Public meeting demonstrates importance of live sheep trade

WAFarmers Upper Great Southern, Central Great Southern and Corrigin/Lake Grace Zones would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who attended the meeting in Katanning on Friday 20 July. The support received was overwhelming and demonstrated the strong concern from the agricultural community regarding the future of the live sheep trade. 

WAFarmers President Tony York said it was a very realistic meeting and it was great to see so many farmers attend to voice their concerns. 

“There were not only farmers in the room, but other associated industries including livestock transporters, shearing contractors, stock agents and regional business owners. It just goes to show the impact that this trade has on a wide range of industries and it was clear that it’s not just sheep farmers that are hurting,” he said.

“We hope that people left the meeting with a clearer understanding of the current situation of the live sheep trade and the challenges that face the industry to continue the trade.

 “There is a lot of work to be done and we need to get this right. Western Australia relies heavily on exports; therefore it is important for WA producers to be vocal in advocating for the continuation and continual improvement to the live sheep trade.

WAFarmers President Tony York said the organisation would like to extend its gratitude to the politicians who attended the meeting to show support for the industry.

“We hope that the Federal representatives continue to support Western Australian farmers and the wider agriculture industry by maintaining pressure for the continuation of the live sheep trade,” he said. 

WAFarmers will continue to work collaboratively with other key industry partners to ensure that the trade can continue and improvements are made to advance the trade, not shut it down.

WAFarmers will bring forward the suggestions and motions that were tabled at the meeting as soon as possible to ensure the trade can continue.

 WAFarmers will endeavour to work closely with the Western Australian Government and the Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan to ensure that the views of WA producers are understood and taken into account. 

Mr York said he would encourage everyone who has a vested interest in continuing the live sheep trade and not already a member of an advocacy body, to consider joining.

“Being a member of an advocacy group is important as it ensures these groups can remain vocal and influential, especially in times like this.”

WAFarmers also understands that the uncertainty surrounding the trade and financial burden that this may cause could have effects on the mental health of anyone involved in the industry.  Please remember to look out for each other and talk to one another.

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