rspca annual report 2007 us/Annual Report/RSPCA... · 2011-07-11 · rspca annual report 2007 The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc. 3 Burwood

rspca annual report 2007

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc.

3 Burwood Highway Burwood East 3151

Phone: (03) 9224 2222 Fax: (03) 9224 2200

Donation Line: 1300 300 662 Website: www.rspcavic.org

Registered Number: A0024329X. ABN: 56749449191.

RSPCA Victoria

RSPCA ProfileThe Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Victoria was established in Melbourne in 1871.

The RSPCA is an independent animal welfare charity, which relies on community support to fund its vital animal welfare services. The RSPCA holds Deductible Gift Recipient status from the Australian Taxation Office and is an income tax exempt charity. The RSPCA Victorian state office is located in Burwood East, Melbourne.

RSPCA Victoria is a member of RSPCA Australia (the federation of the eight state and territory RSPCAs in Australia). The RSPCA National Council is made up of two representatives (CEO and President or their nominees) from each member Society.

RSPCA Victoria operates eleven animal welfare shelters, which provide refuge and care for stray, injured and abandoned animals and adoption services for the community. RSPCA inspectors investigate cruelty complaints, prosecute offenders and rescue animals from dangerous situations.

The key objectives of the RSPCA are to raise the knowledge and skills of the community in the care and treatment of animals and to advocate improved legislation. Legislative improvements for animal welfare have been achieved at both state and federal levels through lobbying from the RSPCA.

As part of our commitment to gain improvements in animal welfare legislation, the RSPCA (both at a state and national level) participates on numerous committees that review legislation and codes of practice, and lobby for necessary modifications and additions.

contents

Objectives, Vision and Values 1

Highlights 2006/2007 2-5

President’s Report 6-7

Councillors 8-9

CEO’s Report 10-11

Organisational Effectiveness 12-13

Developing Our People 14-15

Influencing Public Opinion 16-17

Animal Welfare Advocacy 18-19

Shelter Facility Development 20-21

Enhancing the 5 Freedoms for Animals – Shelters 22 -25

Enhancing the 5 Freedoms for Animals – Veterinary Care 26-27

Inspectorate 28-31

Community Presence 32-33

Income Generation 34-35

Major Donors 36

Corporate Partners 37

Bequestors and Trusts 38

Honorary Life Members 39

Financial Report 40-54

RSPCA Contact Details 55

welcome

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Photography (Cover, Welcome, Highlights, pages 2, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 33, 39) courtesy of James Walshe Photography

BallaratPO Box 4050, Ballarat 3353 Phone: 5334 2075

Bendigo20 Piper Lane, Bendigo East 3550 Phone: 5441 2209

CastlemainePO Box 701, Castlemaine 3450 Phone: 5472 5277

EchucaPO Box 1170, Echuca 3564 Phone: 0418 307 889

EppingO’Hearns Road, Epping 3076 Phone: 9408 7356

Peninsula1030 Robinsons Road, Pearcedale 3912 Phone: 5978 6706

PortlandPO Box 878, Portland 3305 Phone: 5523 4690

Sale PO Box 23, Sale 3853 Phone: 5143 2255

Wangaratta1 Connell Street, Wangaratta 3677 Phone: 5722 2874

Warrnambool23 Braithwaite Street, Warrnambool 3280 Phone: 5561 2591

Regional Shelters:

The RSPCA’s objectives are to promote and enhance the wellbeing of the society and the welfare of its animals by:

Educating the Victorian community regarding the humane treatment and management of animals, and increasing public awareness of and support for animal welfare.

Enforcing the existing laws to prevent cruelty to animals.

Influencing the amendment or development of legislation and standards considered necessary for the protection and welfare of animals.

Encouraging and providing a sustainable, needs based network of animal welfare services across the state, for the care, shelter, treatment, rehabilitation, and protection of animals within the capacity and strategic directions of the organisation.

Providing relief programs to assist people within the community who are experiencing adverse circumstances, to enable them to care for or manage their animals.

AccountabilityPreparedness to be held accountable for plans, actions and outcomes.

ProfessionalismBehaviour and standards that set the benchmark for other organisations.

IntegritySoundness of judgement and honesty in everything we do.

OpennessTransparency in our actions, decisions and results to all stakeholders.

CreativityWillingness to review current operations and implement new and innovative approaches that assist in achieving our overall objectives.

VisionThat all animals, great and small, are:

Free from hunger and thirst.

Free from discomfort.

Free from pain, injury and disease.

Free to express normal behaviour.

Free from fear and distress.

Objectives Values

striving for excellence is a key element of our

organisational culture

The RSPCA’s objectives are to promote and enhance the wellbeing of the society and the welfare of its animals by:

Educating the Victorian community regarding the humane treatment and management of animals, and increasing public awareness of and support for animal welfare.

Enforcing the existing laws to prevent cruelty to animals.

Influencing the amendment or development of legislation and standards considered necessary for the protection and welfare of animals.

Encouraging and providing a sustainable, needs based network of animal welfare services across the state, for the care, shelter, treatment, rehabilitation, and protection of animals within the capacity and strategic directions of the organisation.

Providing relief programs to assist people within the community who are experiencing adverse circumstances, to enable them to care for or manage their animals.

AccountabilityPreparedness to be held accountable for plans, actions and outcomes.

ProfessionalismBehaviour and standards that set the benchmark for other organisations.

IntegritySoundness of judgement and honesty in everything we do.

OpennessTransparency in our actions, decisions and results to all stakeholders.

CreativityWillingness to review current operations and implement new and innovative approaches that assist in achieving our overall objectives.

VisionThat all animals, great and small, are:

Free from hunger and thirst.

Free from discomfort.

Free from pain, injury and disease.

Free to express normal behaviour.

Free from fear and distress.

Objectives Values

striving for excellence is a key element of our

organisational culture

president’s report

6

highlights 2006/2007

RSPCA Strategic Directions

Animal Welfare Advocacy

Influencing Public Opinion

Enhancing the 5 Freedoms for Animals

Community Presence

Income Generation

Organisational Effectiveness

Key Objective:Lobbying of local councils to introduce compulsory cat de-sexing.

Progress: The RSPCA in partnership with the Cat Crisis coalition has been successful in gaining the agreement of five local councils. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to lobby local councils in the coming year and encourage the community to be more actively involved.

Key Objective:Work with state Government to improve animal welfare outcomes.

Progress: This year the RSPCA was successful in lobbying Government to review POCCTA and increase the funding for the Inspectorate. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: The additional funding will be utilised to recruit extra resources. We will continue to work with Government to ensure the POCCTA changes requested are implemented.

Key Objective: Introduction of compulsory microchipping.

Progress: In May this year compulsory microchipping of newly registered pets was introduced. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to lobby Governments for improved animal welfare legislation.

Influencing Governments to improve the legislative framework, enforcement and funding for animal welfare programs.

Influencing Public OpinionKey Objectives:Educate farmers in regional communities about drought management.

Progress: RSPCA Inspectors and the DPI conducted drought management seminars across Victoria in late 2006. (Pg. 16-17)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to be proactive in our attempts to reduce environmental impacts on animal welfare.

Key Objective: Campaign to encourage people to ‘vote with their feet’ and stamp out rodeos.

Progress: We achieved increased media coverage for our campaign this year. Many rodeos experienced a reduction in attendance. (Pg. 16-17)

What’s Ahead: Continued campaigning to raise awareness of the cruelty issues associated with rodeos and inflict commercial pressures on organisers.

Key Objective:Education of our future animal welfare leaders and protectors.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria’s education team presented to more than 22,127 students this year, an increase of 12% on the previous year.

What’s Ahead: Our education services will continue to expand so that we can reach a broader audience and increase our impact and influence.


Develop, implement and evaluate influencing and education programs to raise the knowledge, skills and public support for animal welfare.

22,127students participated in

RSPCA education programs

successfullobbying for the introduction of compulsory microchipping

2

Key Objective:Lobbying of local councils to introduce compulsory cat de-sexing.

Progress: The RSPCA in partnership with the Cat Crisis coalition has been successful in gaining the agreement of five local councils. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to lobby local councils in the coming year and encourage the community to be more actively involved.

Key Objective:Work with state Government to improve animal welfare outcomes.

Progress: This year the RSPCA was successful in lobbying Government to review POCCTA and increase the funding for the Inspectorate. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: The additional funding will be utilised to recruit extra resources. We will continue to work with Government to ensure the POCCTA changes requested are implemented.

Key Objective: Introduction of compulsory microchipping.

Progress: In May this year compulsory microchipping of newly registered pets was introduced. (Pg. 18-19)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to lobby Governments for improved animal welfare legislation.

Influencing Governments to improve the legislative framework, enforcement and funding for animal welfare programs.

Influencing Public OpinionKey Objectives:Educate farmers in regional communities about drought management.

Progress: RSPCA Inspectors and the DPI conducted drought management seminars across Victoria in late 2006. (Pg. 16-17)

What’s Ahead: We will continue to be proactive in our attempts to reduce environmental impacts on animal welfare.

Key Objective: Campaign to encourage people to ‘vote with their feet’ and stamp out rodeos.

Progress: We achieved increased media coverage for our campaign this year. Many rodeos experienced a reduction in attendance. (Pg. 16-17)

What’s Ahead: Continued campaigning to raise awareness of the cruelty issues associated with rodeos and inflict commercial pressures on organisers.

Key Objective:Education of our future animal welfare leaders and protectors.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria’s education team presented to more than 22,127 students this year, an increase of 12% on the previous year.

What’s Ahead: Our education services will continue to expand so that we can reach a broader audience and increase our impact and influence.


Develop, implement and evaluate influencing and education programs to raise the knowledge, skills and public support for animal welfare.

22,127students participated in

RSPCA education programs

successfullobbying for the introduction of compulsory microchipping

2

Key Objective:Enhancing our animal welfare shelter facilities.

Progress:The new shelter at Portland was opened this year and the first phase of the development at Burwood East was opened in August 2007. (Pg. 20-21)

What’s Ahead: Building of adoption centre at Burwood East, new shelter facilities for Bendigo and master plan developed for Peninsula and Ballarat.

Key Objective:Involvement in community animal health programs.

Progress:This year our Inspectorate, clinic and shelter teams managed animal health programs at Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust in East Gippsland

What’s Ahead: Animal health programs will be further expanded within regional communities. (Pg. 27)

Key Objective: Respond to all animal welfare cruelty complaints and achieve best possible animal welfare outcomes.

Progress: This year our Inspectorate team responded to 12,361 complaints, an increase of 27.3% on the previous year.

What’s Ahead: The RSPCA will continue to respond to community complaints and lobby Government to enhance legislation so animal welfare outcomes can continue to be improved. (Pg. 28-31)

Key Objective: Educate and inform the broader community about the work of the RSPCA.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria was proud to be involved in the filming of RSPCA Animal Rescue which is aired on Channel 7 (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: The initial ratings for the show have been outstanding and we hope that a second series will follow.

Key Objective:Continued enhancement of RSPCA community events.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria’s events in 2006/2007 attracted record crowds and generated much needed income. Key events include Million Paws Walk and World Animal Day. (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: These events will again feature in 2008 and in addition to these we will participate in many local community events.

Key Objective:Involvement in community de-sexing programs to reduce the number of unwanted pets.

Progress:This year 671 dogs and cats have been de-sexed as part of local community de-sexing programs. (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: RSPCA Victoria will continue to promote affordable de-sexing programs to local councils and communities.

Key Objective:Develop an emergency appeal to support farmers to care for their animals during the drought.

Progress:Over $232,000 was raised and 100% of these funds were directed to 183 farming families to purchase feed for their animals. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: The framework and networks established have provided the foundations should the organisation need to develop future emergency appeals.

Key Objective:Growth of existing fundraising activities to support animal welfare services.

Progress:This year we experienced significant growth in our fundraising appeals and regional activities. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: Continued development of fundraising programs to ensure we can fund our animal welfare services. (Pg. 34-35)

Key Objective:Secure trust funding for specific animal welfare projects.

Progress:Project funding from trusts and foundations was almost double the previous year’s result. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: Trusts and foundations will continue to be an important funding source for RSPCA Victoria. (Pg. 34-35)

Key Objective: Achieve best practice corporate governance.

Progress: To build on the major corporate governance improvements, in 2006/2007 we reviewed our legal structure.

What’s Ahead: At the 2007 Annual General Meeting members will be asked to vote on changing our legal structure. (Pg. 12-13)

Key Objective: Ensure the organisation has adequate volunteer resources to support our animal welfare activities.

Progress: This year our overall volunteer team has increased by 11%, work experience by 21% and corporate volunteering has grown by 29%.

What’s Ahead: We will continue to develop and enhance our volunteer recruitment and retention strategies. (Pg. 14)

Key Objective: Develop and retain a motivated and well development workforce.

Progress: In 2006 we conducted a culture and value survey with our staff and volunteers to gage key output factors.

What’s Ahead: Focus groups are being conducted to gain further understanding and action items will be developed. (Pg. 14)

Develop, implement and evaluate integrated programs to enhance the 5 freedoms for animals.


Community Presence

Project an engaging professional image to a broad audience.

Increase and diversify the income stream.

Income Generation


Build a low cost organisation that achieves outcomes.

12,361cruelty complaints

responded to by RSPCA inspectors

new shelteropened at Portland in November 2006

11% increase in our volunteer work force

assisting all creatures

$232,000raised in drought emergency appeal

for victorian farming families

5

Key Objective:Enhancing our animal welfare shelter facilities.

Progress:The new shelter at Portland was opened this year and the first phase of the development at Burwood East was opened in August 2007. (Pg. 20-21)

What’s Ahead: Building of adoption centre at Burwood East, new shelter facilities for Bendigo and master plan developed for Peninsula and Ballarat.

Key Objective:Involvement in community animal health programs.

Progress:This year our Inspectorate, clinic and shelter teams managed animal health programs at Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust in East Gippsland

What’s Ahead: Animal health programs will be further expanded within regional communities. (Pg. 27)

Key Objective: Respond to all animal welfare cruelty complaints and achieve best possible animal welfare outcomes.

Progress: This year our Inspectorate team responded to 12,361 complaints, an increase of 27.3% on the previous year.

What’s Ahead: The RSPCA will continue to respond to community complaints and lobby Government to enhance legislation so animal welfare outcomes can continue to be improved. (Pg. 28-31)

Key Objective: Educate and inform the broader community about the work of the RSPCA.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria was proud to be involved in the filming of RSPCA Animal Rescue which is aired on Channel 7 (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: The initial ratings for the show have been outstanding and we hope that a second series will follow.

Key Objective:Continued enhancement of RSPCA community events.

Progress: RSPCA Victoria’s events in 2006/2007 attracted record crowds and generated much needed income. Key events include Million Paws Walk and World Animal Day. (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: These events will again feature in 2008 and in addition to these we will participate in many local community events.

Key Objective:Involvement in community de-sexing programs to reduce the number of unwanted pets.

Progress:This year 671 dogs and cats have been de-sexed as part of local community de-sexing programs. (Pg. 32-33)

What’s Ahead: RSPCA Victoria will continue to promote affordable de-sexing programs to local councils and communities.

Key Objective:Develop an emergency appeal to support farmers to care for their animals during the drought.

Progress:Over $232,000 was raised and 100% of these funds were directed to 183 farming families to purchase feed for their animals. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: The framework and networks established have provided the foundations should the organisation need to develop future emergency appeals.

Key Objective:Growth of existing fundraising activities to support animal welfare services.

Progress:This year we experienced significant growth in our fundraising appeals and regional activities. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: Continued development of fundraising programs to ensure we can fund our animal welfare services. (Pg. 34-35)

Key Objective:Secure trust funding for specific animal welfare projects.

Progress:Project funding from trusts and foundations was almost double the previous year’s result. (Pg. 34-35)

What’s Ahead: Trusts and foundations will continue to be an important funding source for RSPCA Victoria. (Pg. 34-35)

Key Objective: Achieve best practice corporate governance.

Progress: To build on the major corporate governance improvements, in 2006/2007 we reviewed our legal structure.

