Members of Tasmanian Animal Save were joined by Animal Liberation Tasmania activists for the peaceful gathering, which consisted of interrupting trucks heading into Tasmanian Quality Meats to say goodbye to the animals being transported.

While it is the first of its kind to be held in the state, TAS forms part of the global Save Movement, which stages similar vigils at slaughterhouses around the world.

More than 20 activists attended Wednesday’s vigil, which was held throughout the day.

TAS spokesperson Hazel Alger said the events were designed to cause as little disruption as possible. 

“Our focus is on the animals,” she said.

“We aren’t here to cause trouble for staff at TQM, or the truck drivers.

“We simply ask for the opportunity to say goodbye to the innocent lives that will be taken here.”

TQM has refused to comment on the group’s activity.