Australia, May 2012
Posing the question ‘What makes a good farmer?’ RSPCA Australia’s Scientific Officer, Melina Tensen will be beefing up Beef Australia 2012 in Rockhampton today, as she presents on community expectations and future trends in animal welfare for beef cattle production.
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“More and more consumers are becoming aware about how their food is produced and are demanding higher welfare produce,” said Melina Tensen, Scientific Officer, Farm Animals, RSPCA Australia.
“This increasing demand is opening up new opportunities for producers to move with consumer expectations and meet what’s likely to become a requirement for access into some markets.”
“Community concern for animal welfare reached an unprecedented high last year when the treatment of cattle in Indonesian abattoirs was revealed. This concern was not only directed for animals exported live for slaughter, but raised questions about how animals are treated in Australia.
“During this time, the RSPCA received increased interested from cattle producers for some type of RSPCA recognition of their good animal welfare practices.
“In response to producer demand, the RSPCA has developed animal welfare guidelines for beef cattle and is looking at ways to publicly recognise producers who are committed to improving the animal welfare on farm.”
The RSPCA beef cattle guidelines focus on husbandry, handling and cattle management.
Ms Tensen will steer on through the cattle supply chain suggesting welfare improvements that can be achieved through new thinking, research and development and innovation.
The RSPCA’s beef cattle animal welfare guidelines will be available soon, to reserve your copy contact the RSPCA on 02 6282 8300. |
