Alverta leaves Scone for Melbourne. She departs for England on Wednesday night.

Watching Alverta get on the float yesterday evening was sweet relief knowing that three months of organisation had come to fruition. Much goes into the organisation of getting a horse overseas and it has been a team effort to make sure that all was in order for her trip to England.

The first and most crucial part of the organisation is ensuring that Alverta is well both physically and mentally. A combined effort of stable staff, riders and a program set out by Paul has ensured that she is on target to peak come 19 June in the Golden Jubilee at Royal Ascot.

All possible scenarios have been considered in packing Alverta's bags. Horses are creatures of habit and do not take kindly to disruptions in their routine. We are taking over 300kg worth of food, including individually packed meals for the plane, veterinary treatments and water from the Arrowfield Training Centre. She has had Lemon Crush cordial added to her water for the last month which will help to mask the unfamiliar taste of English water. Keeping her hydrated is paramount.

We have packed an assortment of rugs for the trip as she will encounter many temperature changes. It will be freezing in Melbourne, chilly in the plane, warm on arrival in transit and then warm/hot on arrival in England. We have prepared for all scenarios by packing a layering of rugs to keep her comfortable.

Alverta is not required to quarantine before flying to England however she will be visited by AQIS (Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service) vets on the day of her departure. Over the last 2 months she has had all required injections, including two Equine Influenza, Equine Herpes (Flu) and Tetanus and Strangles. She has had blood samples taken to check for infectious diseases and has had to apply for a temporary export application through the Australian Stud Book.

Alverta arrived safely in Melbourne this morning and will remain in work until her departure on Wednesday night.

AM