Australian winery halts kangaroo cull after backlash

An Australian winery has cancelled its planned kangaroo cull after facing heavy criticism from animal rights advocates on social media.

Milbrook winery, in the Perth Hills wine region of Western Australia, had planned a cull of kangaroos which had been invading the vineyards and eating crops to take place on April 24.

Though the “fauna management project” had been approved by Australia’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), Milbrook announced it was axing the scheme after it was met with a fierce backlash from animal-lovers on Facebook.

They had initially advertised their intention to cull in a letter sent out to local residents, according to Community News.

But after hearing the plans, community members took to Facebook, calling the winery “murderers” and accusing the team of not putting humane protection measures in place and calling on people to boycott the business altogether.

“You have spent a lot of money on your function centre and grounds, but very little if nothing on appropriate fencing to keep out kangaroos,” said one comment.

“Cheaper to shoot and slaughter wildlife it seems. Boycott this business!”

Shame on you for organising a kangaroo cull. Alternative and humane methods should be used instead. You make enough money to put proper fencing in place,” read another.

Milbrook responded to the outcry on Thursday in a Facebook post, announcing it no longer intended to carry out the cull.

It said the management plan had been cancelled directly as the result of concerns raised by the community.

The cancellation was welcomed by community members, who once again posted their appreciation on the social networking site.

“The best part about a business is admitting they are wrong and correcting their mistakes,” said Celine Sowden.

“I give you more respect then ever with your decision too no longer cull the kangaroos and for actually listening to the people and letting them have a say.”

Kangaroo populations are on the rise in some parts of Australia, which has threatened to put a strain on the wine-growing industry.