Heartbreaking reason why more than 3,000 sheep are about to be shot dead - as ... trends now
A West Australian farmer is preparing to shoot 3,000 sheep because he can't find a buyer for them - or else let them starve to death because he can't feed them all.
Wayne Smith from Caluka Farms in Narrikup, four hours south-east of Perth, said he was heartbroken at the decision he is forced to make.
'It is such very hard times for sheep farmers in Western Australia,' he posted on social media.
He said it was 'a very teary day for me, organising with a neighbour to dig a pit big enough to put 3,000-plus sheep in'.
'I can't cope with the thought of shooting them,' he added.
'When no one can buy them, there is no more money to buy feed for them (if you can find any to buy).
'There is no feed in the paddocks and sometimes no water, there is no choice.
'We can't let them suffer from hunger and thirst. It breaks our hearts having to do it. Gut wrenching.'
Farmer Wayne Smith from Caluka Farms said he has been in tears but is running out of options
What caused the situation?
The Albanese government has committed to phasing out live sheep exports from Australia by sea, which another WA farmer, Steven Bolt from Claypans Merino Stud, said was causing 'complete industry destruction'.
'Growers lose confidence and try to sell out of sheep, causing an oversupply to the market and no space at the abattoir. Feed costs are sky high and often there's none available.'
Federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt appointed an independent panel to provide advice about 'how and when' to ban the exports which held consultations 'at very short notice' with farmers last year.
A report was handed back to the government at the end of 2023 but farmers do not know how and when the minister intends to shut down the trade.
Federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt during a senate estimates hearing in February
The phase out does not apply to other livestock export industries, such as live cattle exports, nor does it apply to live sheep exports by air.
'Phasing out live sheep exports by sea is a complex issue that will impact farmers, businesses, our trading partners, and the communities that participate in the trade,' Mr Watt said.
'I am also conscious that the
