AUSTRALIA: It’s time for the RSPCA to get real

There aren't too many cattle loaded onto boats from the western Queensland district of Mitchell, but that was no deterrent to AgForce cattle president, Grant Maudsley, who delivered a spirited defence of the live export trade at the recent RSPCA forum.

As the last speaker of the day, Mr Maudsley sat through hours of presentations denouncing the trade.

He acknowledged RSPCA's charter to protect animals, but called on those in the forum to reconsider their position and protect the livelihoods of Australian families in the far north.

"Under a ban scenario your organisation would need to recognise the damage it would inflict on our families, livelihoods and the regional communities this important industry supports," he said.

"Live exports, if carried out responsibly, are a necessary market outlet for Australian cattle to maintain industry profitability and sustainability."

Mr Maudsley said there were also other important considerations to weigh up, such as the risk of offending Indonesia by imposing Australian 'wish lists', contrary to Indonesian beliefs.

"We need to be inclusive and balanced in our approach to welfare solutions," he said.

"We need to provide time to allow alternatives, and we need you to base your decisions on science rather than emotion."