Huon Valley Caravan Park farmstay raw milk row set for talks

A TOURISM operator who fell foul of state laws after offering guests a taste of milk fresh from the cow will meet the Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority.

A TOURISM operator who has fallen foul of state laws after offering guests a taste of milk fresh from the cow will meet the Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority today.

Rowen Carter, who runs the Huon Valley Caravan Park, will meet Franklin MP Nic Street and representatives from the TDIA in Hobart to talk about the situation.

Mr Carter said he had been overwhelmed with messages of support since news broke he had been forced to stop offering paying guests a taste of milk during his daily milking demonstration because of a caution from the TDIA following an anonymous complaint.

Huon Valley Caravan Park owner Rowen Carter.

“There have been 150,000 clicks on our Facebook page over the weekend. Most people are saying just how ridiculous the situation is,” he said.

“Tasmanians are allowed to smoke cigarettes and eat and drink junk food but not taste some milk fresh from a cow. “That just doesn’t seem right.”

Mr Street said the caravan park was a popular drawcard.

MORE: IS HUON VALLEY PARK OWNER GETTING A RAW DEAL?

“I am meeting with the owner of the park and the TDIA to see if there is anything that the Government can do to assist,” he said.

Tomorrow, Mr Carter has a meeting with State Labor MPs Scott Bacon (tourism spokesman) and Rebecca White (primary industries).

“I’m hopeful an outcome can be found that allows Rowen to continue to offer a genuine experience to visitors,” Ms White said.

The TDIA became involved after a complaint the caravan park was “selling” raw milk.

As part of his milking demonstration for the past four years, Mr Carter said he had offered paying guests a taste and sometimes homemade cheese made with raw milk.

“Some people say no thank you, others love the experience,” he said.

The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment last week said a risk assessment had identified raw cow’s milk was associated with foodborne illness internationally and had been linked to illnesses in Australia.

Acting Director of Public Health Dr Mark Veitch on Friday issued a warning against drinking raw milk.

Originally published as Huon Valley Caravan Park farmstay raw milk row set for talks