By Rachel Holdsworth

Copyright abc

A Wagga Wagga horse trader has pleaded not guilty to running an illegal knackery.

Wagga Wagga City Council revealed in April 2024 that it was leading a joint investigation into operations that Adrian Robert Talbot’s property in Downside, north of Wagga.

At the time, council alleged a large number of horse carcasses were found at the property.

Mr Talbot, 44, at the time denied any wrongdoing and disputed councils claims.

He was charged with three offences in August by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Mr Talbot entered a not-guilty plea through his lawyers during an appearance in the Wagga Wagga Local Court today.

According to court documents, he is charged with operating a knackery without a licence between August 2023 and March 2024, and running an “animal food van” business during that period.

The third alleged offence of contravening biosecurity directions relates to pigs allegedly having access to restricted animal material on March 27 last year.

The DPIRD declined to comment while the matter is before the courts.

The case will return to court on November 10.