Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Western Plains Pork is a locally owned pork producer based in Western Victoria. We raise pigs with a strong focus on animal welfare, sustainability, and producing high-quality pork for Australian families.
Our pork is available through selected retailers, butchers, wholesalers, and foodservice partners.

We believe responsible farming starts with caring for the land.

Our approach includes:

  • Outdoor farming systems designed to protect soil and ground cover
  • A structured 9-year crop rotation program that supports soil health, nutrient balance, and long-term productivity
  • Natural nutrient cycling through our free-range system
  • Ongoing focus on efficient water, feed, and resource use
  • Commitment to continuous improvement

Our goal is simple: Leave the land in better condition than we found it.

Our pigs have purpose-built huts designed to provide protection from heat, cold, wind, and rain while supporting comfort and welfare.
Our pigs enjoy a nutritionally balanced diet designed to support their health, growth, and wellbeing. In fact, they have their very own nutritionist who carefully formulates their meals — probably better planned than most of ours.
  • Young female pigs who have never had piglets are called gilts
  • A female pig is called a sow once she has given birth
  • A male pig is called a boar
  • The gestation period for a pig is 115 days (3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days)
  • Piglets are weaned at 28 days of age
  • Pigs are clean animals and if given enough space are careful not to soil the area where they eat and sleep
  • Pigs do not sweat. They bathe in mud or water to keep cool. The mud acts like sunscreen and protects them from sunburn.
  • Pigs are very good swimmers
  • Pigs are much more tolerant of cold than heat.
  • Pigs are extremely curious animals.
  • Pigs have a great sense of smell – the snout is powerful but extremely sensitive.
  • Pigs are extremely social animals