For context, thousands of cattle and sheep are routinely transported around Australia every year in trucks that do not offer water or food or protection from the weather and, at a density that usually prevents all animals from laying down at the same time. Whilst some animals may get some space to lay down, many will stand for the entire journey.
The relevant animal welfare legislations in each State in Australia permit the deprivation of water and feed for 2 full days. This 48 hour period begins after the animals last access to water and feed usually on a farm, or at a saleyard (market) or feedlot. Although from first glance an animal may appear healthy and fit for a long distance transport, they may not always be able to cope with the stessors of the time without water to drink and food to eat and space to lay down on the truck and as a result, the risks to the welfare of the animals is high. For the industry it is not so worrysome as for the most part, most animals are ‘insured’ under transit insurance. However, some drivers know that animals do not transport well when denied water and food for that long. They want the animals to eat, drink and sleep to help them overcome the effects of dehydration and intense hunger and fatigue. So, facilities or ‘spell yards’ enroute where animals can be unloaded and given a break from the stresses and rigours of transport are vital as they provide an opportunity for the animals to recover.
Mundrabilla Spell Yards, Mundrabilla WA
Mundrabilla was one of four privately owned ‘spell’ facilities visited to assess their management of the animals welfare requirements. The yard is situated just west of the Western Australian and South Australian border and provides an area in which both cattle and sheep can be unloaded into outside pens, fed, watered and rested for as long as either the driver or owner of the animals dictate. We were informed that generally the animals stay at the facility for around 12 hours, but depending on their time off water and feed prior to the journey commencing, it could be less or more.
Mundrabilla spell yard is very tidy and clean but not undercover which is unfortunate as the cattle and sheep are exposed to all weathers. We were informed that they are provided with sufficient space to all lay down and rest at the same time, which is dependant on the density, and are given hay and water right up until they are loaded back onto the truck for the rest of the journey. The cattle ramp requires a little maintenance but is, we think, fit for purpose.
There is also signage to remind drivers that all animals must be fit for the journey. We will provide a detailed overview of the spell yard to the appropriate recipients.
