Alexander Watson: Jancourt East cattle farmer fined in animal cruelty case

A Victorian farmer has been fined for aggravated cruelty resulting in the serious disablement of a steer. (Picture: File)

A farmer has been fined after a steer (not pictured) was found with eye cancer. File picture: Zoe Phillips

A Victorian farmer has been fined $2500 without conviction after a steer with an eye cancer growth was found with no evidence of any veterinary treatment provided.

Alexander Watson pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated cruelty in Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court this week.

Agriculture Victoria said the farmer was the owner of a number of cattle in Jancourt East in February last year, and following a report, officers had found the steer suffering from a 14cm in diameter eye cancer growth.

The department said the steer was subsequently euthanised on humane grounds.

Mr Watson pleaded guilty to one charge of aggravated cruelty resulting in the serious disablement of the animal and one charge of failing to notify an inspector of the disease in accordance with the Livestock Disease Control Act.

On top of the $2500 fine, he must pay $351 in costs to the department and was placed on a five-year Conditional Control Order, ensuring all animals in his care are provided for with a monitoring order imposed.

Agriculture Victoria compliance manager Daniel Bode said bovine eye cancer was a common condition in Hereford cattle and that the severity of eye cancers could be reduced by the early identification of growths and prompt action by either seeking veterinary treatment or culling.

“Owners who fail to take reasonable action to prevent suffering in their animals will be considered for prosecution under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986,” he said.

“Apart from the obvious pain and suffering of the animal, animal welfare breaches can jeopardise Victoria’s reputation as a humane and responsible producer of food, which can affect all producers.

“This is a reminder to all livestock producers that animal cruelty will not be tolerated by the Victorian Government or the community.”

Agriculture Victoria received and assessed 953 animal welfare reports from July 2020 to June 2021, and 309 were found to be substantiated.

Anyone wishing to make a specific complaint about livestock welfare can call Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or email [e-mail].