WHILE greater protection for farmers against trespassers and activism is debated in federal parliament, a Limestone Coast primary producer has shared how she was unfairly targetted by a self-proclaimed “vegan activist” who delivered a barrage of “assumptions” and “harsh” criticism over her livelihood.
The activist contacted Avenue Range farmer Lucy McCourt-Pearce over social media last week through direct message, critising her involvement in the “cruel” wool industry.
Ms McCourt-Pearce said she was upset by the confrontational stranger, who claimed she only “used the animals as a commodity”.
“It just makes me upset people feel they have the right to say something they have no idea about.
“This lady did not know who I was, what I stand for and assumed these things about me which I did not think was called for.”
The online attack coincided with the Federal Government announcement it would strengthen protections for farmers and agricultural businesses, which follows a spate of highly publicised farm trespassing events.
The bill, if passed, will amend the Criminal Code Act to include new offences related to inciting trespass or property offences.
The legislation would make it a criminal offence for activists to incite illegal activity online and would carry a penalty of up to five years jail.
Ms McCourt-Pearce said the activist first “randomly” commented on a published image and then continued to directly message her about her livelihood.
“She basically said the wool was not mine and it belonged to the sheep,” she said.
“She then continued to ask me whether I had considered why I am working in an industry which uses animals as commodity.
“The wool industry being cruel is just far from the truth and it would actually be cruel if we did not shear the sheep.”
Ms McCourt-Pearce said shearing was essential when considering the South East’s climate and the weight wool carries.
“At the end of the day, this lady has obviously seen some poor examples which are just far from reality,” the primary producer said.
“I think people need to educate themselves before they go out and attack people.
“I have friends who are vegan and we understand each other but before making assumptions they need to know both sides of the story.”
Ms McCourt-Pearce said most farmers did everything they can for their stock.
“I can look out my window and see heifers and weaners which would be calm, not in distress and are happy,” she said.
“Our stock are fed, have clean water and are not going without.
“I think it is important for farmers to know this in themselves.”
Ms McCourt-Pearce encouraged anyone who receives a similar message to not retaliate in a “nasty way”.
“I never thought I would be in this situation before,” she said.
“I think half the time you can try and explain and educate.
“You may be ignored but we know what we are doing and I would not let it get you down.”
