Remains of 500 horses found on Australian property

The remains of more than 500 horses have been found at a property in rural Australia, officials said today, prompting a wide-ranging investigation by police, environmental protection and health authorities.

The gruesome discovery was made near the town of Wagga Wagga, five hours’ drive west of Sydney, and was triggered by neighbours complaining about the smell.

After an initial investigation, horse remains were found at several sites across the property and they appear to have been dumped over a long period.

“Some of these carcasses were no more than skeletal remains while others were killed relatively recently”, the Wagga Wagga City Council said in a statement.

“Numerous separate dumps of carcasses were discovered at locations throughout the property. It is estimated that there are in excess of 500 horse carcasses,” the council said.

Several other agencies are now involved in the probe, including food authorities and the state horseracing body.

“The matter remains a current investigation. No further comment will be made at this time,” the council said.