What’s Ahead: At the 2007 Annual General Meeting members will be asked to vote on changing our legal structure. (Pg. 12-13)

Key Objective: Ensure the organisation has adequate volunteer resources to support our animal welfare activities.

Progress: This year our overall volunteer team has increased by 11%, work experience by 21% and corporate volunteering has grown by 29%.

What’s Ahead: We will continue to develop and enhance our volunteer recruitment and retention strategies. (Pg. 14)

Key Objective: Develop and retain a motivated and well development workforce.

Progress: In 2006 we conducted a culture and value survey with our staff and volunteers to gage key output factors.

What’s Ahead: Focus groups are being conducted to gain further understanding and action items will be developed. (Pg. 14)

Develop, implement and evaluate integrated programs to enhance the 5 freedoms for animals.


Community Presence

Project an engaging professional image to a broad audience.

Increase and diversify the income stream.

Income Generation


Build a low cost organisation that achieves outcomes.

12,361cruelty complaints

responded to by RSPCA inspectors

new shelteropened at Portland in November 2006

11% increase in our volunteer work force

assisting all creatures

$232,000raised in drought emergency appeal

for victorian farming families

5

president’s report

6

highlights 2006/2007

RSPCA Strategic Directions


Influencing Public Opinion


Community Presence

Income Generation


The review of governance issues that has taken place over several years, with first class external advice, has now been completed. It will be recommended at the Annual General Meeting that the Society move to being an incorporated assocation to a company limited by guarantee with a new constitution. The State Council is committed to achieving best practice corporate governance, and we believe this change is another step in that process.

It is for these reasons that we will be recommending to members that RSPCA Victoria convert its legal structure to a company limited by guarantee.

The continuing drought in Victoria suddenly worsened last November and the calls for inspectorial assistance soon reached alarming proportions. State Council agreed to the immediate recruitment of three new inspectors which was made possible, in part,

by the Government grant to RSPCA Inspectorate services of $1 million per year for the next four years.

State council agreed to conduct a state-wide appeal aimed at urban Victorians to support an RSPCA drought relief appeal which was supported and administered by the Victorian Farmers’ Federation. Grants allowed many farmers in a crisis situation to obtain food for their animals for two weeks, allowing them to objectively get professional advice on how to manage their remaining stock.

The RSPCA’s formal education work has been expanded to include education programs for all sectors of the community, not just primary and secondary school students.

Stage one of the site redevelopment projects at our Burwood East site – the magnificent new dog facilities – has been

completed and was opened in early August. The new shelter at Portland was completed and work is currently in progress at Bendigo.

The new Minister for Agriculture was visited on his appointment and an outline of the RSPCA objectives and policies provided in a briefing to the Minister and his advisory staff. The Minister finds his new responsibility for animal welfare a challenging one.

In line with the RSPCA’s commitment to achieve incremental progress in the welfare of animals, the Society accepted a very wide number of invitations from Government and the private sector, both urban and rural, to join advisory committees, provide opinions, and give talks and lectures. No opportunity is ever overlooked to present an RSPCA view. The RSPCA media advocacy continues to produce excellent results.

RSPCA The State Council has had a very busy year. Through the committee system all subjects are thoroughly explored and debated, with the assistance of external experts when required, so that only well considered recommendations go forward to the Council for adoption. I sincerely thank all of my colleagues for their continued dedication to, and support, of the RSPCA.

The Chief Executive Officer, Maria Mercurio, assisted by the executive management team, heads up a large and competent staff which includes many volunteers in all departments. I congratulate the CEO on what has been achieved this past year, particularly in the area of advocacy, governance and routine operations.

The RSPCA movement represents itself through RSPCA Australia to the Australian Government and internationally. The National Council appointed a new Chief Executive Officer in November, and she has been very busy reviewing national strategic directions, governance, national office staffing levels and other issues relevant to making co-operative federalism successful for the RSPCA.

7

The past year has seen steady progress towards attaining the Society’s objectives and the implementation of RSPCA Policies.

Animal WelfareA number of important animal welfare issues have received RSPCA attention over the past year, with each issue yet to be resolved. The Society opposed the import of three Asian elephants from Thailand on the grounds that the confinement of elephants in zoos has been proven to be of great detriment to their welfare. The RSPCA pointed out that the proposed elephant fertility research could be done just as efficiently and more cost effectively in the elephant’s home range.

The live export for slaughter of sheep to the Middle East continues to dominate animal welfare debate in Australia. Sheep exported from Portland to Egypt were handled very badly on arrival and slaughtered inhumanely, despite the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Australian and Egyptian Governments. The plight of singly confined shedded sheep continues in the Western Districts. All attempts by the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC) to investigate this issue have been refused. AWAC is also investigating the obsessive-compulsive disorder of animal hoarding, its cause and solution. Finally, the RSPCA efforts to have municipalities introduce compulsory de-sexing of pet cats continues to be opposed by the veterinary profession using deliberately falsified RSPCA national statistics.

InternationalRSPCA Australia continues to be represented on the Board of the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). The philosophy of the WSPA is to utilise the strength of its member societies – now 800 in 150 countries – to aid the resolution of animal welfare problems in developing countries. The proposal to have the United Nations General Assembly adopt a Universal Declaration for the Welfare of Animals based on the sentience of animals is well on track – it is trade neutral - and is now being examined by a United Nations committee prior to being recommended to the Assembly for adoption by 2010. New WSPA regional offices have been opened in Beijing and New Delhi.

I acknowledge with pleasure and gratitude the great support given by the Patrons, Councillors, Chief Executive Officer, Executive Managers, members of the staff, volunteers throughout the State and by RSPCA members and supporters, without whom the work of the society could not have been maintained, let alone developed. It has been a busy and thoroughly rewarding year.

Hugh J Wirth AM Honorary President

Dr Hugh Wirth AM BVSc., Hon DVSc (Melb)

Former President, World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) President, RSPCA Victoria

Private Veterinary Practitioner

Director, RSPCA (VIC) Foundation Pty Ltd.

Council (Chair). Commenced on State Council: March 1969; Vice-President 1971; President since 1972

11 meetings 2006/2007: Attended 11; Apology 0

Dr Onn Ben-David BVSc

Vice-President, RSPCA Victoria

Private Veterinary Practitioner

Commenced on State Council: 18 September 1979

11 meetings 2006/2007: Attended 8; Apology 1; Leave of Absence 2

Barbara HornVice President, RSPCA Victoria

Published Author

Lifelong commitment to animal welfare

Former ABC Radio presenter


Commenced on State Council: 19 May 1986


James Smith B. Comm FCA

Treasurer, RSPCA Victoria

Practicing Chartered Accountant and Business Advisor


Commenced on State Council: 17 April 1984


Robert Carraill OAM B.Ag.Sc, Dip.Ag.Extn. FAIAST

Agricultural Scientist, experienced in farm animal production

Board Member, Greening Australia (Victoria)

Commenced on State Council: 15 March 1987

11 meetings 2006/2007: Attended 7 ; Apology 3; Leave of Absence 1

Professor Virginia StuddertBS, DVM (CALIF) Hon DVSc (Melb)

Emeritus Professor of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne

Veterinary Consultant to Industry, Government agencies and not for profit organisations

Commenced on State Council: 20 October 1992

11 meetings 2006/2007: Attended 9 ; Apology 2

rspca councillors

8

9

Dr Michael Sheedy BVSc

Private Veterinary Practitioner, 30 years experience in Wildlife Veterinarian Care

Past President, Australian Veterinary Association Victoria

Commenced on State Council: 18 May 1993


Lorraine BatesBusiness experience – Tourism and Customer Service

Inaugural Member of St Martins Club (now Champion Circle)



Dr Carole Webb BVSc (Hons), MACUSC (Feline Medicine)

Practitioner, Feline Medicine

Executive Director, Cat Protection Society



Senior Sergeant Peter GivenPolice Representative, RSPCA Council

Associate Diploma Police Studies

Commenced on State Council: 19 October 1999


Shirley WesterbergMember of Baw Baw Shire Council Tourism Advisory Board

Business experience – Tourism and Marketing

RSPCA Regional Leader - Gippsland



The Hon John D Phillips LL B (Hons)

Retired Supreme Court Judge

Commenced on State Council: 21 February 2006


General Information:RSPCA Victoria is governed by 12 State Councillors who operate in the same capacity as a Board of Directors. State Councillors volunteer their time and do not receive fees or payments for their contribution to the RSPCA. State Council, in conjunction with the Chief Executive Officer, sets RSPCA Victoria’s strategic direction and develops its policies.

In addition to attending 11 Council meetings each year, Councillors make up the majority of members of the following committees, which review and recommend changes to the policy and direction of the Society:

Budget and Finance Strategy and Corporate Policy Audit Animal Welfare Policy Marketing CEO Review

10

ceo’s report

The 2006/2007 year presented RSPCA Victoria with challenges, opportunities and some rewards. Few of the issues we faced were new, but hopefully we have made some progress in delivering innovative solutions.

Animal Welfare AdvocacyThis strategic direction helps to keep us focussed on influencing Governments at all levels, to pass and/or amend the law to achieve better animal welfare outcomes. Looking back over the year, some of our best results were achieved at the State Government level.

In the lead up to the election in October 2006, the RSPCA presented the then Government with a log of claims which included substantial amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) to give our inspectors a range of increased powers. The Act has been amended several times over the years and needs a re-write to make it more useable. We also sought a number of other changes including the translation of existing codes of practice for production animals into mandatory standards, the implementation of a code of practice for the operation of carriage horses and the keeping of guard dogs, among a longer list of our requirements. Many of our requests – most importantly amendments to the POCTAA – are in the process of being implemented, however legislative changes take time and we need to remain vigilant.

As well as legislative changes, the State Government agreed to increase funding for the Inspectorate. This was increased from $3oo,ooo per annum to $1m per annum for the next four years.

We continued to campaign strongly for compulsory de-sexing of pet cats, but have not made as much progress as we had hoped. This campaign will continue until we are satisfied that shelters will no longer need to euthanase thousands of unwanted cats year after year.

We did succeed in our lobbying for compulsory microchipping of dogs and cats and this is now required for all newly registered animals from 1st May 2007.

Strong Community PresenceRSPCA Victoria continued to increase its presence in local communities both in the metropolitan and the country areas. Education staff interacted with over 22,000 students right across Victoria. They ran community education seminars in conjunction with clinic staff and workshops for new horse owners. The inspectors also contributed to the education of the community by partnering with the Department of Primary Industries in presenting drought management seminars.

We recognised the conditions which farmers were suffering as a result of extreme drought conditions by initiating our Drought Animal Aid Appeal. We raised $232,000, every dollar of which went directly to farmers in need. A grant scheme was administered through the Victorian Farmers Federation, and supported by a number of sponsors and many, many donors.

RSPCA events during 2006/2007 were the most successful on record. Crowds at Million Paws Walk, All Creatures Day and World Animal Day celebrations continued to increase. These events are not only major fundraisers, but provide the opportunity for us to interact with literally thousands of people who hopefully go away with a heightened sense and knowledge of the RSPCA and our work.

Enhancing the Five FreedomsWe would certainly like to think that everything we do helps to achieve this strategic direction. Some of the highlights of this past year include the completion of our new shelter at Portland and the near completion of a state of the art facility at our Burwood East site. The new facilities themselves do not necessarily create good welfare outcomes, but combined with skilled staff and volunteers and sound policies, the shelters enable us to provide the best possible outcomes for the animals in our care.

The number of cats admitted to all our shelters declined over the past year. This was due to some extent to a shortened kitten season, but we still euthanased 8,216 (52.1%) cats, a number which is still far, far too high. Cat reclaim rates increased slightly as did adoption rates and the euthanasia rate declined slightly.

Dog numbers increased to a total of 17,395 which is up 7.4% on last year. Reclaim rates for dogs increased slightly, and adoption and euthanasia rates declined slightly – a mixed result. There are no clear trends but the absolute number of animals which are surrendered, abandoned and abused remains high. The new year has begun with increasing numbers of dogs entering our shelters across the state. In the upcoming year we will begin to devote more energy and resources to trying to impact on the causes of these trends in the hope that we will ultimately reduce the number of animals that come into our care.

Our inspectors responded to a huge number of cruelty complaints 12,361 during the year, which was up 27.3% from last year. The extreme drought conditions right across Victoria was one of the major reasons behind this increase.

Organisational EffectivenessBuilding an organisation that is strong and sustainable is vital to ensuring that we can continue to deliver services, advocate for reform, influence attitudes and behaviours and enforce the law. The past year has been one of emphasis on the continuing development of our staff. Our frontline supervisors and team leaders have all now progressively completed Frontline Management training delivered in conjunction with Swinburne University. The course centres on defining an organisational issue on which to work and forming project teams to deliver solutions.

Our Amsden Leadership and Management scholarship was awarded to Merewyn Smith, Fundraising Manager who completed a Leadership course at Mt Eliza Management School. Merewyn has shown herself to be one of our future leaders and her study has provided her with greater insights and learnings to strengthen an already impressive skill set. Dr Vadim Chelom, a Vet at our Burwood East clinic, was awarded the Wotherspoon Scholarship which aims to advance our veterinarian skills in a way which will enhance our ability to deliver excellent animal welfare outcomes.

And finally our organisation received a number of external awards, which helps us to benchmark our progress against standards of excellence.

Once again, I am very grateful for the enormous contributions of our staff, our volunteers, our members and supporters – and of course for the dedication and contributions of our President, Dr Wirth and our State Councillors.

Maria Mercurio CEO

11

12

During the 2006/2007 year the RSPCA Council built on the significant corporate governance work it has undertaken over the past three years.

Corporate Governance InitiativeRather than resting on its laurels, the RSPCA Victoria Council embarked on another major corporate governance project during this year, turning its focus on its legal structure.

For many decades, RSPCA Victoria’s legal structure has been that of an incorporated association under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981. If applying for this legal structure today we would no longer qualify as it is designed for smaller community based organisations. It is likely that at some time in the future we would be directed to convert to a company limited by guarantee. The RSPCA Council believes that we should address this issue pro-actively now, rather than potentially having to do this under direction at some time in the future.

The State Council is committed to achieving best practice corporate governance and believes this change is another step in that process. In rewriting the Constitution for this purpose, the Council has been able to revisit and restate its core values and modernise the Constitution to enable it to take the RSPCA Victoria into the future.

Converting the organisation’s legal structure would also increase the accountability of the organisation as a Company Limited by Guarantee falls under the Corporations Act 2001 and is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

The work towards the revised Constitution has involved Council members in many hours of workshops and consideration of issues and options. Council has sought expert legal advice along the way and has formed the view that the revised structure and Constitution will provide the very best basis for the viability of the organisation going forward.

It is for these reasons that Council will be recommending this change to members at the 2007 Annual General Meeting.

Some of the key changes proposed include:

The State Council and Office Bearers will be referred to as a Board of Directors and Officers which is more in line with community understanding of such positions.

The Board of Directors will be a minimum of seven and maximum of nine (currently there are twelve members of State Council).

Membership categories will be updated and simplified.

The rules for board appointments and removals will be updated.

The constitution will include a member’s obligation to contribute $10 in the event of a shortfall upon the unlikely event of the organisation winding up (this is a legal requirement).

Continuous Improvement in Corporate Governance In additional work the Council has continued with its development plan, involving a series of workshops for Council members on financial accountability led by an expert facilitator.

The first evaluation of Council performance was conducted by way of a self-assessment survey. The findings of this survey have been collated and these will form the basis for further improvements in process in the coming year.

Negotiations have continued with Victoria Police regarding the development of a Memorandum of Understanding between the organisations and we are hopeful that this work will be finalised shortly.

The RSPCA Victoria continued to work positively with the Ombudsman Victoria to ensure compliance with its audit requirements in respect of the Inspectorate function.

Insurance ReviewThe RSPCA Victoria undertook a comprehensive review of its insurance provision at the end of the 2006 financial year. In the first year of implementation 2006/2007, the RSPCA increased the comprehensive nature of its insurance coverage across the State, and at the same time reduced its insurance premiums. This has created great savings to the organisation and has been particularly beneficial as we joined improvements to RSPCA properties to our portfolio of coverage, with no increase in costs.

organisational effectiveness

13

External RecognitionStriving for excellence is a key element of our organisational culture. Benchmarking our performance against other organisations is one way to track our progress. It was a year of consolidation across the organisation and recognition on a number of fronts.

