She lay abandoned, covered with lime - a corrosive substance which causes chemical burns - her eyes pecked by birds. She was alive.

This is how Pete Crosbie of Willowite Animal Sanctuary found Beauty.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries officers spoke to the farmer responsible, were satisfied with the health of his remaining sheep, and declined to prosecute him for his act of heinous cruelty.

This is unacceptable. It sends a message that deliberate and intended abuse toward farm animals can be carried out with impunity. The DEPI need to make an example of the perpetrator not only to hold him accountable for his actions, but to deter others from committing similar acts in the future.

Despite Pete Crosbie seeking emergency veterinary care for Beauty, sadly, she did not survive.

*Photo from the Willowite Animal Sanctuary FB page