Several dairy calves were killed during a shed fire at Kyabram (Australia) after they were reportedly doused in fuel and set alight in a horror cruelty case.
Campaspe Crime Investigation Unit detectives attended the scene at a Kyabram dairy farm after the blaze started about 9.30am on Friday last week.
‘‘(Officers) are investigating a suspicious fire and the death of a number of calves at a Kyabram farm,’’ spokesman Luke Zammit said.
‘‘Emergency services extinguished the fire and a number of calves were located deceased inside.’’
It is believed the calves were doused in a flammable liquid and set on fire, with The Age reporting that the Monk family lost 41 out of their 51 dairy calves in the attack.
Fifth generation farmer John Monk said he and his family were devastated.
‘‘We’re so distressed about it,’’ Mr Monk told The Age.
‘‘Most farmers do what they do because they love their animals. They were our babies.’’
On Facebook, Gemma Monk wrote to thank authorities for their help after the blaze.
‘‘Many thanks for all the support from friends, family, fellow dairy farmers and the wider dairy industry community,’’ she wrote.
‘‘Please respect that we are unable to comment about the incident as it’s an ongoing police investigation.
‘‘If anyone has any information, please contact the Kyabram police.
‘‘May I also send a huge thanks to the police, CFA and government vets who have assisted us.’’
■Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800333000.
Source: Country News