The RSPCA Victoria was a bronze finalist in the 2006 Excellence in Nonprofit Board Governance Award, which was awarded at the Building Better Boards Conference in Sydney on the 28th October 2006. A wide range of bodies competed for this national award, from local community management groups, to professional and trade associations, national charities and federated organisations. The award acknowledged the work undertaken by the RSPCA Council in developing its Charter, Code of Conduct, Conflict of Interest Register, Council Development Program and Risk Management Framework.

We were the 2006 winners of the Austrailan Human Resources Institute Business Excellence Award for People Management in both Victoria and then nationally. These awards recognised the development and implementation of our strategic directions and the progress we have made in achieving a low cost, efficient organisation striving for excellent animal welfare outcomes.

Our CEO was the recipient of the Commonwealth Equal Opportunity for Women Award for the Leading CEO for the Advancement of Women. The prestige of the award is highlighted by the fact that she was the first woman to receive the award, and the first CEO from a not for profit organisation. Previous winners hailed from large organsiations such as McDonalds, IBM and Ernst & Young.

And finally, the RSPCA was recognised by the City of Whitehorse with a Business Sustainability Award for the environmentally and financially sustainable new shelter in Burwood East, which was opened in August 2007.

Information SystemsSystems development is critical to the RSPCA Victoria striving for a lower cost, efficient organisation. During the year our technical infrastructure was upgraded and we brought a number of our regional shelters and inspector offices online. Email and internet connections are important communication tools for our staff and allow us to provide improved and more responsive service to our inspectors, shelter staff and clients.

Our Burwood East shelter has now implemented Shelter Mate, a software package developed by RSPCA Queensland, which creates databases of animals and people. This gives us greatly enhanced record keeping and far more effective access to information critical to shelter customers and staff. We continued the implementation of our new finance system, implemented a new payroll system and began work on a Human Resources system.

the RSPCA state council

is committed to achieving best practice corporate governance

14

During 2006/2007 we reflected on the progress that has been made under the 2004–2007 strategic directions and we continued to focus on further developing the skills and capabilities of our workforce, to contribute to improved animal welfare outcomes.

Reflection and EvaluationThe RSPCA Culture and Values Survey was conducted in December 2006 – January 2007. 176 staff and volunteers participated in the survey. The survey was designed to evaluate four key output factors; work rate, motivation, intentions to stay and attendance. In order to obtain a more detailed understanding of the survey results, focus groups are being conducted and action items will be developed to address key areas for improvement.

Amsden Leadership and Management ScholarshipThe Amsden Leadership and Management Scholarship was established in 2005 through the generosity of one of our benefactors. This scholarship recognises the need for highly developed management and leadership skills at RSPCA Victoria, to ensure that staff are able to continue to deliver enhanced animal welfare outcomes.

The 2006 recipient of this scholarship was Merewyn Smith, Fundraising Manager at RSPCA Victoria. The leadership course that she completed has assisted Merewyn with further development of her leadership and management skills and has increased her confidence in her leadership abilities.

Wotherspoon ScholarshipThe Wotherspoon Scholarship was made possible through a generous bequest to RSPCA Victoria. The aim of this scholarship is to promote veterinary opportunities in the RSPCA and to develop the skills of veterinarians in an area of practice that benefits animal welfare and contributes to the recognition of shelter medicine in Australia.

The 2007 recipient of this scholarship was Vadim Chelom, Veterinarian at the Burwood East Veterinary Clinic. Vadim undertook post-graduate study in an internationally recognised course in acupuncture, through the Australian Veterinary Acupuncture Association (AVAA).

Staff DevelopmentOur new ‘People for all Creatures’ induction program, was developed and implemented to improve the knowledge that new employees gain and to enhance their first experiences at RSPCA Victoria.

We continued to develop the skills and knowledge of our staff through further training. To summarise;

Communicatons training delivered to 17 members of the Inspectorate and regional shelter supervisors.

Animal Welfare training was delivered to 116 people, by the Animal Welfare Science Centre, Department of Primary Industries.

First Aid training was provided to 48 staff across the Burwood East and Pearcedale sites.

Five day accredited Health and Safety Representative training was completed.

26 Line Managers participated in Frontline Management training.

We worked with Swinburne University to develop a nationally accredited training course, Certificate IV in Animal Control and Regulation. This will be piloted internally in 2007, with a view to RSPCA staff delivering this course to participants both internal and external to the RSPCA in the future. We also engaged a volunteer Psychologist to create a training course on Managing Psychological Health, in recognition of the nature of the work we do and the environment in which we work. The course incorporates Stress Management, Grief and Loss and Compassion Fatigue, and it will be delivered to all staff in 2007.

Occupational Health and SafetyImprovements in OH&S continued to be made in 2006/2007, resulting in a further reduction in our Workcover premium. The RSPCA Peninsula Health and Safety Committee was expanded to ensure representation across all departments at the site and the committee achieved many OH&S improvements during the year. A new Peninsula Emergency Response Group has been formed and is implementing an Emergency Management System. At Burwood East, the Health and Safety Committee continued its great work in driving OH&S improvements and the committee has now been re-elected with a new chairperson to be appointed in August 2007.

developing our people

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The volunteer program has grown considerably in the last year, particularly in the areas of skilled volunteers, corporate volunteers and work experience students. Numbers of regional volunteers continue to be steady with continued support for the shelters, opportunity shops and regional leadership roles. The total number of volunteers for the RSPCA Victoria for 2006/2007 is 1,503, an 11% increase on last year.

Volunteers are being involved in new ways at Burwood East, especially in skilled roles such as Human Resources, Education, Finance and in the Inspectorate. These roles provide new opportunities for existing volunteers as well as bringing in new volunteers with the appropriate skills.

Our corporate volunteer program continues to draw considerable interest from our corporate partners. The total number of

corporate volunteers for 2006/2007 is 344, an increase of 29%. With growing interest from existing and new partners, this number is set to grow in the new financial year. New partners include Refund Home Loans, Mallesons Stephen Jacques, Australian Unity General Insurance, and Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia.

The work experience program continues to be well supported by secondary and tertiary students. This year 143 students participated in the program, a 21% increase on last year’s figures. Of specific interest is the new relationship with Box Hill Tafe. At the commencement of 2007, students who are undertaking Certificate III in Companion Animal Services now do their industry placements at our Burwood East shelter.

SUPPORT SERVICES: Bronwyn McIntyre, Peter Blanker, George Nicholson, Chris McIntosh

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Phil Armato, Brooke Disney, Ray Lord, Penny Aquino, Andrew Pitman, Merewyn Smith

ANIMAL WELFARE: Fiona Hunt, Stuart Edwards, Andrew Foran, Allan Synnott, Chris Thurgood, Greg Boland

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM: Maria Mercurio, Jo Lindley, Jo Benvenuti, Greg O'Brien, Jenny Davis

Volunteer Resources

influencing public opinion

In 2006/2007 the RSPCA has continued to inform, educate and raise awareness of animal welfare issues in our community.

A broad range of tools have been developed and implemented to ensure that our animal welfare message is communicated to the community at large. The RSPCA website, our newsletter, media campaigns and community education programs are just some of the activities that help us to achieve this objective.

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sustainable improvement

to achieve sustainable improvement in animal welfare it is vital that the RSPCA increase the knowledge and skills of the

community in the care and treatment of animals

To achieve sustainable improvement in animal welfare, it is vital that the RSPCA increase the knowledge and skills of the community in the care and treatment of animals and raise public support for animal welfare. This year we have conducted many awarness campaigns including:

Dairy Welfare.

Fair Go For Farm Animals – Targetting Sow Stalls, Live Exports and Batttery Hens.

Wild Dog Trapping.

Compulsory De-sexing of Cats.

Animal Cruelty and its Relationship with Human Violence.

Regional visits in March this year focussed on central Gippsland where Education Officers visited schools in Yarragon, Sale, Moe, Traralgon and Warragul. These visits were in response to supporting RSPCA initiatives in the region to promote microchipping and de-sexing of pets. In the last 12 months education staff have visited over 60 schools across regional Victoria including Sunraysia, Bendigo and Ballarat regions as well as western and northern Victoria.

Vote with your Feet – Stamp out RodeosThe RSPCA is opposed to rodeo events as they have the potential for cruelty and subject animals to great stress, all in the name of entertainment.

This year RSPCA Victoria continued its campaign to have rodeos banned. RSPCA inspectors attended a number of rodeos in regional Victoria and also a large rodeo event in Melbourne. This was a pro-active action to ensure compliance with rodeo permits issued by the Department of Primary Industries.

We advertised in regional and metropolitan newspapers when rodeo events where being conducted to raise awareness of the animal welfare issues. The advertisements encouraged people to ‘vote with their feet’ and boycott these events. From our tracking of attendance figures, we know that we have made an impact and will continue to lobby both publicly and with government to have this cruel so called sport banned.

Drought Management SeminarsDrought Management Seminars were held across Victoria in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries. These seminars were aimed at horse owners and hobby farmers and were designed to provide information on how to best manage animals during drought conditions. These seminars were held in Pakenham, Whittlesea, Melton and Geelong. The seminars, lead by RSPCA Inspectors, were well attended and received a good community response.

The RSPCA believes that farm animals must be treated in a way which meets their physical, physiological and psychological needs. Farm animals must not only be provided with appropriate food, shelter and veterinary care, they must have the freedom to express normal behaviours and be kept in an environment which avoids suffering. The RSPCA therefore opposes many common practices in farming and animal husbandry because it believes that such practices do not meet the animal’s needs.

The RSPCA believes that it is vital that consumers are made aware of such practices and most importantly, are provided with welfare-friendly alternatives. Creating a demand for welfare-friendly products provides an incentive to producers to adopt humane farming practices.

Community Education Programs The past 12 months have seen an evolution in the development and delivery of animal welfare education from RSPCA Victoria. The schools programs in both primary and secondary areas are now well established after three to four years of development and set the foundation for expanding our programs and impact into other areas of the community. The Paw Prints Holiday Programs have been an on-going success expanding to two sites; RSPCA Burwood East and at the RSPCA Peninsula Shelter at Pearcedale. Overall, for the 2006/2007 period, our education staff engaged 22,127 individuals, which is a 12% increase from the previous financial year.

An example of our community impact is our ‘You and Your New Horse Seminar’, addressing the issues of horse husbandry and welfare, which this year has significant relevance because of the drought. As an outcome of our community seminars, the RSPCA was successful in attracting the internationally famous ‘Horse Whisperer’, Monty Roberts, to present a seminar in the Education Centre in late 2006. Community seminars are also being offered by our clinic staff on Wednesday evenings and every second weekend at the Education Centre.

Education staff are also involved in the development and implementation of the newly formed Victorian Schools Animal Ethics Committee. This committee will oversee the use of animals for teaching purposes in schools throughout Victoria.

The ‘Breaking the Cycle of Violence’ program conducted in conjunction with presenters from Empathy Education and Training at our Pearcedale site continues to grow. This program provides animal assisted activities and animal assisted therapy for young people who have been subjected to violence and abuse. The program aims to give them a better capacity to grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults capable of experiencing lasting and supportive relationships with their pets and with other people.

Continued funding from the Bureau of Animal Welfare was used to develop a program for students completing the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) titled ‘Working with Animals’. In 2007 a second program focussing on the RSPCA as a non-government funded community based charity and including discussions on current animal welfare issues is also being developed to complement the first program that had more of a careers focus.

In September 2006, our education staff spent a week visiting schools in the Mildura region where sessions were conducted on responsible animal care. The last 12 months have also seen Education expand their regional impact and presence, by liaising with RSPCA Regional Shelter Managers to support the development of presentations, distributing information or organising an education officer to visit the region.

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Animal Welfare Awareness Campaigns

Animal Welfare Friendly Accreditation Programs

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Compulsory De-sexingThe RSPCA continues to campaign strongly for the Government to implement compulsory de-sexing of cats. Every year animal shelters in Victoria are forced to euthanase 38,000 healthy cats for whom we unable to find homes. In spite of numerous responsible pet ownership education programs, de-sexing voucher schemes and differential registration charges, the number of cats euthanased increases every year. This cat overpopulation issue is not just an issue for animal shelters, it is an issue of community responsibility. The financial cost to society of managing excess cats (running shelters, euthanasia, stress on shelter workers, cat trapping exercises and answering complaint calls) far exceeds the cost of compulsory de-sexing. Currently Councils are in the position to require compulsory de-sexing in their municipality.

As a member of the Cat Crisis Coalition (a consortium of six of the States largest animal shelter organisations) the Society has contributed to a pledge of $30,000 that will be shared among the first 12 local Government areas to implement mandatory de-sexing. This means that the Cat Crises Coalition will heavily subsidise residents de-sexing their cat in municipalities that have compulsory de-sexing.

Duck Shooting. It’s Just Not Sport.The RSPCA has continued the campaign to have duck shooting banned in Victoria. Duck shooting is not humane. Thousands of ducks receive horrific injuries every year during the hunting season and hundreds of thousands are killed. The RSPCA opposes the recreational hunting of ducks because of the high level of cruelty involved. The RSPCA has distributed media kits, posters and postcards to encourage community support to ban the sport.

Duck hunting is banned in public areas in ACT, NSW, WA and SA. The RSPCA will continue to lobby the Victorian Government to follow the lead of other states in banning duck hunting.

Increased FundingThe RSPCA Victoria has continued to lobby the State Government to increase its funding of the Inspectorate services provided by our organisation. The Government made a commitment as part of the election campaign in 2006 to provide one million dollars annually over the next fours years. Government funding in 2007/2008 will now be 4% of our total overall income which is timely with the increased costs due to escalating complaints of animal cruelty. This year complaints rose by 27.3% on the previous year’s results.

Intensive Shedding Of SheepThe RSPCA has made submissions to the Victorian Government to ban the single penning of sheep to produce ultra fine wool. The Society believes that this practice is inhumane and does not allow sheep to display even basic natural behaviours. For the intensive shedding of sheep for ultra fine wool production to be acceptable from an RSPCA perspective, the following minimum welfare requirements would need to be met:

1. Sheep must be maintained in group housing with sufficient space to allow movement as a mob.

2. Sheep must be provided with sufficient food to maintain normal duration of grazing (minimum five hours a day) and provided with sufficient roughage to enable rumination.

3. Sheep must be kept in appropriately designed sheds in which temperature can be regulated.

4. Sheep must be maintained at a minimum condition score of 2.5.

5. Sheep must be protected by a mandatory Welfare Code of Practice that is written for the industry.

Review of POCTAADuring the State Government election campaign of 2006, the RSPCA put forward a number of issues, which we believed needed to be addressed by whichever party was elected to Government. The majority of the RSPCA’s requests for change were subsequently incorporated into the Labour Party’s Animal Welfare Policy Platform and after the election became Government Policy.

Our recommendations centred largely on amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA), mainly around:

Increased penalties for convicted perpetrators of cruelty.

Increased powers for Inspectors to enter commercial premises to undertake routine inspections.

The strengthening of animal codes including making them mandatory rather than voluntary.

Enhanced powers of seizure of animals by Inspectors as well as powers of entry.

A number of other improvements were also put forward. The review of the legislation incorporating the majority of the RSPCA recommendations is underway and the Department of Primary Industries has foreshadowed the redrafting of the Act for presentation to the State Parliament during the 2007/2008 year.

animal welfare advocacy

19

Campaigns for 2007/2008The RSPCA will continue to campaign on a state and a national level to improve animal welfare legislation.

Key campaigns for 2007/2008 will include:

Dairy Industry Welfare.

Animal Transportation Standards.

Sow Stalls.

Banning of Duck Shooting.

Compulsory Cat De-sexing.

Accreditation Programs for Production Systems.

RSPCA Victoria made submissions on the following proposed legislation and codes of practice:

Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals – the Pig.

Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Domestic Fowl) Regulations 2006.

Code of Practice for the Captive Husbandry of Emus (Victoria) Revision 1.

