I feel so badly for the Lemontree Feedlot family. This is nothing short of appalling. Imagine 120 people arriving on the doorstep of your business that you operate from your home where your family and employees families live, with the sole intent of defaming you and your business simply because they chose to lead a vegan lifestyle. (link below)
As it stands we can not prevent anyone from entering our farm and if they do, we can not prosecute them with any effective result. They are simply above the law as it currently stands. Farmers are being judged guilty by social media kangaroo courts while the real criminals are laughing at every form of law enforcement.
They are able to operate under the guise of Not For Profit organisations, with tax benefits that are effectively funding criminal activities.
So let’s look at a few basic truths about our Australian Feedlot Industry.....
1. Cattle spend an average of 95 days on feed in a feedlot
2. There are 400 accredited feedlots in Australia
3. The average feedlot capacity is 2,793 head.
4. 96% are Australian owned and over 95% are FAMILY owned.
5. The Australian feedlotters developed Australia’s first accreditation scheme for their members to adhere to in 1994.
Also remember as we in rural Australia struggle through a major drought, feedlots provide a drought mitigation strategy for beef producers.
They allow for cattle to be sold in a finished condition when there is no feed in the paddocks. They allow for stock numbers to be lightened off reducing impact on grazing land that is under pressure without rain. They allow for consumers to enjoy high quality beef year round despite the season. They give grain producers a market for grain that is not suitable for human consumption. They provide employment to rural communities and support local businesses.
While we personally have not yet been affected by activists, it is quite draining as you become suspicious of strange vehicles, dubious of people motives & questions, and simply must now investigate every unknown noise or light at night.
I am angry because we have always welcomed inquiries and visits but now we are far too distrustful of motives. I am angry that we need to explain to our young children that they need to tell us if they see strangers or drones around our family home. I am angry that social media is a platform for lies and fabrications about our farmers. I am angry that suspect footage and monetary motives can see our farming businesses defamed.
We aim to do everything we can for the cattle in our care. We pride ourselves on what we do and how well we do it.
Australian farmers need protection to be allowed to produce the best beef in the world. We need to be entrusted with the right to farm. We need your support, not in dollars but in voices to drown out the lunatic fringe who wish to impose their lifestyle choices on everyone.
If you ever have a question about food or fibre production please take the time to ask a farmer.
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