The Minister told Parliament today: "There has been a spate of animal cruelty cases recently which have shocked, outraged and sickened the community.

"Unfortunately, two of the cases that have generated national headlines have occurred in or near my hometown of Mackay.

"First, the fox terrier Peanut was allegedly tortured before being killed.

"Two men have now been charged so I will say no more about that case.

"Locals were then disgusted to hear that a pet cat called Basil was killed and dumped at a North Mackay school.

"Basil's owners and other concerned citizens have offered a $2000 reward to help find those responsible for Basil's death.

"It's also been revealed that a second cat was found dumped at a Mackay school some weeks before Basil was killed.

"I want to assure people that there are substantial penalties for animal cruelty and they are about to increase.

"From the first of January the maximum fine for cruelty to animals will jump from $75,000 to $100,000 for an individual, and from $375,000 to $500,000 for a corporation.

"The maximum prison term for cruelty remains at 2 years' jail and for breach of duty one years' jail.

"It is important to note that the RSPCA is not pushing for the Animal Care and Protection Act to be further toughened.

"Rather, it is calling for the judiciary to use the penalties available under the Act and hand down harsher sentences.

"This Monday there will be a protest meeting outside the Mackay Courthouse organised by concerned citizens.

"The organisers say they want to send a message to the judiciary that the public expects harsher sentences for animal cruelty."