Code of Accepted Farming Practice for the Welfare of Sheep (Victoria) Revision 2.

Amendment to POCTAA Regulations.

Proposed Legislation for an Animal Care Bill.

Code of Practice for the Public Display and Exhibition of Animals 2006.

Code of Practice for the Welfare of Circus Animals.

Draft Code of Practice for the Private Keeping of Dogs.

Draft Code of Practice for the Private Keeping of Cats.

Victorian Animal Welfare CommitteesAs part of our commitment to gain animal welfare legislative improvements, in 2006/2007 RSPCA Victoria participated in numerous committees that reviewed legislation, codes of practice and made recommendations on improvements. These committees were:

POCTAA Committee.

Animal Welfare Science Centre Advisory Committee.

Australian Meat Industry Council Welfare Quality Assurance for Processing Reference Group.

Consistent Animal Welfare Requirements for Livestock.

Shelter and Pound Code of Practice Review Working Group.

Cat Crisis Coalition.

Live Weight Selling of Cattle Working Group.

Melbourne Grey-headed Flying Fox Working Group.

Reference Group for Welfare Standards for Transporters of Livestock.

Jumps Racing Review Committee.

Greyhound Responsible Breeding Task Force.

Aquatic Welfare Working Group.

BAW Restricted Breed Panel Membership.

Dairy Welfare Management Group.

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC).

Monash University Animal Welfare Committee.

Six AWAC Working Groups.

Memorandum of Understanding with DPI Committee.

25 Category C Members on 23 Animal Ethics Committees Across Victoria.

Animal Welfare Science Centre Dog Behavioural Project Managing Group.

cat overpopulation is not just an issue for animal shelters,

it is an issue of community responsibility

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Regional Site Development2007 saw the opening of the first of our newly designed regional shelters. The Portland shelter was moved to a new site during the year and the new facility was opened in November 2006 by Dr Hugh Wirth, Ms Maria Mercurio and the Honorable Bob Cameron MP.

The new Portland shelter is the first of our relocatable shelter buildings to be deployed. This design incorporates a new ‘look and feel’ for our customers and is designed in a modular format. The design allows for parts of the building to be exchanged with similar buildings at other locations in the state as our needs change over time.

The Portland site now incorporates exercise yards, a walking track and other facilities for ensuring good animal welfare outcomes.

The Bendigo shelter has also had a new cat quarantine constructed during 2007 using our relocatable modular design. This facility will be on site at Bendigo during the first quarter of the new financial year.

Responding to a number of horse seizures by the Inspectorate during the year, there has been an upgrade of the paddocks and fencing at our Pearcedale site to improve our stock handling capabilities.

Our Castlemaine op shop received a major facelift during the year with new storage and sorting rooms added, improvements to the layout of the interior of the store and a new access ramp added to the front of the building.

There will be continuing work on the regional shelters in the coming year with more work expected to be completed as well as further upgrading of the Bendigo shelter and a new shelter planned for Whittlesea. There will also be master plans completed for other major regional sites as we continue to enhance our regional facilities.

Burwood East Site DevelopmentConstruction of the striking new kennel facility at Burwood East was undertaken during 2006/2007. This state of the art new facility will represent the pinnacle of animal welfare facilities for decades to come. The fully enclosed, two storey, indoor facility contains 200 kennels and will provide high level animal welfare standards for the dogs in our care.

The design incorporates:

A temperature controlled environment including passive air-conditioning and hydronic heating for each kennel.

A bright and stimulating outlook for the animals.

Noise and odour control inside and outside the buildings.

Up-to-date operational design with the occupational health and safety of staff included in all facets of the building.

The kennels incorporate the latest environmentally sustainable design including:

Non-mechanical passive air-conditioning.

Recycling of wash down water and on site recycling of grey and black water in the next stage of development.

Orientation of the buildings to the north to allow the use of natural sunlight for lighting and warmth.

The facility has already won its first award with the RSPCA Victoria picking up the Sustainable Business Award in the City of Whitehorse’s Sustainability Awards 2006.

The kennels were designed by Barbara Bamford of NH Architecture after a detailed planning process including a review of similar facilities elsewhere in the world. A number of specialists had input to the design especially environmental design experts and animal behaviour experts. The construction of the kennels was completed by SJ Higgins and was project managed by Burns Bridge.

The kennels are housed in five ‘pods’, with a courtyard garden between each one. The courtyards feature arresting landscaping designs that are reflective of four of the six generic dog coats. The designs featured merle, piebald, tricolour and brindle.

The opening of these Kennels represents the completion of the first phase of the site development master plan for Burwood East. It is expected that the next phase, incorporating new adoption facilities for our shelter animals, will be undertaken in the coming financial year.

shelter facility development

21

state of the art this new shelter represents the

pinnacle of animal welfare facilities

22

enhancing the 5 freedoms for

animalsEach year the 11 shelters across the state aim to improve the outcomes for admitted animals through community education, operational improvement and working in partnership with local communities, media and local Governments.

This year saw a reduction in cat admissions, particularly in the regional areas, and shelters reported a shorter kitten season. While this may have been related to the effects of the drought or the particularly high temperatures over summer, it is hoped that it is an indication of a longer term change in community attitudes. There is certainly an increased awareness of the need to register animals and the benefits of microchipping has seen the overall reclaim rate improve slightly for both dogs and cats across the state. The regional shelters particularly, have seen a steady increase in the reclaim of dogs over the past four years. It is hoped that the recently introduced requirement to microchip dogs and cats when registered for the first time will mean that the rate will continue to improve next year. The RSPCA is also optimistic that with more local Governments introducing mandatory de-sexing of cats, the reduction in cat admissions will continue.

Ambulance ServiceRSPCA Victoria continues to operate its animal ambulance service in the metropolitan area. This service has a long RSPCA history, as it was one of the first services the organisation provided to the community. We are grateful that the ANZ bank has continued to sponsor this service for the third consecutive year. In 2006/2007 our two ambulances collected 2,222 animals – a significant increase on the previous year.

Ambulance Statistics 2006/2007

Serving the CommunityAll Victorian shelters are now featuring the dogs and cats that are available for adoption on the RSPCA website. Regional shelters are reporting that clients are travelling from metropolitan areas and other regional locations to meet animals that they have seen on the website.

After the success of the trial of Twilight Adoptions at Burwood East last year, the program was extended this year to the Mornington Peninsula (Pearcedale) shelter. The initiative saw opening hours extended until 7.30pm on two nights a week at both shelters for the entire daylight savings period from November to March. Increased patronage at these times has encouraged us to continue Twilight Adoptions in 2007/2008.

Throughout the year at the Burwood East Animal Welfare Centre, shelter customer service staff managed 19,000 enquiries and transactions at the counter and received nearly 150,000 phone calls. The Veterinary customer service staff managed in excess of 44,000 appointments and transactions at the counter and received more than 50,000 phone calls for assistance. The centre was open 365 days of the year and also provided an out of hours service for the transport of animals needing critical attention.

shelters

Dogs 14%

Others 20%

After Hours 16%

Cats 11%

Wildlife/Possums 39%

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35,173 animalscared for in RSPCA’s eleven shelters

across Victoria in 2006/2007

24


animalsshelters

Statistics – RSPCA Shelters 2006/2007Burwood Ballarat Bendigo Castlemaine Echuca Portland

% % % % % %

Dogs Admitted 6,449 1,850 2,317 348 1,031 550

Reclaimed 2,988 46.3 858 46.4 1,250 53.9 124 35.6 325 31.5 196 35.6

Adopted 1,903 29.5 466 25.2 552 23.8 108 31.0 323 31.3 155 28.2

Euthanased 1,176 18.2 393 21.2 320 13.8 45 12.9 276 26.8 178 32.4

Cats Admitted 5,267 1,521 1,582 326 755 386

Reclaimed 266 5.1 66 4.3 101 6.4 5 1.5 24 3.2 37 9.6

Adopted 2,355 44.7 266 17.5 345 21.8 109 33.4 177 23.4 164 42.5

Euthanased 1,974 37.5 1,123 73.8 986 62.3 149 45.7 383 50.7 170 44.0

Other Admissions 3,134 39 28 86 6 1

Wildlife 2,318 74.0 19 48.7 6 21.4 34 39.5 0 0.0 0 0.0

Other Non Domestic 816 26.0 20 51.3 22 78.6 52 60.5 6 100.0 1 100.0

Total 14,850 3,410 3,927 760 1,792 937

Peninsula Sale Wangaratta Warrnambool Total 2006/2007 Total 2005/2006

% % % % % %

Dogs Admitted 3,184 176 799 691 17,395 16,111

Reclaimed 1,330 41.8 1 0.6 318 39.8 389 56.3 7,779 44.7 6,991 43.4

Adopted 759 23.8 103 58.5 192 24.0 166 24.0 4,727 27.2 4,611 28.6

Euthanased 1,046 32.9 33 18.8 272 34.0 181 26.2 3,920 22.5 4,022 25.0

Cats Admitted 2,872 170 574 536 13,989 15,783

Reclaimed 191 6.7 0 0 35 6.1 17 3.2 742 5.3 714 4.5

Adopted 1,027 35.8 109 64.1 163 28.4 199 37.1 4,914 35.1 5,645 35.8

Euthanased 1,623 56.5 34 20.0 325 56.6 284 53.0 7,051 50.4 8,216 52.1

Other Admissions 389 0 85 21 3,789 4,533

Wildlife 166 42.7 0 0 37 43.5 2 9.5 2,582 68.1 3,566 78.7

Other Non Domestic 223 57.3 0 0 48 56.5 19 90.5 1,207 31.9 967 21.3

Total 6,445 346 1,458 1,248 35,173 36,427

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Large Seizures of AnimalsSeizure of large numbers of animals as part of individual cases added a new dimension to our Inspectorate work this past year and created challenges for our animal shelters which had to accommodate them.

In August 2006, more than 70 greyhounds were seized by the Inspectorate after they were abandoned on several properties across Victoria. While a number were able to be returned to their original owners, 54 of the dogs were sheltered at Burwood East. Shelter and clinic staff and volunteers coordinated veterinary care and rehabilitation for a number of the dogs who were emaciated or had minor injuries. The RSPCA worked very closely with the Greyhound Adoption Program, and both organisations conducted testing regimes that included health and temperament testing. In a pleasing result the majority of the dogs were able to be de-sexed ready for adoption and were placed in new homes.

The sheltering of a large seizure of cock fighting roosters required our staff and volunteers to demonstrate some advanced poultry handling skills. As they are bred and trained for fighting, the birds were extremely difficult to handle and caused some frustration for staff.

The shelters are currently caring for horses that have been seized from a number of different owners. The provision of fencing and other infrastructure, and the coordination of ongoing veterinary and farrier treatment has provided quite a logistical challenge. The twice daily feeding and cleaning regime for 35 horses has required several staff to be allocated full-time to their care. The condition of the horses improved very quickly in our care, and all are now healthy and happy. We look forward to the resolution of the cases through the courts.

Local Government PartnershipsLocal Governments are responsible for enforcing legislation, education on responsible pet ownership and providing the means of managing stray animals, which includes impounding.

The RSPCA provides various animal management services under contract to a number of councils across the state. Importantly, if animals are not reclaimed and are suitable for rehoming, the RSPCA prepares the animals for sale.

From the Burwood East shelter we manage the pound for the six metropolitan councils of Monash, Hobsons Bay, Whitehorse, Glen Eira, Port Phillip and Whittlesea. The Pearcedale shelter has contracts with the Cities of Casey and the Mornington Shire. Regional shelters manage pound services for the Portland, Warrnambool, Ballarat, Castlemaine, Bendigo, Echuca and Wangaratta Councils.

The RSPCA in association with several of our contracted councils provided the public with affordable microchipping giving owners an extra opportunity to be reunited with their pet should it become lost. This along with registration is the best chance you have of finding a lost or strayed pet.

The regional affordable de-sexing scheme introduced in 2004 has to date assisted many pet owners by de-sexing in excess of 1,500 dogs and cats in regional areas. This represents a reduction of tens of thousands of unwanted offspring in country Victoria in a little over 12 months.


animalsThe provision of veterinary services to the RSPCA is one of the RSPCA’s larger single costs. These services are required in the operation of the shelter network across the state of Victoria and in the support of the Inspectorate.

This requires the examination of animals brought to our shelters as stray or surrendered animals, the provision of immediate veterinary care where required, the vaccination of animals, the adoption assessment of all animals and the de-sexing of animals prior to re-homing. At our regional shelters contract veterinarians provide these services. We have established close relationships with these clinics and have developed a uniform contract with all participants.

The RSPCA operates veterinary clinics at our two largest shelters, these being Burwood East and Pearcedale. These clinics provide the veterinary coverage of these shelters but also provide a private veterinary service available to the general public. With the development of these clinics and the support of the general public, we are able to provide veterinary coverage of the shelters in a more ‘cost effective’ manner. We truly value this community support as it enables the RSPCA to develop clinics of excellence available to both the general public and shelter animals alike.

The development of clinic facilities is often assisted by the generous donation of equipment from the general public and the public health system. During the year we have been provided with four complete ‘bear hugger’ units that assist in maintaining patient temperature during surgical procedures. We have also been donated several autoclaves, which was most timely due to the existing autoclave becoming inoperable. We had previously been donated an ultrasound machine which is now being fully utilised with the employment of a veterinarian with extensive training as an ultrasonographer. The clinic has also received a donated surgical microscope, which will further develop the clinic facilities and services.

26

veterinary care

more than 32,000

animals have been treated by RSPCA vets this year

Throughout this year we have expanded the clinic activity in the area of animal behaviour. This has been in response to an increasing incidence of behavioural issues in surrendered animals, and the failure of approximately 5% of animals to be successfully rehomed and subsequently returned to the RSPCA. As part of this development we have provided a broad range of client information sessions to assist owners in the early detection and intervention of behavioural problems. It is intended that this will be a growth area in clinic activity over the next year.

The increased expertise in animal behaviour has assisted in the development of a new dog adoption assessment, which was introduced this year. This assessment provides greater information on the behavioural characteristics of dogs and hence assists in matching owners with animal’s needs.

Community Animal Health ProgramsThe RSPCA has embarked on the development and implementation of animal health programs for isolated Aboriginal communities in Victoria.

The work in Aboriginal communities being done by the RSPCA in 2006/2007 began with a call from an Aboriginal community located about 30km east of Lakes Entrance in East Gippsland. The community, known as ‘Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust’ (LTAT), contacted the regional RSPCA Inspector for assistance with a specific animal welfare issue.

The Inspector identified a need in this community for some assistance with many animal welfare and management issues.

He had discussions with LTAT staff and community leaders, RSPCA NSW, AMRRIC (NT based dog health program facilitator), local government and local vets. This led to RSPCA (Victoria) agreeing to develop and implement the first phase of what will hopefully be a long-term sustainable animal health program for this community, which we intend will be owned, financed and run ultimately by the community. If successful, it is hoped that other indigenous communities in Victoria will benefit from our experience at LTAT.

The first phase of the LTAT Animal Health Program was put into action in May 2007 with the first on-site two day veterinary clinic. The clinic was led by our own RSPCA Chief Veterinarian and a team of support staff. Over the two days the RSPCA team were presented with 61 dogs and 8 cats, from 60% of LTAT households. These animals were vaccinated, wormed, treated for fleas and mites, given a general health check, microchipped and registered with East Gippsland Shire Council who had officers on site to assist RSPCA staff and process registrations. Feedback from all stakeholders was extremely positive.

Planning and development of further elements of the LTAT Animal Health Program continues. Program elements are not only attempting to service immediate animal welfare needs in the community, but are aimed at building capacity in the community to provide affordable and sustainable animal health and management services under its own steam for the long term.

In 12 months time we hope to report that we have a fully funded program in place at Lake Tyers and news from other communities who are seeing the benefits from this initiative.

