Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and Animal Liberation (Limited) of New South Wales appeared in the Federal Court today, Thursday 2 November 2006.
AWI Deputy CEO, Les Targ said this court case is a costly exercise, but an imperative part of the Australian Wool and Sheep Industry Taskforce's strategy to protect our markets for Australian Merino wool.
Gilbert and Tobin, lawyers for PETA have lodged yet another application in the Federal Court to have claims by the woolgrower co-applicants struck out.
Justice Rares deferred this matter to a directions hearing on 17 November 2006; expressing his displeasure with PETA's lawyers for making last minute and hurried changes to their application.
"In its attempts to shutdown the wool industry, we believe PETA has broken the law. We have a responsibility to stop them with a court order, and make them pay for the losses they have caused," said Mr Targ.
"The woolgrower co-applicants want their day in court, they want the opportunity to protect their livelihoods.
"Justice Rares agreed with AWI's proposition that the case in relation to woolgrower losses should be clarified and directed AWI to file additional documents by 4 November 2006. PETA's lawyers then have until 17 November to file any objections to the woolgrowers' claim, when this case is back before the court for a directions hearing.
"The crucial part of this case is the injunction to stop PETA and its affiliates from carrying out any further illegal activity, intended to destroy the Australian wool industry, and the livelihoods of woolgrowers, their families and their local communities.
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