A COALITION of leading WA sheep producers, transport and feedlot operators, exporters and importers has been launched this week, to be known as The Sheep Collective.
The aim of the group is to provide transparent information about the sheep industry and live sheep export trade, highlighting the care provided at every step of the journey.
Emanuel Exports has drawn together The Sheep Collective as part of a wider transparency project being run by the company which also includes tours of export vessels by State and Federal MPs, industry partners and producers.
Emanuel Exports compliance officer Dr Holly Ludeman said “ensuring the health and welfare of our sheep is at the core of everything done by The Sheep Collective, across the supply chain, every day, every year”.
“Emanuel Exports recognises more needs to be done to improve transparency and trust, The Sheep Collective will demonstrate the care that is involved in all parts of the supply chain, I’m proud to be part of it,” Dr Ludeman said.
Others involved in and passionate about the livestock export trade are invited to be part of The Sheep Collective, to help share their story.
“Farmers spend their entire lives dedicated to breeding and raising happy and contented animals, having the Australian community better understand this is really the cornerstone of The Sheep Collective initiative,” said WA sheep producer Bindi Murray.
Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of WA president Andy Jacob said “animal welfare is paramount” in the industry.
“Livestock transport drivers often come from a farming background so have a lifetime of experience handling and looking after animals,” Mr Jacob said.
“You need to be a stockman first and a truck driver second, that’s what is important to us.”
For more information visit The Sheep Collective website at thesheepcollective.com.au
