A Wagga Wagga man who was convicted of running an illegal knackery on his property has been fined $12,000 and ordered to pay $30,952.58 costs in the Wagga Wagga Local Court on Tuesday 23 June 2026.
Adrian Talbot was convicted of two charges under the NSW Food Act 2003, operating an unlicensed knackery and operating an unlicensed animal food van. A third charge pertaining to a biosecurity breach was withdrawn.
The actions occurred between 29 August 2023 and 22 May 2024 and were uncovered as a result of a multi-agency investigation led by Wagga Wagga City Council and supported by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Local Land Serves, NSW Police and Racing NSW.
During the operation, DPIRD compliance officers confirmed that the property was being used to slaughter horses and pigs for sale as pet meat for greyhounds. Animal carcasses at various stages of decay were observed on the property.
Compliance officers seized 300kg of meat (horse and pig) as evidence of the operation of an unlicensed knackery.
NSW Food Authority CEO Andrew Davies said the result sends a strong message to people flouting the rules.
"There are strict regulations in place for processing animals for animal food.
"This includes licensing and registration that ensures skills, knowledge and safety controls.
"The NSW Food Authority routinely undertakes inspections of knackeries to ensure the community can have confidence in the system".
