Media release Friday 27 November 2009
Tens of thousands of healthy, quality Australian sheep will feed over 1 million Middle Eastern families during this year’s Eid al Adha festival, says Australian animal welfare specialist Peter Dundon, who leads the Australian livestock export industry's animal welfare program in the Middle East and Africa.
Eid al Adha begins today and is one of the largest celebrations on the Islamic calendar, with increased demand for Australian sheep in the lead-up to and during the festival. Local people purchase live animals that are either taken home for traditional slaughter or processed in an abattoir. The meat is then shared with family, friends and poorer members of the community as part of their religious tradition.
“These sheep have recently arrived on ships from Australia and they're in great condition. They're eating and drinking well, being cared for by qualified stockmen and handled properly,” said Mr Dundon. “In addition, our team of Aussie welfare specialists are working in feedlots in Bahrain and Qatar to encourage locals to properly transport the livestock they purchase – in the ute, and not the boot.”
“Australian sheep are highly regarded across the region,” said Mr Dundon. “They're a healthy, affordable, quality source of protein for local families and communities. People know they've been treated well.”
Australian farmers and exporters, through MLA and LiveCorp have invested millions of dollars into improving animal welfare in the Middle East, and continue to have great success with their programs.
“We are here every day, teaching and educating local people about how to manage Australian sheep. We also make improvements to infrastructure such as feedlots and provide equipment like loading ramps to ensure animals are safe and treated well,” said Mr Dundon. “It's frustrating that animal activists continue to deride the trade whilst Australia is leading the world in improving animal welfare over here.”
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Interviews:
MLA/LiveCorp Livestock Services Manager, Middle East & Africa, Peter Dundon and MLA Livestock Export Manager, Michael Finucan in Bahrain/Qatar daily from 2.00pm – 5.00pm (preferred)
Images:
Australian animal welfare specialist Peter Dundon at Bahrain Livestock Company feedlot
Locals loading Australian sheep in Bahrain
Media contact:
Yvette Farrell MLA/LiveCorp (02) 9463 9388 or 0416 189 775