“SAM”, THE LIVE EXPORT RAM, IS COMING TO THE BRISBANE CBD TO INVITE THE PUBLIC TO PRESSURE FEDERAL POLITICIANS TO END THIS SHAMEFUL TRADE

On the eve of the next Federal election, Queenslanders are being invited to add their voice to the national day of action that is calling for the live export trade in sheep and cattle to the Middle East to be stopped.

WHO: “SAM” THE LIVE EXPORT RAM AND FRIENDS
WHEN: Saturday November 10th 10am – 1pm
WHERE: Brisbane CBD between Ann and Elizabeth Streets, starting from Borders Bookstore in Elizabeth Street
WHY: To be informed and invited to sign petitions and letters to appropriate politicians who have the decision making power to end this trade and make alternative arrangements for Australian animals and farmers

Australia exports millions of sheep and thousands of cattle each year to the Middle East where there are no laws to protect them from acts of cruelty. As a result, millions of people in these countries believe that Australians approve of their treatment of animals because we willingly engage in this trade. Over 36,000 sheep died en route last year alone despite industry and the Federal government’s claims that the ships they are transported on provide excellent voyage conditions and that once arrived, the animals are humanely and appropriately dealt with. Apart from the commercial trade, sheep are regularly bought by individual buyers for home slaughter.

In searing 45? heat, sheep are stuffed into car boots, dragged by their horns, legs and fleece, tossed off trucks and driven long distances to abattoirs and private homes where they face the most inhumane slaughter, as their throats will be cut whilst fully conscious. This treatment is routine and widespread.

Concurrently with the live trade, Australia exports chilled carcasses. If this trade must happen, then let the entire trade revert to chilled carcasses so at least the abattoir jobs stay in this country and the animals are given a quick and humane death, still according to H’al Al law.

No government should condone trade in live animals. Elections are not just about economics, they should also be about the moral bottom line of the society in which we live.

Footage (warning: unpleasant viewing – not for young children)
All Australians are invited to view film taken by Australian investigators from Animals Australia over four separate investigations in order to understand why we should be ashamed of this ugly business: www.liveexport-indefensible.com

For further information on this trade and the nation-wide call to ban it, contact Lyn White, Animals Australia (one of the investigators who went to the Middle East) on 0439 808 528 and or visit www.animalsaustralia.org.au For the Brisbane event. Please contact Cynthia Burnett of 0412 100 539