The Woolshed

A question put forward to the Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health) regarding The Woolshed.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (15:16): My questions are directed to the Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse:

1. Will the minister confirm that The Woolshed was directed by her department to sell some 25 cows (in the middle of a drought) because it needed the money?

2. Is the minister aware that the site is now a fire risk because they cannot keep the grass down?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health) (15:17): I thank the honourable member for her question. I am not aware of the sale of any cows, but I am happy to look into that most important matter and bring a response to the chamber. I am sure everyone is hanging on the answer to that question. I am happy to put the agency's resources to work to find out about cows. However, I would imagine that, during a period of significant drought, probably (if there are 25 cows) it would be quite difficult to feed them at that particular time. I will put the agency's precious resources to work and find an answer to this most important question, and I will bring back a response. In terms of fire, we know that fire risk assessments are completed and, to the best of my knowledge, The Woolshed, as with all of our other services and facilities, complies with requirements.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

Thursday 11 September 2008

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (1 April 2008).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises, Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Energy): The Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse has advised:

1. Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia was not instructed to dispose of cattle at The Woolshed site.

I am advised by DASSA that cattle are sold when it is the appropriate time for them to go to the market, taking into consideration their age and market prices.

It is my understanding that calves will be purchased to replace the sold cattle to maintain the pastures at The Woolshed.

2. I am advised by DASSA that there is no extra fire risk at The Woolshed site.