Live export company Emanuel Exports and two of its former directors have pleaded not guilty to animal cruelty charges stemming from a voyage to the Middle East on which about 2400 sheep died.
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The Perth-based company lost its licence after shocking footage was broadcast showing the sheep dead or dying from heat stress aboard the Awassi Express in August 2017.
Then in July, Western Australia's Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development laid charges under the state's Animal Welfare Act.
Emanuel Exports, its former managing director Graham Daws and ex-director Michael Stanton previously indicated they would fight the charges.
On Friday, they formally entered pleas of not guilty in Perth Magistrates Court where protesters gathered outside.
The matter will return to court on January 17.
Australian Associated Press
