RSPCA inspectors have seized 75 roosters allegedly groomed for cockfighting and 119 other birds at a property near Malmsbury.
RSPCA Victoria executed a warrant last Wednesday on a suspected cockfighting operation, with assistance from Victoria Police.
Among the 119 other birds seized were chicks, mature hens, and juvenile roosters. Cockfighting implements were also discovered and removed from the property.
The owner is currently eight years into a 10-year banning order from a previous prosecution prohibiting them from being the person in charge of poultry before November 2022.
Cockfighting is illegal in Australia and it is also illegal to possess any equipment designed for cockfighting.
RSPCA Victoria inspectorate team leader Karen Collier said the successful operation was achievable due to the joint efforts of RSPCA, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Brimbank City Council and police.
“While all those involved in this investigation were pleased with the outcome, it is a shocking reality that cockfighting, a barbaric activity, continues to operate in Victoria,” Ms Collier said.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s director of assets and operations Shane Walden said council officers played a key role in identifying and providing intelligence that led to the execution of RSPCA’s warrants.
“Cockfighting is an abhorrent and cruel activity leading to severe suffering of the roosters involved,” he said.
“Council takes a zero-tolerance approach to animal fighting and works closely with RSPCA and Victoria Police to stamp out any identified cruelty to animals. Council is continuing investigations into conditions and structures at the property.”
Multiple RSPCA Victoria staff were involved in assessing and removing the birds including seven inspectors, two veterinarians and one animal attendant. Representatives from the local council and local Malmsbury police were also present.
Western Region Five’s acting superintendent Chris Large said animal cruelty matters were taken very seriously and encouraged community members to report such matters to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