Burwood EastShelter Clinic Activities 2006/2007 2005/2006

Adult De-sexing 2,033 1,810

Early Aged De-sexing 1,942 2,353

Surgical Procedures 1,701 2,035

Consultations 1,027 1,059

Private Clinic Activities 2006/2007 2005/2006

Adult De-sexing 639 573

Early Aged De-sexing 977 971

Surgical Procedures 2,269 2,253

Private Consultations 14,738 14,275

PearcedaleShelter Clinic Activities 2006/2007 2005/2006

De-sexing 1,528 2,165

Surgery 125 30

Consultations 262 292

Private Clinic Activities 2006/2007 2005/2006

De-sexing 869 978

Surgery 292 126

Private Consultations 4,093 5,131

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Animal Behavioural Services

inspectorate

28

The Inspectorate faced many challenges in the past year as the effects of the worst drought Victoria has experienced in 100 years were realised.

The impact on the Inspectorate’s caseload and animal welfare was significant. Inspectors saw complaint numbers skyrocket as summer approached. The greatest proportion of this caseload increase involved horses, cattle and sheep complaints. A number of hobby farmers and horse owners found themselves in dire situations. Despite pro-active attempts by the RSPCA and the DPI to provide information and education to these groups in regard to establishing drought management plans, many kept animals that they simply were unable to care for as feed became hard to come by and expensive when available. Some cases that the RSPCA attended involved owners who have additional problems such as mental health issues, disabilities and hardship income issues.

To manage the additional workload, the RSPCA has employed three new Inspectors on a two year contract. The new Inspectors will act as support positions that are able to travel throughout the state to provide extra assistance in the areas of greatest need. This takes the total number of Inspectors in the field to 17.

27.3%increase in animal cruelty complaints

29

Cruelty ComplaintsThe toll associated with the unprecedented drought conditions of 2006/2007 could be seen in cruelty complaint figures. The lack of rain hit struggling farmers hard. As paddocks became bare and dams dried up, the body condition of livestock and horses dropped very quickly. As the year continued, the extent of the drought and devastation that it brought became all too evident with an increase of over 78% in complaints about livestock and more than a 63% increase in complaints relating to horses.

Complaints relating to cruelty increased from 9,714 cases to 12,361 cases for 2006/2007. This equates to a 27.3% increase in cruelty cases. The most common complaints related to:

Dogs – up by 8.4% Horses – up by 63.9% Livestock – up by 78.5% Cats – up by 11.0% Birds and Poultry – up by 34.7%

The number of complaints received in metropolitan areas was higher than those received for any one of the country areas despite the drought. However, a large majority of these complaints were in fringe areas such as Melton, Sunbury, Yarra Glen and Pakenham.

Overall, 52% of the complaints were for country areas and 48% for metropolitan, which differs from last year where 54% of complaints were metropolitan based.

Complaints by RegionGrampians and Sunraysia 15%

Mallee and Goldfields 8%

Wangaratta and Northern 6%

Gippsland and Peninsula 13%

Western Districts 10%

Meltropolitan and Outer 48%

Cruelty Complaints 2005/2006 2006/2007

Abbatoirs 5 2

Agistment 0 1

Aquariums 4 1

Breeders 4 10

Camels 2 1

Cats 959 1,064

Deer 21 26

Dogs 4,374 4,742

Domestic Pets (other) 93 101

Emus Ostriches 6 0

Fish 40 81

Foxes 12 29

Feedlots 4 2

Horses 1,485 2,434

Kangaroos 41 73

Koalas 0 8

Kennels 2 11

Livestock 1,080 1,928

Markets 13 19

Pet Shops 230 277

Possums 171 201

Poultry/Birds 594 800

Riding Schools 1 3

Rodeos 4 2

Saleyards 19 6

Seals 7 16

Traps/Poisoning 45 35

Transport 7 2

Wombats 4 3

Zoos/Wildlife and Reptile Parks 7 9

Other 480 474

9,714 12,361

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Animal HoardingA number of the difficult cases that the Inspectors deal with involve people that are considered to be animal hoarders. These people often collect animals without the financial and physical ability or the knowledge to be able to adequately care for the animals they take on. They may have obtained the animals originally for truly ultruistic reasons and then become impervious to the animals suffering. A case that the Inspectorate has been involved in for many months from the High Country area, involved a person who ‘saved’ a number of horses by purchasing them from saleyards. The horses were in the majority unbroken, some had never been handled, they were in poor condition and worm laden.

The new owner had limited financial resources, little knowledge of the husbandry needed to adequately care for them and did not have the appropriate paddocks to accommodate the horses.

The Inspectorate became involved and attempted to work intensely with the owner to ensure a beneficial welfare outcome for the

horses. After many months and countless hours of attempting to work with the owner, the Inspector was placed in

the position where there was no option but to seize the horses. The horses were seized in

groups with those not at immediate risk remaining at the property. The seized horses quickly put on body condition

simply with the correct resources and treatment being provided. The owner will be prosecuted for cruelty and a banning

order will be sought to prevent her from owning more horses.

The RSPCA will seek to have legislative change to address the animal hoarding

issues which will prevent those people from owning

animals or an excessive number of animals.

Power to Seize Suffering AnimalsInspectors found themselves dealing with a number of cases involving owners with multiple starving or otherwise ailing horses. Many of the cases were high profile and received media attention. The media reported on the investigations and at times they failed to communicate to the public some of the real difficulties with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA) with respect to seizing animals.

RSPCA Inspectors thus far have seized 35 horses, which remain in our care while their owners face cruelty charges in court. The cost to the RSPCA of caring for the horses is enormous and land availability to take on any more is limited.

Previously the RSPCA has utilised the seizure warrant provisions under POCTAA. The warrant gives Inspectors the ability to seize and treat animals, but the requirement is that the animals must then be returned to the owner. One of the positive outcomes from the intense media scrutiny of particular horse cases, was that the Government assisted with some changes to assist the Inspectorate. One of these was the ability to utilise a Ministerial Order. We have successfully used these orders on a number of occasions. The Ministerial Order has been a useful compliance tool, as owners understand the finality of the actions facing them. In situations where animals are not at an immediate risk or require immediate action, the Ministerial Order is the preferable option. The order has to be served on the owner, then a minimum of seven days is required to allow the owner to fully comply with the order. If the owner does not fully comply, then RSPCA Inspectors can obtain the authority from the Minister to seize and permanently remove the animals from the owner.

CockfightingCockfighting has been identified as a real issue in Victoria and is connected with interstate drug trafficking. The RSPCA has a database of persons known to be associated with cockfighting and has collected information that gamecocks, training supplements, and fighting implements are being traded between Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland. The RSPCA has also identified several properties on the outer western fringe of Melbourne that have sheds containing an estimated 2,000 suspected fighting cocks.

Victoria Police and the Australian Crime Commission have contacted the RSPCA for assistance with cockfighting facilities discovered when executing warrants for drug related investigations. In the past year, we have been involved in cases where around 900 gamecocks specially bred and trained for fighting have been discovered.

These cases pose a number of challenges in that they are usually discovered during the course of police investigations or when a fight is in progress, meaning that Inspectors have very little notice to organise and respond to a very resource intensive investigation. There are also difficulties in having the birds surrendered, especially if we cannot identify the owner or when the owner is in police custody. If the birds have not been surrendered, the RSPCA faced the difficult decision in seizing, housing, and quarantining such a large number of gamecocks.

Cock fighting is very much an underground blood sport, as is dog fighting. The Inspectorate receives only minimal information concerning dog fighting occurring in Victoria. However, we do know it exists and the extent of this incideous blood sport is not really known. Recently received intelligence has given us further information which we are currently investigating.

Mernda MarketMernda Market is a small saleyard with a trash and treasure market that operates every Monday morning and one Saturday per month. The saleyard sells small quantities of poultry, sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, and sometimes horses. Most purchasers are hobby farmers or individuals purchasing animals for consumption.

RSPCA Inspectors have responded to complaints and conducted periodic routine inspections for animal welfare matters. During these inspections, Inspectors regularly found issues with overcrowding and inhumane transport of animals that had been sold by the market. Patrons would commonly throw poultry and livestock into car boots or transport them loose inside the vehicle. In June, a team of Inspectors implemented a strategy to educate patrons about how to correctly transport animals to insure that animal welfare is looked after. A team of Inspectors attended the market weekly. The Inspectors spoke to patrons who were seen incorrectly transporting animals, gave them a copy of the code of practice for transporting animals, issued an advisory letter to inform of possible breaches of POCTAA, took down the person’s information and warned that if seen incorrectly transporting animals again they may face prosecution.

Inspectors will continue to be pro-active at this market with the aim of changing the patrons’ attitudes and behaviour in their approach to animal handling and transport. Inspectors have already seen a positive response in that many patrons have been coming prepared with boxes in which to transport poultry and they are now approaching the Inspectors for advice on how to transport their animals.

ProsecutionsThe RSPCA prosecuted 25 cases in 2006/2007, approximately the same number as the previous year, however, the number of charges laid was 154. This is a substantial increase in the number of charges from previous years and highlights the complexity of individual cases where multiple charges are proceeded with against one defendant. All cases were successfully prosecuted with one case withdrawn prior to prosecution. The Inspectors are utilising Notices to Comply in many cases as a tool more effective in the short term, than longer term prosecutions. The majority of these notices are complied with and good animal welfare outcomes are achieved. The other successful tool used is to issue a formal warning. However, in instances where there is no compliance or the situation is such that a prosecution in the first instance is necessary, we will continue to take persons before the judicial system. There are a number of cases pending prosecution, with one case in particular where the defendant is up against 67 charges. This particular case should be heard within the next couple of months.

The ability to issue these types of notices and warning letters instead of a prosecution creates a favourable outcome for animal welfare where owners are prepared to do the right thing. Many of the Inspectorate cases have also been more complex cases, resulting in longer investigation periods than normal and have been more resource intensive with reliance upon expert forensic and scientific evidence.

Many of the cases we are prosecuting from 2006/2007 will go before the courts in 2007/2008, so we expect that prosecution numbers will rise considerably next year.

Routine InspectionsInspections 2005/2006 2006/2007

Agistment 0 1

Animals in Entertainment 3 0

Aquariums/Avaries 0 0

Deer Farms 0 0

Feedlots 0 0

Kennels/Catteries 3 1

Markets/Saleyards 10 12

Pet Shops 16 21

Piggeries 1 0

Poultry Farms 1 2

Riding Schools/Pony Clubs 3 2

Rodeos 2 15

Zoos/Wildlife Parks 0 0

Various 10 5

49 59

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277pet shop complaints responded to

by RSPCA inspectors

Community EventsIn 2006/2007 we have continued to support local community events and expand our affordable de-sexing schemes. This is a key strategy to help manage the number of stray and unwanted animals coming into our shelters.

The RSPCA has been active this year in working with many local councils and communities to promote de-sexing schemes. Regional affordable de-sexing schemes have been promoted in areas such as Ballarat, Bendigo, Colac, Mildura, Moe, Sale and Swan Hill. This year 671 dogs and cats have been de-sexed as part of these local community programs.

Throughout the year the RSPCA receives hundreds of requests for our representatives to attend business and community group meetings to share information on the programs and services that the RSPCA provides. Groups attended in 2006/2007 included Rotary, Probus, Lions and Scout groups, businesses, homes for the elderly and many more.

Regional Volunteer LeadersThe RSPCA now has twelve Regional Volunteer Leaders active across Victoria. These leaders work in the areas of event management, RSPCA campaigns and fundraising. Our leaders manage a large range of activities across the State and help to promote the work and policies of the RSPCA.

Activities include visiting local school and community groups, organising raffles, distributing RSPCA campaign material and working with the local shops and shelters to promote key activities. In particular the Regional Volunteer Leaders do a fantastic job coordinating the Million Paws Walk event in regional Victoria.

World Animal DayWorld Animal Day is an international celebration of animals and the contribution they make to our lives. RSPCA Victoria joined in the world celebrations.We hosted our 3rd annual Gala Ball at the Grand Hyatt on September 29 and raised more than $150,000 for animal welfare and adoption services. We gratefully accepted auction item donations from many companies and our organising committee was paramount in ensuring the success of the evening.

Once again Bib Stillwell BMW was our major sponsor with supporting sponsors TressCox Lawyers and Credit Union Australia.

Community PromotionsAs a not-for-profit organisation the RSPCA has limited funds for paid promotional activities so we rely heavily on support from media networks to help inform and educate the community on vital animal welfare issues. We have received excellent support throughout the year from Mitchell Communications Group, Herald Sun and Sunday Herald Sun, Leader Papers, Fairfax and regional newspapers, radio and television.

Over the Christmas period, RSPCA shelters experience their busiest season for stray and abandoned animals. To raise the profile of RSPCA shelters as an avenue for finding the ‘perfect pet’, an active outdoor marketing campaign was staged in December. This campaign was produced on a pro-bono basis by creative advertising agency M&C Saatchi and media buying agency Mitchell Communications Group.

As part of an ongoing partnership with Bib Stillwell BMW, the RSPCA was the charity partner for the coveted Bib Stillwell BMW International Golf Cup event during the year. This was an excellent opportunity for the RSPCA to reach a new audience and promote the importance of animal welfare.

Channel 7 – RSPCA Animal RescueRSPCA Victoria was honoured to be part of the filming for RSPCA Animal Rescue. Showing nationally on the Seven network from Tuesday 17 July, RSPCA Animal Rescue is an observational documentary.

The series features challenging cases, difficult situations and heart warming stories faced every day by the RSPCA’s Inspectors, veterinarians and other staff, the dedicated and professional men and women carrying out the RSPCA’s mission to care for and protect Australia’s animals.

The series is presented and narrated by popular Australian identity Anthony Field, also-known-as ‘the blue Wiggle’, and was filmed during the summer months of 2006 and 2007 at RSPCA’s in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

All Creatures DayRSPCA All Creatures Day was held on Sunday 18 March and was attended by over 8,000 people.

This is an annual event, a day where the RSPCA showcases its services and facilities and invites the community to enjoy the festivities.

Activities and highlights included the reptile, rat and ferret displays, behind the scenes tours of the shelter and clinic, the Casterton Kelpie Association and the pet dog competitions. And for the third year, Bib Stillwell BMW were our sponsors of the day.

community presence

32

19,000 people across victoria

participated in the RSPCA million paws walk

Workplace Giving PartnersCorporate Australia’s support for the RSPCA has continued to increase throughout 2006/2007, and this has proven to be a source of some important partnerships. Corporate partners can be involved with the RSPCA in a variety of ways including Workplace Giving programs, corporate volunteering, hosting RSPCA Awareness Week in their offices to promote the RSPCA, as well as conducting intra-office fundraising activities.

In 2007/2008 we will continue to conduct pro-active presentations to community-minded corporations which will help grow this program. We will also continue to provide feedback reports on the positive impact of current corporate partners support to cement these relationships.

Event Calendar for 2007/2008

Santa Paws30th November – 2nd December 2007

Pet and Animal Expo1st – 3rd February 2008

All Creatures Open Day16th March 2008

Million Paws Walk18th May 2008

RSPCA Art Exhibition9th – 20th July 2008

33

Million Paws WalkThe Million Paws Walk is an event much loved by the Victorian community and an important fundraiser for the RSPCA. On Sunday 20th May 2007 more than 19,000 people across Victoria participated in the 12th annual RSPCA Million Paws Walk.

Locations for walks included Albert Park, Geelong, Wangaratta, Shepparton, Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Warragul, Mornington Peninsula, Portland, Sale, Swan Hill, Werribee and Warrnambool.

Funds raised through entry fees and the sale of merchandise help assist the RSPCA to operate its animal shelters, support its Inspectorate services and provide community education on animal welfare issues.

We are generously supported by our national sponsor Hill’s Science Diet, and by our Victorian sponsors TressCox Lawyers, Money Managers, Parks Victoria, Sunday Herald Sun and Yarra Trams. The success of the event was due to the participation of our regional organisers, volunteers, staff and most importantly, the Victorian community who turn out in force.

$228,784total funds generated from million paws walk

34

income generation

Fundraising across Victoria provides the means to ensure the critical community work of the RSPCA can continue into the future.

This year, generous RSPCA supporters across the State have contributed more than 96% of our annual income. Fundraising activities for the year were 54% up on the previous year’s results. The increase was timely, as the organisation incurred significant costs associated with increased numbers of cruelty complaints and the seizure of 35 horses.

We are fortunate to have such dedicated donors who maintain their ongoing support and commitment to improving the welfare of animals.

