The first live export boat to leave Weipa in almost a decade loaded with cattle from Cape York Peninsula sailed yesterday, bound for Indonesia.
Months in the planning, the almost 2000 head of cattle were loaded on Tuesday before setting sail at daybreak.
Emma Jackson, Wolverton Station, Cape York Peninsula Live Export Group, said the boat represented a new start to an old, existing industry.
“It is not just a boat, it really is the start to the once existing export industry out of the far north,” Mrs Jackson said.
For three months, Mrs Jackson and Cameron Maclean, Merluna Station, export group vice president, worked with local businesses, groups, volunteers and graziers to set up the temporary yards near Humbug Wharf, to facilitate the shipment.
“We have received endless support from locals,” Mrs Jackson said.
She said the shipment proved how challenging export currently is for Australian exporters.
“There are a lot that producers that don't know or understand about exporting live cattle and with the price of cattle being so strong, it makes it even more challenging for exporters,” Mrs Jackson said.
“We need producers on side supporting the exporters and working with them over the next two years to strengthen the industry all over Australia.
“Cape York producers need to support cattle export as it will become a consistent strong market with guaranteed prices, reduced stress on the cattle and reduced travel time.
“Not only does this bring costs down, but animal welfare will be improved.
“Better they travel for a couple of hours than a whole day.”
Mrs Jackson credited exporter, Austrex, for “going above and beyond” to make the boat happen.
“This boat saw Cape York properties contribute but next time we hope the contributions will be stronger,” Mrs Jackson said.
“There is a lot of cattle in Cape York and further south, with the road developing and cattle numbers growing, we can certainly make more boats happen.
“This industry is possible but we need the cattle to make boats happen.”
