Camel Commercialisation in the Goldfields Esperance Region of Western Australia: An Exploratory Scoping Review

<p dir="ltr">ABSTRACT<br>Purpose: This review aims to explore the benefits and barriers of the commercialisation of camels (camelus<br>dromedaries). Included is a discussion section exploring the impacts that commercialisation might have on<br>local communities, including Aboriginal and pastoralist communities. While this report may offer a base<br>framework, further study is necessary to explore related issues and recommendations in more detail. Method:<br>The authors utilised online databases, hand-searched grey literature, and anecdotal information via a field trip<br>to Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. These resources were subsequently screened for suitability. Thematic<br>analysis was conducted on the literature. Results: Seven key themes were identified in the literature; (i) camel<br>farming, (ii) barriers, (iii) socioeconomic benefits, (iv) rural and remote Australian communities, (v)<br>Indigenous Australians, (vi) camel culling, and (vii) camel by-products. Discussion: Current management<br>methods consist primarily of culling. Historically, there have been some government instigated management<br>projects, however, the responsibility for managing camel populations largely falls on pastoralists. Camel<br>populations presently impact rural, remote and Indigenous Australian communities in Western Australia,<br>primarily causing damage to infrastructure and affecting other livestock. The literature suggests that, for<br>commercialisation/farming to be viable, there needs to be a defined market that pastoralists can supply.<br>Currently there are known international markets including meat/by-product markets in China and other areas<br>of Asia, plus Middle Eastern markets, and various halal markets globally. There are also potential domestic<br>markets, namely for pet foods, human consumption, milk, etcetera. Conclusion: The authors found that there<br>are economic and social benefits for the formalised commercialisation of camels in Australia, assuming the<br>barriers are adequately addressed. The Western Australian Goldfields Esperance region stands to profit from<br>camel processing and export, both internationally and domestically, as well as increased employment<br>opportunities, specifically for Indigenous Australians. The authors believe that this report is best utilised as a<br>resource for further study into areas including socioeconomic implications, cultural considerations, and long-<br>term farming prospects.<br></p>