BequestsBequest income for the year exceeded $7 million, more than 50% above budget. These results indicate our activity over recent years has been effective at building relationships with this group of supporters. Over the past year, we have continued to build upon these relationships to ensure the future bequest income is maintained. The major site redevelopment at Burwood East, the new shelter at Portland and redevelopment at our other regional shelters could not have occurred without these generous legacies from committed individuals.

To increase support of the Bequest Animal Program, a strategic media campaign was developed, including production of a television Community Service Announcement, which is scheduled to commence airplay in September 2007.

Regional FundraisingOver the past year, we have received generous contributions from donors in regional Victoria. Providing a variety of ways individuals and businesses can support their local RSPCA has significantly increased income over the past year. Regional fundraising growth is the result of increased community activities, as well as regional Wish List and sponsorship opportunities.

The support of Ritchies Supermarkets and their loyal customers, has continued to grow. The Ritchies Community Benefit card has raised more than $1 million for RSPCA Victoria in the past 14 years. The income generated supports our animal welfare activities and in particular many of our regional shelters.

Retail ServicesThe RSPCA retail activities, including telemarketing, raffles, regional shops and shelter retail operations, generate funds to support our animal welfare services and provide a channel to the community that is not reliant on donations or bequests.

Telemarketing services have undergone a significant operational review this year and a new structure will be implemented from July 2nd 2007. We expect these changes to assist in improving the income generation and net return for the department.

In 2006/2007 we had 18 opportunity shops predominately located in regional Victoria. These stores are managed by local volunteers and generate more than one million dollars in revenue to support the local animal welfare activities and provide a presence in regional locations.

The Animal Welfare Centre retail store at Burwood East experienced significant growth in income generation this year, with improved ranges, merchandise standards and enhanced retail skills.

Trusts and FoundationsTrusts and Foundations have raised significant income in the past year, more than double the budgeted income for this area. The generous support of the Animal Welfare Foundation of Australia continued to directly fund the work of our RSPCA Education Centre.

Generous contributions to support various RSPCA projects were also received from:

Perpetual Trustees – John and Thirza Daley Charitable Trust.

– $20,000 funding the dog walking track.

Equity Trustees Charitable Trusts.

– $5,000 funding the production of an Inspectorate brochure.

– $15,000 funding training seminars for horse owners.

Equity Trustees.

– Hazel and Arthur Bruce Bequest.

– $54,000 funding the discounted pet de-sexing scheme.

Department of Environment.

– $50,000 funding a passive waste water treatment system for our Burwood East shelter.

ANZ – Mary Kibble Trust.

– $20,785 funding the establishment of canine exercise yards and a viewing area.

96%of our income is generated

by RSPCA supporters

35

Fundraising AppealsAppeal mailings to support the general operations of the RSPCA have experienced significant growth in the past year. In addition to the four regular appeals throughout the year, an emergency ‘Drought Animal Aid’ appeal was also launched in February 2007. This appeal raised emergency funds to purchase food for drought-affected Victorian farm animals. More than $232,312 was raised and 183 farming families were assisted.

The growth of fundraising appeal income in the past year was aided by the strategic advice and creative design of advertising agency M&C Saatchi. Staff at M&C Saatchi have worked on these projects on a pro-bono basis. In recognition of their work on various RSPCA campaigns, the agency was awarded a variety of industry awards including the prestigious ADMA (Australian Direct Marketing Association) Bronze Award for Effectiveness.

We are also grateful for the generous support of Mitchell Communication Group, Syntax Direct Marketing Services, Victorian Farmers Federation, Hill’s Science Diet, Risksound, Iloura, Getty Images, Fenton Communications and NAB who have helped us achieve these outstanding results.

Various other income generation activities experienced growth this year, including our Ribbon of Life Gift Program, Wish List, Bequest Animal Program and fundraising within workplaces.

This year, RSPCA Victoria again increased the income generated through sponsorship from both corporates and individuals. All Creatures Sponsorship continued to provide extended sponsorship opportunities to include a broader range of animals that the RSPCA cares for throughout Victoria.

Betty Amsdem OAM partnered with RSPCA this year as the inaugural major Wildlife Centre sponsor through this program, while many other corporates and individuals joined as sponsors at other levels.

ANZ continued as sponsor of our Animal Ambulances for the third consecutive year. This ongoing support has enabled

us to operate this vital mobile service that rescues and cares for animals throughout metropolitan Melbourne.

Hills Science Diet was again on board as the exclusive pet food sponsor for all RSPCA shelters and the major sponsor of the Million Paws Walk. Tyrrell’s Wines have continued to support the development of our RSPCA Wine Club and provide much needed wine sponsorship for our key events.

Many other organisations provide generous support to RSPCA Victoria through their employee workplace giving programs, workplace fundraising and providing pro bono services.

Planned activity for the next year includes the implementation of the following:

Strategy to increase fundraising in regional areas.

Marketing strategy for collective RSPCA services to increase supporter engagement across Victoria.

New donor database to facilitate improved customer relationship management.

Retail development in key strategic locations.

Sponsorship and Corporate Support Future Developments

36

major donors

ProtectorsProtectors are major supporters who also show leadership in their giving which is valued and appreciated by the RSPCA.

The Animal Welfare Foundation of Australia

Dame E Murdoch AC, DBE

Mary Gray Trust

Melk Pty Ltd

Miss B Amsden OAM

Miss K Reid

Miss S Burt

Mr and Mrs C S Wight

Mr and Mrs E Rowe

Mr and Mrs I M Whitcombe

Mr A D Martin

Mr C H Whyte

Mr J and Mrs L Bates

Mr J G Schollenberger

Mr J P Salmon

Mr R Greenfield (deceased)

Mrs A Payne

Mrs B A Kelly

Mrs E Downing

Mrs M Wallace

Mrs M Johnson

Mrs M Ridsdale

Ms A E Miller

Ms V Newman

Ritchies Stores Pty Ltd

Things Seasonal

CompanionsCompanions are major supporters of all creatures great and small who also ensure the values of the RSPCA are upheld.

CSL Limited Pfizer Australia

Dr A G Firkin

Dr L Duncan

Essential Imports

Fuji Xerox Australia

Gentle Dental

Hanlon Foundation

Lady Dawson

Limb Family Foundation

Miss A L Albrecht

Miss C M Gray

Miss L Coles

Miss S Brookes

Mr A Whyte

Mr and Mrs A Broadhead

Mr and Mrs D Somers OAM

Mr and Ms L Page

Mr C H Beauchamp

Mr C Catlow

Mr G Shalit and Ms M Faine

Mr P Halstead and Ms R Hoffman

Mr I J Tyler

Mr J Webb

Mr P Martinez

Mr R C Stradwick

Mr T H Mc Lendon

Mr Vink

Mrs B H Mc Kinnon

Mrs B De Ravin

Mrs E Dunell MBE

Mrs G M Payne

Mrs J R Peart

Mrs J F Smith

Mrs M Jones

Mrs M Hauptmann

Mrs S Gelman

Ms B H J Mc Nicoll

Ms E M Russell

Ms E Warner

Ms J Davis

Ms K Wansbrough

Ms M Cronin

Ms M Huf

Ms P Johnston

Ms U Cookson

Tony Hargreaves & Partners

Warrnambool Vet Clinic

Zimmerman Family Foundation

FriendsFriends are valued supporters of RSPCA whose contribution to animal welfare is considered vital.

Carron Concrete Services

Dr B M Bullivant

Dr M Olekalns

Drs A and C Whitehead

Hulbert Foundation Pty Ltd

Manager NAB Support Services

Miss B E Hughes

Miss E Bate

Miss J Murdoch

Miss L Thorp

Miss L Riederer

Miss M Mabbitt

Miss P M Holmes

Miss S Sullivan

Miss S Cervinski

Mr A Cobb

Mr and Mrs Craig Hill

Mr and Mrs P Ellis

Mr C Lunn

Mr D Smith

Mr D Leith

Mr G Boniface

Mr H Holmes

Mr I D Kiers

Mr J G Prior

Mr K Halla

Mr M North Coombes

Mr N Spitzer

Mr P D Lord

Mr P Sewell

Mr S Heselwood

Mr S J Walmsley

Mrs C Doig

Mrs D Bridges

Mrs G Moore

Mrs I Drury

Mrs J C Dahlsen

Mrs J Robinson

Mrs K C Genssen

Mrs R De Silva

Mrs S Foote

Ms A Cimino

Ms C Harrison

Ms D L Bertalli

Ms D Cross

Ms E Neville

Ms G Rowland

Ms J Wilson

Ms J Heazlewood

Ms K T Powers

Ms L R Mills

Ms M Mercurio

Ms T Zellman

Ms V G Stevenson

37

corporate partners

Hill’s Science Diet – National sponsor of The Million Paws Walk and major sponsor of pet food for RSPCA shelters.

Sensis – Pro-bono advertising support, Workplace Giving Partners and corporate volunteering

M&C Saatchi – provider of pro-bono creative concepts for RSPCA appeals and marketing campaigns

ANZ – RSPCA Ambulance Sponsor, corporate volunteering and Workplace Giving Partners

Ritchies Supermarkets – Ritchies customers contribute more than $140,000 annually to the RSPCA

James Walshe Photography

TressCox Lawyers – Sponsor of World Animal Day and Million Paws Walk

Tyrrells Wines – Major sponsor for all RSPCA events

Bib Stillwell BMW – Sponsor of World Animal Day and RSPCA Open Day

Gorgeous Films

Novartis – Provided veterinarian treatments for our shelter animals

Money Managers – Sponsor of Million Paws Walk.

38

Alla M Passmore

Angela Gale

Anne Fraser

Annette Lorraine O’Bree

Arminel M Wreford

Arthur Cecil Wright

Beatrice Helen Purton

Bernard Joseph Lowden

Beryn Marion Bravo

Beverley Rose Hook

Bobette Alma Lepers

Cecil Fenton Bauer

Christina Triplett

Constance Alice Gardiner

Cornelius Postma

David Ashton

Diane Jackman

Dianne M Waters

DL Beddows

Dorothea T Forrester

Dorothy Anita Laird

Dorothy Chapple

Dorothy Eleanor Down

Dorothy Hilda Adamson

Dorothy June Palasz

Edith Kantor

Eileen Amy Metherell

Elma B Gilmour

Esther Jessamine Mavina Cleveland

Ethel Ruby Baillie

Finniss W Head

Frank William Beach

G Barker

Gladys Mary Williams

Grace Teresa Henshall

Grace Warlow

Hazel Gwen Maxian

Heather Marion James

Helmut Edward Gruber

Hilarie Ruth Peart

Hilda Evelyn Nevill

Irene Baker

Isobel Horgan

Jack Stanley Haynes

Jean Alice Ball

Jean M Webb

Jessica Ann Harper

Jessie D P Wright

Joan Davies

Joan Frances Scorgie

Joan M Miller

John Arthur Wilding

John Campbell Morris

John Roseman

John William Young

Josephine Waddell

Josephine Wurlod

Joy S M Stansfeld

Joyce L Foster

Judith Veronica and Christine Ann Rhodes

June Ennor

June Helen Small

Kateryna Caurs

Kathleen H Cole

Keith Eden

Keith Francis McElroy

Kenneth Sykes

Kenneth W F Rennell

Leonard Roy Watts

Leonard William Stoddart

Lily Goldsmith

Lionel Erskine Lanyon

Lynda Martha Taylor

Mafalda Bugert

Magda Somogyi

Margaret R Tindale

Maria Puvirenti

Maria Therese Talbot

Marie Betty O’Connell

Marie T Mc Veigh

Marion May Haydon

Marjorie Louise Hayes

Marjory Bolton

Mary Lillian Varco

Maud Elanor O’Leary

Mavis Maud Birchall

Mollie Roder Hetherington

MT Hurst

Nancy A Reilly

Nancy J Wilson

Neil R Mitchell

Olga Hunter

Olive Madge Cole

Pamela M Leonard

Patricia Wright

Phyllis W MacGregor

PR Diplock

Robert G Kilpatrick

Robert Tait

Roma Medwin

Rosemary H Mailer

Rosslyn Wemyss Baker

Ruth Louise Drew

Susette Anderson

Thelka Elisabeth Kirchner

Thelma Berry

Thelma C Orrell

Thomas James Irvine

Walter Linke

Walter Whyte

Warwick King

William Lewis

Winsome Beth White

WJ Woodall

bequestors & trusts

Due to the generous support of the community, we are able to meet the increasing demands on our animal welfare services.We thank and acknowledge all those who have supported us by leaving a legacy in their will.

ANZ Charitable Trust Australia

Arthur Edwin and Anne Edith Barry

Baker Foundation

Barnes Bequests

Donald Dennett James Walters

Dorothy Love Fund

Elise Mary Atherton Trust

Estate of Charles Norman Raff

Estate of F H Pennifold

Estate of Geoffrey Ian Berry

Estate of Josie Patterson

Estate of K St Clair Nanson

Estate of Katrina May Russell

Estate of Keila Hinde

Florence Aileen Anderson

Frederick Inman Trust

J Elliston Trust

Jack and Ethel Goldin Foundation

Jean Mary Greenless Trust

John Frank Aiken

John Murphy Charitable Trust

Joseph Norman Mason Trust

Keith and Sylvia McClaren Trust

Kenneth and Waverley Harris Trust

Kevin Stuart Cowell

Leslie and Hedi Basch Trust

Leslie and Helen Crawford Fund

Lola Poynton Memorial Fund

Lord Mayor’s Charitable Fund

Mary Evans Bowley Estate

Mr John R L Lees

Norman Leslie Costar Trust

Oswald Charles Hearne Trust

Peter Isaacson Foundation

Sarah and Ballieu Myer Family Foundation

Sarah Josephine Logue Memorial Fund

The Helen Fookes Trust

The Mary Gray Trust

Thelma Mary Bradbury Trust

Vera Fowler Trust

Bequests Trusts

39

honorary life members

Miss Betty Amsden OAM

Dr John Ayerbe

Mr Peter Barber

Mrs H Bartholomew

Miss Laurie Batiste

Mr Doug Baudinette

Dr Robert Begg

Dr Onn Ben-David

Mr Charles Brown

Mrs Joan Brown

Mr Peter Brown

Mrs Jan Buchter

Mrs Erica Cairns

Prof Ivan Caple

Mr Robert Carraill

Mrs Karen Cosgriff

Mrs Janice Crowley

Mr Rod Curtis

Miss Barbara Dart

Mr Peter Dunk

Mr David Elsum AM

Snr Sgt Peter Given

Mrs Nerida Gray

Mr A G Hall

Mrs Barbara Halse

The Hon Vernon Hauser

Ms Karen Hazel

Mr Garth Hodge

Mr Michael Holland

Ms Barbara Horn

Mr Richard Hunter

Mr Monty James

Dr Neville Japp

Mrs Alwynne Jona OAM

The Hon William Kaye AO QC

Mrs Marjory Kent OAM

Mrs June Killian

Mr Keith King

Mr Stuart Lawson

Mrs Rosemary Lill

Mrs Phylis Lowe

Miss Hazel Luke

Dr Barbara Maddern-Wellington

Mrs Ursula Manning

Mrs Heather McCracken

Mrs Barbara Meehan

Capt Michael J Meehan

Mr S I Miller AO LVO QPM

Miss Nan Moore

Mrs Helen Moore

Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC DBE

Mr Kevin O’Brien

Ms Glennys Oogjes

Mrs E Paxton

Mrs Carol L J Penman

Dr Peter Penson

Miss Ninon Phillips

Mrs Ann Pollard

Mrs Mirriam Quick

Mrs Joan Quin

Mr Brian Reid

Mrs H Ronzio

Mr Michael Schildberger

Mr Stephen Sedgman

Mrs Lynette Sedgman

Dr Michael Sheedy

Mrs D Sipavicius

Mr F Smith

Mrs Dianne Smith

Mr James T Smith B. Comm FEA

Prof Virginia P Studdert

Mrs Jean Wallbridge

Dr Carole Webb

Ms Shirley Westerburg

The Hon Frank Wilkes AM

Mrs Lorna Williams

Dr Hugh Wirth AM

Mrs Betty Wood

Mrs Janet Wood

Mr Graham Zetter

Mrs Sally Zetter

This is the highest award given by RSPCA Victoria. State Council awards Honorary Life Membership to those individuals who have made a significant contribution to RSPCA Victoria and animal welfare.

