with a return to normal operations on January 4,” Ms Cannon said.

Rolleston clearing dip would also be closed from December 25 to January 4 whereas Gracemere and Taroom would be closed for the public holidays on December 25 and 28 and again on January 1.

* Producers requiring further information relating to clearing stock through the tick lines during the holiday period should contact the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.