News & Media

New regional recruits strengthen animal welfare

Released on

Released on:
Friday, 11. August 2017 - 7:15

New livestock inspectors are taking up positions in Kalgoorlie and Broome to strengthen the State’s commitment to animal welfare.

The new compliance inspectors will join a team of 13 with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s livestock compliance unit, operating throughout the State.

Animal welfare director Sarah Kahn said the recruitment of additional inspectors in the regions and metropolitan area was a key recommendation of the 2015 Easton Review of the investment in and administration of the Animal Welfare Act 2002.

“These latest recruits follow recent appointments of inspectors in Narrogin, Moora, Albany, Geraldton and Katanning, as well as in the metropolitan area,” Dr Kahn said.

“Warren Lloyd has already started in Kalgoorlie and Sally Peacock will commence in Broome from 1 September.

“Warren’s vast experience in livestock management has included overseeing the operation of the Mount Barker saleyards and managing farms and stations. He previously worked for the department in Derby in the 1980s, working in the Rangeland division.

“Sally has an extensive knowledge of animal welfare, having worked as an animal health officer in Victoria over the past 19 years. She is looking forward to working with the northern cattle industry in WA.”

Dr Kahn said the new inspectors would carry out proactive inspections of premises, such as abattoirs and saleyards, to ensure livestock were receiving appropriate care.

They will also be well positioned to undertake investigations where necessary.

“The State Government is committed to making significant and long-term improvements to animal welfare in Western Australia,” Dr Kahn said.

“As well as increasing our inspectors on the ground, we are currently progressing amendments to animal welfare legislation. These changes will allow the introduction of legally enforceable minimum standards for livestock, bringing the State into line with the rest of Australia.”

For more information about the department’s role in animal welfare, visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/animalwelfare

New livestock compliance officer Warren Lloyd has started in Kalgoorlie
New livestock compliance officer Warren Lloyd has started with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in Kalgoorlie

Media contact:  Lisa Bertram, media liaison, +61 (0)8 9368 3937