Honorary Life Membership was awarded to the following individuals who have now sadly passed away. Their contribution to animal welfare and the RSPCA will be remembered.

Mrs Norma Brereton

Miss Denise Hallett

The Hon Sir Rupert Hamer AC

Hon Walter Jona AM

Mr Richard Meldrum

Mrs Olive Ransby

Mrs Joan Rehfisch

Mrs Edith Smith

Lady Joy Snedden AM

financial report

Fiscal 2007 was a sound year financially for the RSPCA in Victoria. Strong bequest revenue, combined with stronger than anticipated revenue from our fundraising and event activities saw an overall surplus of $1,809,462 for the year. Fundraising revenues for the year were up on previous years and have shown positive growth for a number of years reflecting the ongoing efforts to further improve our performance in this area.

Our major events, the World Animal Day Gala Ball, the Million Paws Walk and All Creatures Day were all strongly supported by our sponsors and supporters. A number of our minor events such as Santa Paws (pet photos taken on Santa’s lap) have continued to grow from previous years helping to diversify our revenue streams. This diversification must continue as reliance upon traditional fundraising programs cannot be expected to guarantee adequate financial resources to meet the increased demands of the 21st century.

An additional appeal, Drought Animal Aid, was undertaken during the year. All funds from this appeal were re-distributed to assist animals impacted by the drought. The RSPCA also contributed to the Drought Animal Aid appeal including a donation to the appeal and paid costs to advertise and administer the appeal.

In relation to expenditure, there were a number of challenges during the year. The effect of the drought was apparent in an increase in the number of inspectorate cases during the year which had a financial impact in the costs of dealing with a large number of horse seizures. Fencing, equine vet fees, farriers, feed and added staff all contributed to the costs of restoring these animals to health. Drought related costs will continue to flow into the new financial year.

Improvements to our physical infrastructure to improve our animal welfare outcomes and the conditions our staff work in continued during the year. These issues are under constant review.

Our new Portland shelter was completed and opened in November 2006. This had an immediate effect on our ability to improve animal welfare in the Portland region.

Stage one of our masterplan at Burwood East was implemented. The construction of 200 new indoor kennels at Burwood East saw an enormous improvement in the conditions our animals experience whilst in our care. These facilities feature state of the art environmental design as well as up to date occupational health and safety features that will serve us well for many years to come.

Planning for the next stage of the Burwood East site redevelopment has commenced. These amenities will further improve our adoption facilities and construction is expected to commence in the coming year. We will continue to plan for upgrades to our regional facilities and undertake this work as funding allows. Bequest funds expected to be received in the near future will make the continued upgrade of our facilities possible.

J.T. Smith Treasurer

Treasurer’s Report 2006/2007

40

41

F2003 F2004 F2005 F2006 F2007

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

$ M

illio

ns

Fiscal Year

Expenditure increase predominately due to the impact of the drought.

Fundraising and Bequest Expenses 10%

Retail Expenses 13%

Support Services 15%Other 2%

Animal Welfare Related Expenses 60%

Bequests 34%

Other 1%

Retail Sales 12%

Fees for Service – Animals 24%

Investments 6%Fundraising 22%Government Grants 1%

Sources of Income 2006/2007

Expenditure 2006/2007

Animal Welfare Expenditure Trend

RSPCA (Vic) Inc. RSPCA (Vic) Inc. & Foundation

Note 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

INCOME

Fees for service – animals 6,011,638 6,498,425 6,011,638 6,498,425

Bequests 8,425,275 4,941,158 8,425,275 5,336,607

Fundraising 5,431,028 4,195,530 5,431,028 4,195,530

Retail Sales 3,065,752 3,314,718 3,065,752 3,314,718

Interest 693,834 111,728 693,834 111,728

Distribution from RSPCA Foundation 529,690 650,203 - -

Grant from RSPCA Foundation 416,345 624,813 - -

Government grants 300,000 355,554 300,000 355,554

Drought Animal Aid appeal donations 123,515 - 123,515 -

Site rental, education programs & sundry 110,402 317,158 110,402 317,158

Net gains on trading portfolio 74,230 - 1,643,190 1,383,222

Membership subscriptions 67,946 69,647 67,946 69,647

Dividends and franking credits - - 1,622,416 492,784

Profit on disposal of non-current assets - 28,863 - 28,863

TOTAL INCOME 25,249,655 21,107,797 27,494,996 22,104,236

EXPENDITURE

Animal welfare related expenses 14,016,677 13,500,046 14,016,677 13,500,046

Fundraising and bequest expenses 2,301,438 2,129,987 2,301,438 2,129,987

Retail expenses including cost of sales ** 3,031,054 2,685,798 3,031,054 2,685,798

Support services 3,450,308 4,135,385 3,496,252 4,175,299

Taxes and insurance 265,088 341,507 265,088 341,507

Drought Animal Aid appeal feed and other costs 229,515 - 229,515 -

Borrowing cost expense – interest paid 71,546 119,123 71,546 119,123

IT upgrade expenses 74,567 409,000 74,567 409,000

Loss on disposal of property 3 - 2,853,669 - 2,853,669

TOTAL EXPENDITURE 23,440,193 26,174,515 23,486,137 26,214,429

NET SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) 1,809,462 (5,066,718) 4,008,859 (4,110,193)

** Retail expenses including cost of sales incorporates one off expenses for restructuring costs and inventory adjustments.

42

Income Statement for the year ended 30 June 2007


Note 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents 4 1,231,700 931,649 1,358,992 935,404

Trade and other receivables 5 3,722,016 3,314,048 4,807,913 3,288,189

Inventories 6 705,717 474,555 705,717 474,555

Financial assets 7 2,251,031 3,271,109 11,688,772 11,200,265

Total Current Assets 7,910,464 7,991,361 18,561,394 15,898,413

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Receivables 5 7,731,916 8,791,418 7,731,916 8,791,418

Property, plant & equipment 8 22,968,130 15,793,591 22,968,130 15,793,591

Total Non-Current Assets 30,700,046 24,585,009 30,700,046 24,585,009

TOTAL ASSETS 38,610,510 32,576,370 49,261,440 40,483,422

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Trade and other payables 9 1,920,307 2,057,033 1,931,686 1,523,931

Interest bearing liabilities 10 2,320,706 1,357,031 2,320,706 1,357,031

Provisions 11 1,297,232 1,195,463 1,297,232 1,195,463

Total Current Liabilities 5,538,245 4,609,527 5,549,624 4,076,425

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Interest bearing liabilities 10 5,831,309 2,510,093 5,831,309 2,510,093

Provisions 11 156,330 181,586 156,330 181,586

Total Non-Current Liabilities 5,987,639 2,691,679 5,987,639 2,691,679

TOTAL LIABILITIES 11,525,884 7,301,206 11,537,263 6,768,104

NET ASSETS 27,084,626 25,275,164 37,724,177 33,715,318

EQUITY

Retained profits 27,084,626 25,275,164 37,724,177 33,715,318

TOTAL EQUITY 27,084,626 25,275,164 37,724,177 33,715,318

Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended 30 June 2007Retained profits at 1 July 25,275,164 30,341,882 33,715,318 37,825,511

Surplus/(Deficit) 1,809,462 (5,066,718) 4,008,859 (4,110,193)

Retained profits at 30 June 27,084,626 25,275,164 37,724,177 33,715,318

43

Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2007


Note 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Receipts from customers and others 15,184,735 15,039,459 15,184,735 15,236,792

Bequests received 8,009,813 5,002,695 8,009,813 5,002,695

Distribution/grant from RSPCA Foundation 946,035 1,275,016 - -

Payments to suppliers and employees (23,394,541) (23,483,269) (23,392,514) (23,840,103)

Dividends received - - 939,238 464,533

Interest received 185,404 111,728 253,336 111,728

Interest paid (71,546) (119,123) (71,546) (119,123)

Net Cash Provided by/(used in) Operating Activities 18(b) 859,900 (2,173,494) 923,062 (3,143,478)

Cash Flows from Investment Activities

Proceeds from disposal of land 1,750,000 2,250,000 1,750,000 2,250,000

Purchase of property, plant and equipment (7,689,047) (1,710,027) (7,689,047) (1,710,027)

Purchase of bank bills (984,608) - (984,608) -

Purchase of investments - (24,749) (950,770) (1,655,050)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment - 64,665 - 64,665

Proceeds from sale of investments 6,297 150,663 1,017,442 2,743,382

Net Cash Flows Provided by/(used in) Investing Activities (6,917,358) 730,552 (6,856,983) 1,692,970

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Bank bill facility draw down 4,707,216 2,510,093 4,707,216 2,510,093

Proceeds from business loan 114,000 - 114,000 -

Repayment of borrowings - (38,825) - (38,825)

Net Cash Provided by/(used in) Financing Activities 4,821,216 2,471,268 4,821,216 2,471,268

Net increase/(decrease) in cash held (1,236,242) 1,028,326 (1,112,705) 1,020,760

Cash at the beginning of the year 2,546,959 1,518,633 2,550,714 1,529,954

CASH AT THE END OF THE YEAR 18(a) 1,310,717 2,546,959 1,438,009 2,550,714

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

44

Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 30 June 2007

1. IntroductionThe Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc. (RSPCA) is an Incorporated Association incorporated in Victoria. The operations and principal activities of the RSPCA comprise the care and protection of animals within Victoria. The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the subsidiary RSPCA (Vic) Foundation Pty Ltd (RSPCA Foundation). The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars. The registered office and principal place of business is 3 Burwood Highway, Burwood East, Victoria.

The financial report was authorised for issue by the Councillors of the RSPCA on the date shown on the Statement by Councillors attached to the financial statements.

2. Accounting policies(a) Overall PolicyThe financial report is a general purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with the Incorporated Association Act 1981 as amended and Accounting Standards and Interpretations in Australia.

The financial report has been prepared on an accruals basis using the historical cost method, and except where stated does not take into account current valuations of non-current assets.

(b) Financial Report Complies with AIFRSAccounting standards include Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards. A statement of compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards cannot be made as the Society is considered to be a not for profit entity and has prepared the financial statements in accordance with the requirements regarding not for profit entities as contained in Australian Accounting Standards.

New accounting standards and interpretations which have been issued but are not yet effective have not been applied and are not expected to have any material impact on the measurement basis adopted for the financial reporting of the RSPCA.

(c) Significant Judgements and Key AssumptionsJudgements made in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements concern depreciation rates. These are reviewed annually by the Councillors to ensure that assets are being appropriately depreciated.

No key assumptions have been made concerning the future and there are no other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the balance date that the Councillors consider have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year.

(d) Financial Assets and Financial LiabilitiesFinancial assets and financial liabilities are recognised on the balance sheet when the RSPCA becomes party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument.

A financial asset is de-recognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial assets expire or are transferred and no longer controlled by the RSPCA.

A financial liability is removed from the balance sheet when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged or cancelled or expires.

(e) ConsolidationThe consolidated financial statements are those of the consolidated entity, comprising RSPCA and its 100% owned controlled entity, RSPCA Foundation.

The effects of all transactions between entities in the economic entity have been eliminated in full and the consolidated financial statements have been prepared using uniform accounting policies for like transactions and other events in similar circumstances.

(f) Revenue RecognitionRevenue from the sale of goods is recognised when control has passed to the purchaser. Revenue from the rendering of a service is recognised upon delivery of the service to the customer.

Revenue from government grants is recognised when control of monies is attained and the amount of revenue can be measured reliably.

Dividend revenue and distributions are recognised when the right to receive payment is established.

Interest revenue is recognised using the effective interest method.

Donations and bequests are recognised upon receipt or upon unconditional entitlement.

(g) Donations of Goods in KindMaterial donations of goods in kind are recognised as income at the net fair value of the underlying asset.

(h) ImpairmentAt each reporting date the RSPCA reviews the carrying amounts of assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss if any. The recoverable amount is assessed as the higher of fair value less costs to sell or the assets value in use being the depreciated replacement cost.

(i) Income TaxThe Society is exempt from income tax under Section 50-5 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2007

45

(j) GSTRevenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of GST, except where the amount of GST included is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office.

(k) Cash and Cash EquivalentsCash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits held-at-call with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments.

(l) ReceivablesReceivables represent the principal amounts due at balance date plus accrued interest and less, where applicable, provision for doubtful accounts. An estimate for doubtful debts is made when collection of the full amount is no longer probable.

(m) InventoryInventory is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is assigned on a specific identification basis.

(n) Property, Plant and EquipmentProperty, plant and equipment are stated at cost or deemed at cost. Items of property, plant and equipment, other than freehold land are depreciated over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values on either a straight line basis or a diminishing value basis as appropriate so as to write off their value progressively over their estimated useful lives commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.

The following depreciation rates are in use:

Buildings 2.5% to 5%

Improvements and Equipment 10% to 35%

Motor Vehicles 20%

(o) InvestmentsThe investments in listed company shares and unit trusts are designated as being held at fair value through profit or loss, being a portfolio with a history of regular trading and profit taking. Fair values are determined by reference to published price quotations in an active market. Term deposits are carried at amortised cost.

(p) PayablesPayables represent the fair value of the consideration to be paid in future for goods and services received, whether or not billed to the consolidated entity, plus where applicable, any accrued interest.

(q) Short-Term Employee BenefitsShort-term employee benefits are employee benefits (other than termination benefits) which fall due wholly within 12 months after the end of the period in which employee services are rendered. They comprise wages, salaries and short-term compensation absences payable within 12 months and non-mandatory benefits such as medical care, and car benefits.

The undiscounted amount of short-term employee benefits expected to be paid is recognised as an expense.

(r) Other Long-Term Employee BenefitsOther long-term employee benefits include long service leave payable 12 months or more after the end of the period in which employee services are rendered.

(s) Borrowing CostsBorrowing costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred except borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period to get ready for its intended use or sale. In this case the borrowing costs are capitalised as part of the cost of such a qualifying asset.

Borrowing costs capitalised during the year amounted to $231,622 (2006: $62,577).

The amount of borrowing costs relating to funds borrowed generally and used for the acquisition of qualifying assets has been determined by applying a capitalisation rate of 6.17% (2006: 6.17%) to the expenditures on those assets. The capitalisation rate comprises the weighted average of borrowing costs incurred during the period.

(t) ComparativesThe Councillors have reviewed the application of accounting standards with respect to the disclosure required in the income statement and have determined that the classification of expenses in accordance with their function provides more appropriate information than the previously adopted practice of disclosing the expenses by nature. Comparatives have been restated to be consistent with the current year’s disclosures.

46

Notes to and forming part of the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2007 (cont’d)


2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

3. Income and expenditure

Significant Item

Loss on disposal of property - (2,853,669) - (2,853,669)

During the 2005 financial year the RSPCA settled a legacy in the form of a property estate. As a result of the settlement, the fair value of the property was brought to account as revenue of $13,148,759 in the Income Statement for the year ended 30 June 2005.

During the 2006 financial year, following final negotiations regarding the property, the final sale price achieved for the property, after costs of sale, resulted in a loss being realised of $2,853,669.

