Wellard adds ‘floating farm’ to growing export fleet

02-May-2016 - Last updated on 03-May-2016 at 09:48 GMT

Improvements to the vessel will improve animal welfare, according to Wellard

One of Australia’s largest livestock exporters, Wellard, has added a purpose-built ship that can carry 20,000 cows to its fleet of “floating farm livestock carriers”.

The M/V Ocean Shearer has improved ventilation and fresh water production facilities which will enhance the welfare of livestock during the time it is shipped from Australia to another destination.

It’s an upgraded version of Wellard’s flagship boat, the M/V Ocean Drover, and is one of the fastest ships of its kind in the industry. Wellard’s Mauro Balzarini said he had “high expectations” for the boat as it will be able to transport livestock for longer and further – crucial as new markets open and distances increase.

“We have improved what is already an industry benchmark, our M/V Ocean Drover, with stronger ventilation, higher fresh water production, and other enhancements of livestock services,” said Mauro Balzarini.

“These improvements will enhance animal welfare outcomes while the additional fodder capacity provides greater voyage planning flexibility and reduced costs. The vessel’s build quality is excellent and its electronically-controlled engines will ensure high efficiency and low emissions.“
Sea farm

Balzarini also said the boat will steer Wellard to increasing its international trade in live sheep and cattle to meet growing global demand for meat. The inclusion of the M/V Ocean Shearer ensures that Wellard will continue to operate one of the youngest livestock transporting fleets in the world.

The 23,400sqm capacity of the new boat will be able to carry around 20,000 cattle, 75,000 sheep or a combination of both. It will also be able to hold around 3,000 tonnes of animal feed.

In addition to the transport of livestock, Wellard also operates an abattoir in Western Australia which processes around 2,500 sheep and lambs a day.