RSPCA call to ban calf roping in Queensland

It’s already banned in other state but now there is a renewed push to end calf roping in Queensland. VOTE IN THE POLL

Animal welfare groups are pushing for calf roping to be banned in Queensland insisting a new study proves the act is “violent and callous”.

The study conducted by the RSPCA showed animals had “signs of fear and distress” despite guidelines to the practice being changed in 2022.

The common rodeo sport is already banned in South Australia and Victoria, while rodeos are not allowed at all in the ACT.

There have been calls by the RSPCA to ban calf roping. Picture: RSPCA

RSPCA Australia senior scientific officer and co-author of the study Dr Di Evans said calf roping caused unnecessary and unjustifiable suffering to animals.

“This study found that throughout the entire ordeal – chasing, lassoing, catching and restraint, leg tying and release – the calves in the video footage were showing what animal welfare science tells us are clear and well-recognised signs of fear and distress,” Dr Evans said.

“The footage showed that the calves consistently tried to escape the violent and callous treatment inherent in calf roping, where competitors race against the clock.”

Dr Evans said it was distressing and frightening for the calves and gave physical injuries like bruising and broken ribs.

“The RSPCA calls on all state and territory governments to put a stop to this cruel event, as has already been done in some jurisdictions,” she said.

“Businesses can also take a stand by refusing to support rodeos, especially rodeos where calf roping takes place.”

Champion calf roper Shane Kenny said he had been part of research in the past.

“That’s the industry being open minded, we want to meet all our obligations and be mindful for our animals and respect,” Mr Kenny said.

“At the end of the day we are using them everyday, looking after them.”

Mr Kenny said the previous study tested calves’ blood samples before and after being roped and their levels didn’t change too much.

“They’ve supposably found this new study, it’s not new at all,” he said.

“What we can do is control what we do and do the right things by animals. Make sure they are treated with respect and looked after.”

Mr Kenny said over time rules have been changed to help the animal welfare.

National Rodeo Association chairman Jason Hall said a new animal practice was introduced last year and included calf roping based on previous studies.

The effectiveness of the guidelines will be reviewed in 2026, Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said.

“The Palaszczuk Government initiated Queensland’s first mandatory code of practice for rodeo events in January 2022, working with the rodeo industry and animal welfare organisations,” he said.

“The guidelines include specific requirements for rope and tie and other events to ensure best possible practices are in place for protecting animals.”