Farmers have reacted angrily to a column from Member for Fremantle’s Josh Wilson today which, in his words, declared the live sheep export industry as “virtually defunct”.

The Federal Government have formally declared their plans to end live sheep exports as chilled and frozen exports take their place, yet the Pastoralists & Graziers Association remains firm on their opinion live sheep exports are a viable part of the industry.

PGA President Tony Seabrook told Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings he believed Mr Wilson and those responsible are completely unaware of the effect shutting down the industry will have.

“They have held meetings all over the southern agricultural area of Western Australia, and they had no concept of the complications involved in shutting the trade down,” Mr Seabrook said.

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