Operating Activities

Expenses

Depreciation Expense:

Buildings and improvements 351,557 226,728 351,557 226,728

Plant and equipment 135,609 301,688 135,609 301,688

Motor vehicles 27,342 30,709 27,342 30,709

514,508 559,125 514,508 559,125

Auditor’s Remuneration:

Audit services 41,500 37,500 41,500 37,500

Other services 8,000 35,539 8,000 35,539

49,500 73,039 49,500 73,039

Employee benefits expense 12,582,742 11,958,735 12,582,742 11,958,735

Accumulation funds superannuation contributions 938,371 879,408 938,371 879,408

Operating lease expense 714,444 680,482 714,444 680,482

Bad and doubtful debt expense 206,413 59,348 206,413 59,348

4. Cash and cash equivalents

Cash on hand 11,540 12,258 11,540 12,258

Cash at bank 1,220,160 919,391 1,347,452 923,146

1,231,700 931,649 1,358,992 935,404

47



2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

5. Trade and other receivables

Current

Trade and other receivables 2,645,964 1,932,517 2,645,964 1,932,517

Less: provision for doubtful debts (431,992) (542,163) (431,992) (542,163)

2,213,972 1,390,354 2,213,972 1,390,354

Receivable on property sale 1,500,000 1,750,000 1,500,000 1,750,000

Other debtors - 173,694 1,093,941 147,835

Due from RSPCA Foundation 8,044 - - -

3,722,016 3,314,048 4,807,913 3,288,189

Non-CurrentDeferred receivable on property sale 7,731,916 8,791,418 7,731,916 8,791,418

6. Inventories

Goods for resale – at cost 705,717 474,555 705,717 474,555

7. Financial assets

2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

Fair value through profit and loss

Shares and units in listed entities 245,677 298,768 9,683,418 8,227,924

Unlisted unit trusts 121,023 - 121,023 -

Held to maturity

Bank bills 984,608 - 984,608 -

Term deposits 899,723 2,972,341 899,723 2,972,341

2,251,031 3,271,109 11,688,772 11,200,265

48



2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

8. Property, plant and equipment

Freehold land 2,880,235 2,880,235 2,880,235 2,880,235

Land, buildings and improvements 14,045,497 12,789,320 14,045,497 12,789,320

Less: Accumulated depreciation (3,841,635) (2,885,360) (3,841,635) (2,885,360)

10,203,862 9,903,960 10,203,862 9,903,960

Plant and equipment 2,548,738 3,885,196 2,548,738 3,885,196

Less: Accumulated depreciation (2,050,376) (2,629,577) (2,050,376) (2,629,577)

498,362 1,255,619 498,362 1,255,619

Motor vehicles 390,720 347,537 390,720 347,537

Less: Accumulated depreciation (283,150) (227,353) (283,150) (227,353)

107,570 120,184 107,570 120,184

Buildings under construction 9,278,101 1,633,593 9,278,101 1,633,593

Total property, plant and equipment 22,968,130 15,793,591 22,968,130 15,793,591

Movement in Carrying Amounts RSPCA (Vic) Inc. & RSPCA Foundation

Freehold Land

Buildings & Improvements

Plant & Equipment

Motor Vehicles

Building Under Construction Total

2007 $ $ $ $ $ $

Balance at the beginning of the year

2,880,235 9,903,960 1,255,619 120,184 1,633,593 15,793,591

Additions for the year - 13,899 15,912 14,728 7,644,508 7,689,047

Transfers - 637,560 (637,560) - - -

Disposals for the year - - - - - -

Depreciation expense - (351,557) (135,609) (27,342) - (514,508)

Carrying amount at the end of the year

2,880,235 10,203,862 498,362 107,570 9,278,101 22,968,130

Movement in Carrying Amounts RSPCA (Vic) Inc. & RSPCA Foundation

Freehold Land

Buildings & Improvements

Plant & Equipment

Motor Vehicles

Building Under Construction Total

2006 $ $ $ $ $ $

Balance at the beginning of the year

2,880,235 10,090,056 1,552,513 155,687 - 14,678,491

Additions for the year - 40,632 8,983 26,819 1,633,593 1,710,027

Disposals for the year - - (4,189) (31,613) - (35,802)

Depreciation expense - (226,728) (301,688) (30,709) - (559,125)

Carrying amount at the end of the year

2,880,235 9,903,960 1,255,619 120,184 1,633,593 15,793,591

The Society’s land and improvements at the RSPCA headquarters at Burwood East have been independently valued as at 30 November 2005 on the basis of current market value at $15,600,000 by Charter Kock Cramer. This valuation was completed prior to the installation of the new kennel facility at Burwood East still under construction at balance date. A new valuation will be undertaken once the site redevelopment construction is complete.

49



2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

9. Trade and other payables

Sundry creditors and accruals 1,668,562 1,495,008 1,679,941 1,506,387

Unearned revenue 251,745 17,544 251,745 17,544

Due to RSPCA Foundation - 544,481 - -

1,920,307 2,057,033 1,931,686 1,523,931

10. Interest bearing liabilities

Current

Overdraft 820,706 1,357,031 820,706 1,357,031

Bank bill facility 1,500,000 - 1,500,000 -

2,320,706 1,357,031 2,320,706 1,357,031

Non-Current

Bank bill facility 5,717,309 2,510,093 5,717,309 2,510,093

Business loan 114,000 - 114,000 -

5,831,309 2,510,093 5,831,309 2,510,093

The bank facilities are secured by a first registered mortgage over 3 Burwood Highway, Burwood East. The business loan is secured against the property at 88 Forest Street, Castlemaine.

11. Provisions

Current

Provision for annual leave 790,509 765,007 790,509 765,007

Provision for long service leave 506,723 430,456 506,723 430,456

1,297,232 1,195,463 1,297,232 1,195,463

Non-Current

Provision for long service leave 156,330 181,586 156,330 181,586

Aggregate employee benefits 1,453,562 1,377,049 1,453,562 1,377,049

Number of employees at year end 236 237 236 237

12. Lease commitmentsOperating lease commitments, payable:

not later than one year 509,208 565,990 509,208 565,990

later than one year but not later than 5 years 314,260 261,121 314,260 261,121

later than 5 years 3,790 - 3,790 -

827,258 827,111 827,258 827,111

The operating leases are in respect of retail shops and motor vehicles.

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13. Right to set-offFunds held in general accounts with the National Australia Bank by regions of the RSPCA may be used as a set-off in order for the RSPCA to meet its net overdraft obligations.

14. Related party transactionsTransactions entered into during the year with Councillors, their firms and associated entities are within normal customer relationships on terms and conditions no more favourable to those available to other members and customers. This includes the payment of usual members’ subscriptions and receipt of normal benefits of membership.

Dr Michael Sheedy, a member of Council received veterinary fees under tendered contractual conditions between the Ballarat veterinary practice of which he is a partner and the regional shelter.

Key Management Personnel CompensationThe aggregate compensation of the key management personnel is set out below. The personnel are the same for both the consolidated entity and the RSPCA.

2007 $ 2006 $

Short-term employee benefits 733,778 688,204

Post-employment benefits 80,381 96,593

814,159 784,797

15. Contingent assets and liabilitiesAt the date of the preparation of these accounts, the value of contested bequests or bequests in probate but potentially receivable by RSPCA after 30 June 2007 is estimated at $10,026,850 (2006: $6,637,350).

The association is the sole beneficiary of the Hallett estate. This estate is estimated to be worth $6,100,000. There are a number of specific requirements that must be met by the association prior to receiving these funds. It is anticipated that these requirements will likely be met during the next financial year and the funds consequently received. These funds are likely to be used to assist with funding the next stage of the RSPCA’s site redevelopment work.

There are a number of legal actions that are currently unresolved as at the date of preparation of the accounts and which will potentially incur costs to the Society.

The Society is in the process of prosecuting two complex animal cruelty matters in the courts during the financial year ending 30 June 2008. These matters have each been scheduled for five days in the Magistrate’s Court with costs estimated at $60,000 and $40,000 respectively. There is some likelihood given the history of these matters, that they may be appealed should there be an adverse decision for the defendants. Should this occur, appeals may be held during the year ending 30 June 2008.

16. Events subsequent to balance dateNo events requiring disclosure have occurred subsequent to 30 June 2007.

17. Capital commitments at balance dateThe Society is committed to the construction of a shelter development in the City of Whittlesea. The plans and costs for the shelter are still being finalised. The extent of the capital commitment is expected to be $500,000.

The Society is currently upgrading the Bendigo shelter. A contract is in place for a new cat quarantine facility to be constructed. At balance date, the work under this contract was 80% completed and $153,600 had been paid to the contractor. The remaining exposure under the contract is $38,400.

The first phase of the redevelopment of the Burwood East shelter was largely completed at balance date. Capital commitments of $639,303 remain for work still to be completed under contract at balance date.

51



2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $

18. Cash flow information(a) Reconciliation of CashFor the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash includes cash on hand and at bank. Cash at the end of the reporting period as shown in the statement of cash flows is reconciled to the related items in the financial statements as follows:

Cash on hand 11,540 12,258 11,540 12,258

Cash at bank 1,220,160 919,391 1,347,452 923,146

Bank overdraft (820,706) (1,357,031) (820,706) (1,357,031)

Cash investments 899,723 2,972,341 899,723 2,972,341

1,310,717 2,546,959 1,438,009 2,550,714

(b) Reconciliation of Net Cash provided by Operating Activities to Surplus/(Deficit):

Surplus/(deficit) for year 1,809,462 (5,066,718) 4,008,859 (4,110,193)

Depreciation 514,508 559,125 514,508 559,125

Net gains on trading portfolio (74,230) - (1,643,190) (1,383,222)

(Profit)/loss on sale of fixed assets - (28,863) - (28,863)

Doubtful debts 206,413 58,662 206,413 58,662

Loss on disposal of property - 2,853,669 - 2,853,669

Imputed interest on terms sale (440,498) - (440,498) -

Movement in Assets and Liabilities:

Receivables (1,030,031) (65,511) (1,030,031) (213,348)

Other 165,650 - (946,106) -

Inventories (231,162) 99,340 (231,162) 99,340

Payables (136,726) (901,142) 407,755 (1,296,592)

Employee benefits 76,514 317,944 76,514 317,944

Net cash used in operating activities 859,900 (2,173,494) 923,062 (3,143,478)

52


19. Financial instrumentsPrice Risk and Credit Risk ExposuresThe Committee has delegated the investment of certain assets of the consolidated entity to an investment committee which closely manages the investment portfolio according to the Committee’s investment policy. The consolidated entity does not engage in transactions which are speculative in nature.

Interest Rate Risk ExposureExposures to interest rate risks on financial assets and liabilities are summarised as follows:

Fixed Interest Rate

2007Non Interest

Bearing1 Year

or Less 1 – 5 YearsMore Than

5 YearsFloating

Interest Rate Total

$ $ $ $ $ $

Financial Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents 11,540 - - - 1,347,452 1,358,992

Trade and other receivables 3,739,905 1,500,000 7,731,916 - - 12,971,821

Investments 9,804,441 1,884,331 - - - 11,688,772

13,555,886 3,384,331 7,731,916 - 1,347,452 26,019,585

Weighted average interest rate 5.7% 8.5% 0.75%

Financial Liabilities:

Trade and other payables 1,931,686 - - - - 1,931,686

Interest bearing liability - - 7,331,309 - 820,706 8,152,015

1,931,686 - 7,331,309 - 820,706 10,083,701

Weighted average interest rate 6.2% 11.95%

Net financial assets 11,624,200 3,384,331 400,607 - 526,746 15,935,884

Fixed Interest Rate

2006Non Interest

Bearing1 Year

or Less 1 – 5 YearsMore Than

5 YearsFloating

Interest Rate Total

$ $ $ $ $ $

Financial Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents 12,258 - - - 923,146 935,404

Trade and other receivables 1,538,189 1,750,000 8,791,418 - - 12,079,607

Investments 8,227,924 2,972,341 - - - 11,200,265

9,778,371 4,722,341 8,791,418 - 923,146 24,215,276

Weighted average interest rate 6.4% 8.5% 0.75%

Financial Liabilities:

Trade and other payables 1,523,931 - - - - 1,523,931

Interest bearing liability - - 2,510,093 - 1,357,031 3,867,124

1,523,931 - 2,510,093 - 1,357,031 5,391,055

Weighted average interest rate 6.17% 11.85%

Net financial assets 8,254,440 4,722,341 6,281,325 - (433,885) 18,824,221

Credit Risk ExposureThe maximum credit risk exposure of financial assets is represented by the carrying amounts of assets recognised in the balance sheet net of any provision for losses.

Net Fair ValuesThe carrying value of all financial assets and liabilities at 30 June as recognised in the balance sheet approximates their fair values.

53

Independent Audit Report to the Members of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc.We have audited the accompanying financial report of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc. (“RSPCA”), which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2007, the income statement, statement of changes in equity and cash flow statement for the year then ended, a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes.

The Responsibility of the Councillors for the Financial ReportThe Councillors are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations). This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditor’s ResponsibilityOur responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Councillors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Auditor’s OpinionIn our opinion, the financial report gives a true and fair view of the financial position of RSPCA as of 30 June 2007, and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations).

PKF J Pasias Chartered Accountants Partner

18th September 2007, Melbourne

Statement by CouncillorsIn the opinion of the Councillors of Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc:

(a) The accompanying financial statements and notes are in accordance with the Associations Incorporation Act 1981, comply with Accounting Standards and give a true and fair view of the entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2007 and of its performance for the year ended on that date.

(b) At the date of this declaration, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Society will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

On behalf of the Councillors

H.J. Wirth J.T. Smith

18th September 2007, Melbourne

54

RSPCA ProfileThe Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Victoria was established in Melbourne in 1871.

The RSPCA is an independent animal welfare charity, which relies on community support to fund its vital animal welfare services. The RSPCA holds Deductible Gift Recipient status from the Australian Taxation Office and is an income tax exempt charity. The RSPCA Victorian state office is located in Burwood East, Melbourne.

RSPCA Victoria is a member of RSPCA Australia (the federation of the eight state and territory RSPCAs in Australia). The RSPCA National Council is made up of two representatives (CEO and President or their nominees) from each member Society.

RSPCA Victoria operates eleven animal welfare shelters, which provide refuge and care for stray, injured and abandoned animals and adoption services for the community. RSPCA inspectors investigate cruelty complaints, prosecute offenders and rescue animals from dangerous situations.

The key objectives of the RSPCA are to raise the knowledge and skills of the community in the care and treatment of animals and to advocate improved legislation. Legislative improvements for animal welfare have been achieved at both state and federal levels through lobbying from the RSPCA.

As part of our commitment to gain improvements in animal welfare legislation, the RSPCA (both at a state and national level) participates on numerous committees that review legislation and codes of practice, and lobby for necessary modifications and additions.

contents

Objectives, Vision and Values 1

Highlights 2006/2007 2-5

President’s Report 6-7

Councillors 8-9

CEO’s Report 10-11

Organisational Effectiveness 12-13

Developing Our People 14-15

Influencing Public Opinion 16-17

Animal Welfare Advocacy 18-19

Shelter Facility Development 20-21

Enhancing the 5 Freedoms for Animals – Shelters 22 -25

Enhancing the 5 Freedoms for Animals – Veterinary Care 26-27

Inspectorate 28-31

Community Presence 32-33

Income Generation 34-35

Major Donors 36

Corporate Partners 37

Bequestors and Trusts 38

Honorary Life Members 39

Financial Report 40-54

RSPCA Contact Details 55

welcome

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Photography (Cover, Welcome, Highlights, pages 2, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 33, 39) courtesy of James Walshe Photography

BallaratPO Box 4050, Ballarat 3353 Phone: 5334 2075

Bendigo20 Piper Lane, Bendigo East 3550 Phone: 5441 2209

CastlemainePO Box 701, Castlemaine 3450 Phone: 5472 5277

EchucaPO Box 1170, Echuca 3564 Phone: 0418 307 889

EppingO’Hearns Road, Epping 3076 Phone: 9408 7356

Peninsula1030 Robinsons Road, Pearcedale 3912 Phone: 5978 6706

PortlandPO Box 878, Portland 3305 Phone: 5523 4690

Sale PO Box 23, Sale 3853 Phone: 5143 2255

Wangaratta1 Connell Street, Wangaratta 3677 Phone: 5722 2874

Warrnambool23 Braithwaite Street, Warrnambool 3280 Phone: 5561 2591

Regional Shelters:

rspca annual report 2007

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc.

3 Burwood Highway Burwood East 3151

Phone: (03) 9224 2222 Fax: (03) 9224 2200

Donation Line: 1300 300 662 Website: www.rspcavic.org

Registered Number: A0024329X. ABN: 56749449191.

RSPCA Victoria

Documents

rspca annual report 2007 us/Annual Report/RSPCA... · 2011-07-11 · rspca annual report 2007 The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) Inc. 3 Burwood