Aside from the general personnel required for the ship, competent stock handlers are required for every journey. These individuals can consist of crew members which have the required animal handling skills or more commonly, an accredited stockperson.
During the journey, vessels have a minimum of 1 competent stock handler per 30,000 sheep or 3000 cattle. On top of this an Australian accredited veterinarian is required on all journeys unless meeting exceptions of the export code. The competent stock handler and veterinarian work closely with the crew to ensure the common goal of high animal welfare is achieved.
Daily duties include providing freshwater, clean feed, dry bedding and the monitoring of animals – ensuring sick or injured sheep are removed and treated.