The RSPCA, Victoria Police and logistical teams are carrying out a large-scale operation today at the Mount Eliza property of disgraced former racehorse trainer Maxine Fraser.
The property, located at 550 Moorooduc Highway, has been at the centre of ongoing controversy and months of community protests over the welfare of horses kept on site.
It is understood that at least one mare and foal have already been removed, and another horse float was seen leaving the property earlier this afternoon.
Police have locked down the area, with officers preventing the public and media from approaching while the operation continues.
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Community Reaction
For campaigners who have staged weekly protests outside the property for more than five months, today marks a significant turning point.
Protest organiser Carly Wines posted on the Peaceful Protest Mt Eliza Horses Facebook group:
“I’m so pleased to say that we have a current horse seizure in place at Mt Eliza. Police & RSPCA in attendance from 9.30. I do ask that people please stay away from the area to make this a smooth operation… This is not all animals. This is a huge start for the foals born and yet to arrive.”
Wines described the operation as the result of “months of continuous reporting and bearing witness,” crediting the persistence of locals and supporters who refused to give up.
“This is months of work, blood sweat and tears… This is all we wanted. The community have spoken,” she wrote.
Long-running community campaign
For more than six months, locals and animal welfare advocates have staged weekly demonstrations outside the property, demanding urgent action. Protesters have described the site as “an equine house of horrors” and raised concerns about missing or neglected horses.
The operation marks the first decisive intervention by authorities since the protests began, and campaigners are already hailing the raid as a significant victory for both the community and the animals.
Ongoing investigation
The RSPCA has not yet issued a public statement about the raid, and it remains unclear how many animals are expected to be removed.
The action comes after growing political and community pressure for authorities to act, with locals maintaining a constant presence at the gates of the Moorooduc Highway property to ensure the welfare of the horses.
Developing story
This is a developing story. STPL News will continue to provide updates as information comes to hand.
About time!!! Hopefully there is now an inquiry into RSPCA.
Absolutely, there should be an enquiry as to why this had gone on so long. The RSPCA should be held accountable for so many deaths on this property. I hope every animal on the property is removed.
why dose the RSPCA care for these animals, when they agree to the aerial shooting of the heritage wild Brumbies. RSPCA are a joke, lost my fate in RSPCA for animals.
A long time coming. Well done to everyone helping!????