Identity of Mount Isa man accused of killing 41 horses near Longreach revealed

The identity of a Mount Isa man accused of shooting 41 horses - including foals and pregnant mares - near Longreach earlier this month has been revealed.

A man is expected to appear in Mount Isa magistrates court over the deaths of 41 horses near longreach. Picture: Queensland Police

A Mount Isa man who allegedly shot more than 40 horses including pregnant mares and foals has appeared in court.

Christopher John Anderson, 49, fronted Mount Isa Magistrates Court on Friday morning after he was charged with one count of injuring animals.

Mr Anderson - who faces a maximum seven years’ jail if convicted - made no application for bail and will remain in custody until his matter is next heard Monday.

He was arrested on Thursday following a major investigation that was launched by the Longreach Major and Organised Crime Squad.

Police discovered the bodies of 41 horses with multiple gunshot wounds on Yanburra Station, 60km north of Longreach last Thursday afternoon.

The horses included geldings, colts, pregnant mares, and mares with foals at foot.

The elderly property owner, who had not been at home for some time, was reportedly devastated to learn what had happened.

Longreach Regional Council mayor Tony Rayner, who had the grim task of burying the horses alongside Detective Sergeant Allan Cook, said the community was shocked and saddened by the shootings.

“It was very distressing to hear of the incident and I think the general community are very upset,” he said.