The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is conducting an animal welfare response on a property in the Pilbara region.
Aerial and on-ground activity is underway to assess the immediate welfare of cattle on the property.
Initial inspections have found a significant number of cattle in poor condition with limited access to water, and in some cases feed. More than 100 head of cattle have been humanely destroyed to date.
This response involves trained officers from the department’s regional operations, veterinary and livestock compliance areas.
The department will be working with property management to improve access for cattle to feed and water.
Operations are continuing this week.
The department’s Livestock Compliance Unit is investigating this matter regarding compliance under the Animal Welfare Act.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has moved quickly to respond to a very serious animal welfare issue in the Pilbara, and will continue to do so until all animal welfare issues have been resolved.
“This has been a particularly hot and dry season in the North-West, and we remind all pastoralists to remain vigilant.
“Clearly cattle cannot be left to just fend for themselves in these conditions – all pastoralists must accept their animal welfare responsibilities.”
