Kangaroo Industry
Here is a little information about the kangaroo industry...
Population
Kangaroo populations in Australia are monitored and regulated by the
Australian Department of Environment and Heritage. Modern farming
techniques in Australia have provided the perfect combination of feed,
water and grazing pastures for the Kangaroo population. The current
Kangaroo population exceeds the number at the time of Australian
settlement.
The Department of Environment and heritage monitors kangaroo numbers
in each state and sets quotas for each region relative to its
population. Populations are monitored by aerial survey. The quotas are
specific to region and also to the species of Kangaroo.
There are 48 species of Kangaroo in Australia and only 5 of those
can be commercially harvested. Permits can be issued to accredited
Field Processors (Harvesters) who carry out the culling in accordance
with the industry regulation.
Field Processors (Harvesters) can only supply carcasses to
Accredited Game Meat Processors who record the weight, species and
origin of the animals. This information is recorded for the Department
of Environment and Heritage, National Parks and Department of Primary
Industry.
Field Processors
Field Processors must be accredited with the Department of Primary
Industry and licensed by the Department of Environment and Heritage.
Their vehicles must also be inspected regularly by approved government
agents to ensure they meet design requirements and hygiene criteria.
Field Processors vehicles are used to transport the carcasses from the
field to the refrigeration depots.
Field processors accreditation includes Firearms Accuracy and Game Meat Hygiene and Handling courses.
Chiller Sites
Chiller sites are large free standing refrigerated buildings, or a
series of refrigerated shipping containers. The Chiller Sites also have
preparation, sanitation and segregation facilities to ensure hygienic
carcass storage.
Chiller sites are located in rural areas where commercial culling
takes place. These facilities are managed in accordance with Department
of Environment and Heritage, Department of Primary Industry and the
Health Departments sanitation regulations. Sites are fully equipped to
manage the storage, handling and integrity of the animals prior to
collection by processors.