The RSPCA has welcomed the development of an abattoir on Yeeda station between Broome and Derby. This follows last week’s confirmation by the Australian Agricultural Company that it will proceed with the construction of an abattoir near Darwin. Around 255,000 head of cattle are expected to be processed through these two new facilities in the country’s north each year.
“From an animal welfare perspective this is a great outcome. Between them, these facilities will dramatically reduce the travel time for many thousands of animals every year,” said Ms Melina Tensen, RSPCA Australia Senior Scientific Officer, Farm Animals.
“Animals that would otherwise be trucked thousands of kilometres south or east will now be processed much closer to home; and because transport is stressful for farm animals, that’s a big win for animal welfare.
“These facilities will offer more opportunities for cattle producers in the region, including access to beef export markets and less reliance on the live cattle trade.
“Committing to processing facilities in northern Australia is committing to the long-term future of cattle production in the north,” said Ms Tensen.
Media contact: Elise Meakin, 0419 748 907, [email protected].
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