Wilberforce abbatoir’s strict rules

The NSW Food Authority has lifted the suspension of Hawkesbury Valley Meat Processors’ licence, and operations began again on March 12. The abattoir was shut down by the Food Authority on February 10 after video footage showing acts of animal maltreatment were revealed, including the systematic beating of live pigs’ heads with metal bars, inappropriate use of electric prods and even skinning sheep when they appeared to still be alive.

A criminal investigation into the allegations of maltreatment is being carried out jointly by the NSW Food Authority and the RSPCA. The Food Authority said the abattoir was co-operating fully with the investigation.

Before the Hawkesbury’s only abbatoir could get back to work, the company had to demonstrate it could meet strict requirements set by the NSW Food Authority.

These included employing two specialist consultants to oversee processing, one of whom is a former senior AQIS veterinarian. The cattle race has also been modified, as have procedures to move animals up the race to make movement smoother and less stressful for the animals.

CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor animal treatment, with the company regularly monitoring the footage and providing access to authorities during audits.

NSW Food Authority said the abattoir’s food safety program had been amended and stringent procedures for stunning and slaughtering had been put in place. The Food Authority said staff had completed nationally-approved animal welfare training and slaughtermen who have not completed the training will not be able to work in the abattoir.

The Food Authority said the facility will have increased audits and inspections to ensure it is complying, and further inspections will also be carried out by the RSPCA.