Mornington Peninsula, 27 April 2025 – Concerns over horse welfare at a Mt Eliza property have reignited community outrage, with residents planning a peaceful protest today, Sunday 27 April, calling for urgent action.
The property, located along Moorooduc Highway, is the focus of fresh allegations after images and eyewitness reports surfaced online showing horses in poor condition, with some appearing emaciated. Community members have launched a petition demanding intervention, attracting over 4000 signatures within days.
The case has drawn particular attention given the property’s history. In 2017, RSPCA Victoria seized 17 horses from the same location due to welfare concerns, following a prolonged investigation and public outcry.
Further allegations of animal welfare failures have also been raised. In 2023, Sarah, a local resident reported witnessing a distressed newborn foal at the property, alleging that emergency assistance from authorities was slow and ineffective. Despite calls to the RSPCA, council, and police, bystanders were left to assist the foal without adequate veterinary support. The foal was believed to have died shortly afterwards.
Today, RSPCA Victoria confirmed it is actively investigating the latest reports, stating that seven underweight horses have been identified and that the owner is cooperating to improve their condition.
In a statement, RSPCA Victoria urged the community to allow the investigation to continue without interference, warning that the premature relocation of horses could cause additional harm. They also noted the strain placed on inspectors by an increase in reports generated through social media.
However, some locals believe the issue is far more widespread than officially acknowledged. Protest organisers claim that dozens of horses are in poor health on the property, not just seven, and have expressed frustration at what they perceive to be delayed enforcement action.
Photographs shared publicly show multiple horses with visible ribs and hips, while eyewitness accounts describe young horses, pregnant mares, and animals with hoof damage.
The following images were captured yesterday, 26 April 2024 by Yvonne, another concerned community member. In the front area of the property, 14 horses were observed, with at least two appearing very thin. Towards the rear, an estimated 27 horses were sighted, including a heavily pregnant mare and several young horses showing signs of malnourishment. One horse appeared confined to a shed. Observations suggest that breeding practices on the property may not align with acceptable stud standards, with concerns raised about feeding, handling, and hoof care. The photos were taken from a considerable distance to avoid confrontation.
STPL News has attempted to contact the owner but they have not returned any of our communication attemps. Additionally, STPL News has spoken to neighbouring property owners, local residents, and concerned community members. We have also written formally to RSPCA Victoria requesting further comment and clarification regarding the current investigation.
The peaceful protest is scheduled for Sunday from 2pm at Emil Madsen Reserve, Rear of 550 Moorooduc Hwy. Organisers are encouraging participants to remain respectful, lawful, and mindful of ongoing investigations.
Residents with direct knowledge of animal welfare concerns are encouraged to report them via the RSPCA Victoria cruelty line on 03 9224 2222 or online at rspcavic.org.
STPL News will continue to monitor developments and report from tomorrow’s protest.
3 Responses
I’ve long been aware that our animal protection laws are too weak to do what’s required. This shocking case is an example. Once found to be a person who has neglected animals, simply shouldn’t be allowed to own any animals again.
Locals have watched this sad story evolve before their eyes for years.
The RSPCA statement does absolutely nothing to ease my concern. I support several animal rescues in Melbourne who have been frustrated by their intransigence.
With 4,000 people signing a petition within 48 hours, the concerns are that ALL ANIMALS MUST BE RESCUED NOW. If the RSPCA doesn’t have the necessary resources, I’m sure that the Mornington Peninsula community will find them. We are a community of equestrian people and veterinary professionals who can provide the best care.
It’s not lost on anyone reading this that our laws protect the abuser not those who would willingly supply care and safety for the animals.
I’ve long been aware that our animal protection laws are too weak to do what’s required. This shocking case is an example. Once found to be a person who has neglected animals, simply shouldn’t be allowed to own any animals again.
Locals have watched this sad story evolve before their eyes for years.
The RSPCA statement does absolutely nothing to ease my concern. I support several animal rescues in Melbourne who have been frustrated by their intransigence.
With 4,000 people signing a petition within 48 hours, the concerns are that ALL ANIMALS MUST BE RESCUED NOW. If the RSPCA doesn’t have the necessary resources, I’m sure that the Mornington Peninsula community will find them. We are a community of equestrian people and veterinary professionals who can provide the best care.
It’s not lost on anyone reading this that our laws protect the abuser not those who would willingly supply care and safety for the animals.
As another person who knows another property owner in the area who is also vastly neglecting the animals and have known of at least a dozen animals that have died there recently.. many reports have been made to the RSPCA over the last few years (since the neglect worsened) and also by the community and yet the RPSCA does absolutely nothing. Even when shown awful photos and even when told that the worst animals are kept in a different part of the property and yet all they do is leave a slip in a letterbox. It’s a joke.
I used to have so much respect for them but no longer the case. They’re a disgusting excuse for being in charge of rescuing animals in need of help.