State Conference rates live exports as vital issue

New Livestock and Rural Transport Association WA president Andy Jacob says live exporting is the number one topic affecting the industry.

Mr Jacob was named president of the association at Saturday’s annual conference in Bunbury, replacing Stephen Marley.

Mr Jacob said he was keen to use his new role to educate the public on how association members transported live animals.

“We are well aware that the footage which upset everybody is not industry standard,” he said.

“Animal welfare, from our point of view as livestock carriers, is paramount.

“We are now doing our job cleaner, neater and better than we have ever done before and it is not being recognised.”

Mr Jacob said his industry was only one of a number of professions involved in live export.

“Establishing relationships is one of the most important roles I want to look at,” he said.

“As an advocacy group we need to have a positive impact in the industry.

“I just want to advocate for a better workplace and better conditions for our members.”

Mr Jacob was pleased with the turnout at this year’s conference.

“Obviously there are a number of topics we needed to cover this weekend and the response from the industry was fantastic,” he said.

“We need to build off that momentum and move forward.”