Members of the Queensland Police Service’s Stock and Rural Crime Investigation Squad have been appointed to investigate the deaths of 46 heifers at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry's 'Swans Lagoon' property near Ayr.

Queensland agriculture ministerJohn McVeigh said the officers had been appointed to conduct an investigation independent of DAFF.

“These officers will have full access to all of the staff and information they need to conduct a full and thorough investigation into how this tragic incident occurred,” Minister McVeigh said.

"As the Department is responsible for administering the Animal Care and Protection Act, the matter must be investigated by an independent authority.

“All instances of potential animal neglect or mistreatment should be investigated wherever they occur, not just in Queensland.

“In addition to the police investigation, the DAFF Director-General is also initiating an immediate review of management processes right across departmental properties to ensure we do not have any repeat incidents.”

Source: QDAFF