A stranded live export ship carrying about 16,500 animals has docked at Fremantle, where it is expected to be partially offloaded before resuming its journey.

February 1, 2024

A ship carrying thousands of sheep and cattle that has been at sea for almost a month has docked in Western Australia, where some of the animals are expected to be offloaded.

About 16,500 animals have been packed into the MV Bahijah since January 5, when it sailed for the Middle East from Fremantle before being ordered to abandon its voyage due to Houthis’ rebel attacks in the Red Sea.

It’s been stranded off Perth since returning to Australian waters, sparking fears for the animals’ welfare as authorities scrambled to formulate a plan to quarantine the livestock.

The vessel docked in Fremantle Port on Thursday, according to The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, but it remains unclear when and how many animals will be offloaded.

The department said it was working closely with the exporter to determine the next steps for the livestock and reach a resolution as quickly as possible.

On Wednesday, the federal government sent two veterinarians onto the vessel to inspect the animals.

Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said there were no significant animal health or welfare issues identified.

“That provides additional confidence that the livestock are in good condition and have appropriate care and supervision,” she said.

“It also confirmed that there were no signs of exotic disease present in the livestock on board the vessel.”

The department continues to assess an application to re-export the livestock, which is likely to see the animals at sea for another month as the MV Bahijah sails around Africa to access Jordan via the Suez Canal and avoid the Middle East conflict zone.