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Panorama Newsletter

AT THE ANZLAA ANIMAL WELFARE SYMPOSIUM, PANORAMA EDITORS MET DR. KEVIN WATHEN-DUNN

Director of the UQ Biological Resources (The University of Queensland, Australia)

What key value did you gain from attending the Animal Welfare Symposium?

This years’ symposium had two topics that made me reflect on our operations.

This first looked at research reproducibility. This included not only the practicality of experimental design within growth areas such as gnotobiotic work or radiopharmaceutical therapy. It was also the sharing of difficult lessons learnt that stood out for me. The Winkler Lab shared their difficult experience with changes to an animal phenotype, following movement to a new facility. It would be great to see these examples discussed more frequently to help refine practices and reduce animal usage.

The second related to human welfare. It is important to remember that without great staff it is difficult to ensure great animal welfare is applied. Rebecca Scotney’s review of compassion fatigue and its impact on staff, combined with Felicity Couperthwaite’s review of available tools is certainly an area for application.    

Would you suggest to Panorama Readers to participate in the Animal Welfare Symposium next year? If so, why?

There are a number of reasons for attending such events. The first is progressive development. Our industry continues to actively refine equipment and processes for both research and animal welfare. It is important to ensure  we are progressively understanding and implementing best practice.

The second is to support our community. Reviewing recordings from such events, help us remain up to date. However, the networking opportunity available during breaks is as important as the symposium content.

Do you have TP products in your facility? If yes, what?

We have a range of products between our facilities. This includes green line caging for mice and rats, combined with supporting equipment such as Change Stations and Biological Safety Cabinets, through to logistical support such as washers and bottle fillers.

Why did you choose TP products? What benefits and features did you require?

We have caging equipment from a number of suppliers across our operations. Although, Tecniplast is one of the few companies who provide a holistic product range that is designed for purpose. This is in conjunction with efforts made to actively seek customer feedback on equipment design and services provided.

Can you list the most important competitive advantages when using Tecniplast products?

The most important competitive advantage for me is the drive for ongoing improvement we see from Tecniplast. This not only includes incremental product improvements, but the efforts made to ensure they are complementary with existing systems/equipment.  

Vesna Valic – Tecniplast Australia General Manager