Australian Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud this weekend condemned the invasion of a feedlot and dairy farm at Lemon Tree in his constituency of Maranoa.

According to the minister, police from surrounding towns had to intervene when 100 animal rights activists entered the property.

He added that this was the second farm listed on a map created by activist group Aussie Farms to be attacked in recent months.

A similar map has been drawn from public records in Britain under the name Project Calf, with activists encouraged to take video recordings on farms.

They are prepared to intimidate innocent Australians and their actions taint their own cause

Minister Littleproud was critical of animal welfare activists.

"They have no moral compass when they are prepared to intimidate innocent Australians and their actions taint their own cause," he said.

"A real deterrent is needed before someone gets seriously hurt or killed. There are children living on these family farms."

Last month, an Australian farmer was reported to have fired a warning shot after activists taking pictures of his farm refused to leave.

Penalties

According to the minister, penalties imposed after such incidents have been mere "slaps on the wrist", with examples of trespassers receiving fines of €0.60 in one case and €125 in another. "States must create a serious penalty for trespassing on family farms," he said.

"Vegans eat plenty of farm produce and I respect their right to be vegan. However, nobody has the right to trespass on to people's family properties," Minister Littleproud added.

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