By J Scicluna
Public outrage continues to grow in Mount Eliza as animal neglect protests approach their ninth consecutive week, with former horse trainer Maxine Fraser is facing mounting pressure and no public support for her recently launched GoFundMe campaign.
Created on 3 June 2025, Fraser’s GoFundMe page titled “Save These Horses and Goats. Drought Emergency Relief” seeks $2,400 to purchase feed for animals on her Mount Eliza property. The campaign remains unfunded, despite widespread attention and escalating concern over the welfare of up to 80 animals—including horses, goats, and dogs.
In the fundraiser post, Fraser writes what many have described as an incoherent and disjointed plea for assistance. In one excerpt, Fraser writes:
“People who critic’s choice have no idea about the hardship of farmers and can be very cruel, inhuman and insensitive.”
The post goes on to cite a 600% increase in hay prices and a complete lack of external support—claims that have failed to resonate with the public, as the fundraiser remains at $0 more than a week after launch.
“Feeding has hit crisis. The cost of bales of hay has risen 600% if you are lucky enough to find any.”
However, protesters and neighbours say the situation on the property has deteriorated over many years, long before the current hay shortage. Drone footage reportedly shows animal carcasses at burn sites, while on-ground observers continue to document signs of poor health, malnourishment, and inadequate shelter.
In a heated video confrontation recorded during week eight of protests, Fraser was seen screaming at demonstrators:
“Am I ashamed? Not at all. What I’ve endured in this life, you wouldn’t have the boots or the guts to do it.”
According to the Herald Sun, the RSPCA is unable to seize the animals due to legal constraints under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. Fraser has reportedly entered into a management care plan with the RSPCA, meaning any unauthorised seizure of the animals could be considered unlawful. The loophole has left authorities unable to act unless Fraser voluntarily surrenders the animals.
Protesters say the legal impasse has created a dangerous precedent.
“It’s as if she’s been put in the ‘too hard basket’,” one activist said. “If she sells up and leaves, local authorities seem happy to wash their hands of it.”
It is understood that Fraser has recently sold the Mount Eliza property for a reported $5 million, but settlement could take up to six months. Protesters fear that in the meantime, the animals will continue to suffer and receive only the most minimal care while the bureaucratic system delays intervention.
Animal welfare advocate Tracey Asquith continues to push for legislative reform, including support for the proposed Animal Care and Protection Bill that would replace the outdated 1986 Act. She has launched multiple petitions demanding immediate government action to close legal gaps and strengthen enforcement powers.
Community members and animal lovers across the Mornington Peninsula are being urged to remain vigilant and continue reporting concerns. Demonstrators say they will maintain their presence at the property until every animal is safe.
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if these animals were your parents pride and joy just imagine how disgusted they would be with Maxine to the way you have treated and not cared for their legacy. I personally wouldn’t leave you a bar of soap to care for you wicked horrible human