The last few days have confirmed that live export isn't an issue that's going to quietly go away. All signs are that it will be a key political concern for some time yet.
The ABC Four Corners program 'A Bloody Business' won yet another award, this time a logie for outstanding public affairs report.This is in addition to a number of other prestigious awards won by reporter Sarah Ferguson, including a Gold Walkley.
But the live export story isn't simply an example of exceptional journalism. It continues to stir emotions. This weekend two protests were held in two Australian cities, both in opposition to live export.
In Sydney more than 200 people gathered outside Town Hall. Speakers asserted that government regulation of live export is 'tokenistic' and 'ineffectual'.
Meanwhile, PETA organised a protest in Brisbane at which protesters dressed as sheep demanded an end to both live animal exports and mulesing.
To top off the weekend, the newly elected Greens leader Christine Milne confirmed her party's ongoing commitment to ending Australia's live export trade. She did so on ABC Radio National Breakfast this morning.
In late March, a meeting of live exporters heard that 'animal welfare activists remain among biggest threats to livestock exports, a forum of farmers has heard'. Seems like they may have been right, although outstanding journalism doesn't appear to be helping the exporters' cause either.
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