Media Release Media Release Media Release

4 November, 2006

NO PROTECTION FOR TASMANIAN RODEO ANIMALS THIS SEASON

As Tasmania heads into another rodeo season this weekend at Melton Mowbray, Against Animal Cruelty Tasmania would like the public to be aware that as yet there is no code of practice to protect the terrorised animals at Tasmanian rodeos.

Last rodeo season in Tasmania AACT gathered disturbing footage of animals dying on the arena, being kicked in the head while suffering from a broken back, crashing into steel fences at high speed, being tormented with various implements and even a steer being electrocuted on the face by a minor using an electric prod. Animals were filmed being blinded by bright lights at twilight rodeos and subjected to extremely loud rock music blasting from speakers behind them.

AACT rodeo spokesperson Emma Haswell said;

“Last season AACT filmed rodeos for the first time. In a few short weeks at only a handful of rodeos we filmed a shocking number of animals being injured, some of which had to be destroyed as a direct result of them being pushed beyond their physical capabilities.”

She went on to say;

“We would like people to be aware that rodeos are no better monitored this season than last season, there is still no enforceable code of practice for these events and no permit system is in place. We would ask that people give thought to the animals that died last year and those that will again this year be subjected to extreme distress due to the inherently cruel nature of rodeos”

AACT would like to encourage the strong stance that was taken by the public last year and hope that again people will vote with their feet and not attend rodeos this season. AACT, along with all other animal welfare and animal rights organisations stands firmly on the issue that rodeos need to be banned.

Ms Haswell concluded by saying;

“There is no calf roping event that is not brutal, no horse that should be subjected to such devices such as lead ropes wrapped around his ears or spurs raking and jabbing at his body, or flank straps or blasting rock music. There is no animal that should have to suffer the distress that is caused by rodeos purely for the entertainment of a few. Our children should not be witness to such a distinct lack of respect for animals.”

For more information: Emma Haswell, Rodeo Campaign Coordinator, tel: 0408 970 359