During his five years of service with Agriculture Victoria, Dr Milne led Victoria through detections of anthrax and blue-tongue virus, firefighting foam-contaminated pastures and worked to help many farmers recover from natural disasters including floods and bushfires.
He led the review into Victoria’s greyhound industry following the exposure of incidents of live baiting, and acted as the state’s agricultural minister’s delegate to authorise seizures of animals when their welfare was jeopardised.
He has also played a leading role in the introduction of mandatory electronic identification for sheep and goats in Victoria, a significant reform to improve the state’s traceability and ability to respond more rapidly to disease incursions or food safety issues.
Dr Milne said although he looked forward to returning to Scotland and being closer to family, he was immensely grateful for the opportunity to work in Victoria and contribute to the Victorian and Australian biosecurity system.
‘‘I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Agriculture Victoria and am thankful to have worked with many incredible people, including Victorian Government colleagues, veterinary and animal health practitioners, and Victorian farmers.’’
Agriculture Victoria chief executive Emily Phillips thanked Dr Milne for his time with the department.
‘‘The Victorian Government is better equipped to respond to animal health and biosecurity emergencies thanks to Dr Milne’s significant contributions,’’ Dr Phillips said.
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