News & Media: 2000 pigs killed in Young piggery fire
2000 pigs killed in Young piggery fire
STAFF at the Wonga Piggery near Young will be offered counselling after more than 2000 pigs were killed in a shed fire this morning.
The fire started in one of the operation's newest sheds at 5.20am this morning, with NSW Rural Fire Service working to conatin the blaze for a hour.
Up to 2500 pigs aged between four and six weeks old were killed and the shed was mostly destroyed.
About 1000 animals were able to be saved.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Australian Pork spokeswoman Emily Mackintosh said police were investigating the cause of the blaze.
Mrs Mackintosh said counselling would be organised for piggery staff.
"The emotional impact on the people who work with and are connected to these animals, they are absolutely traumatised," Mrs Mackintosh said.
"Any loss of life like this is an absolute tragedy."
Before the fire Windridge Farms had 7000 at the Wonga Piggery.
In April, 400 pigs died in a fire at the Boen Boe piggery near Bowral in the Southern Highlands.
