Murrayville farmer fined over cattle cruelty offences

A Murrayville farmer has been fined $10,000 and convicted in the Ouyen Magistrates’ Court after pleading guilty to multiple animal cruelty offences. The charges included failing to feed cattle, aggravated cruelty, and failing to comply with a notice under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

Agriculture Victoria officers attended the property in January this year following reports of dead and dying cattle. Agriculture Victoria Program Manager for Animal Health and Welfare Compliance Daniel Bode said officers found 52 cattle in extremely poor condition, along with 43 carcasses.

“The animals had obvious spine, hip and rib bones visible through dull coats,” Mr Bode said. He confirmed the farmer failed to comply with a Notice to Comply and admitted the cattle had been dying for some time, stating he had “given up” and had “lost interest in them”.

In sentencing, Magistrate Southey described the property as “a wasteland” and said the animals endured prolonged suffering.

“They were completely helpless and dependent on the accused,” the magistrate said, describing the neglect as gross and callous. Agriculture Victoria is urging anyone concerned about livestock welfare to report it.