Emergency services were called to the “distressing” scene on Bridport Road about 6.30pm.

Tasmanian Police sergeant Dwayne Kirkby said the truck was carrying 37 cattle. 

“Upon arrival we were met with a fairly grisly scene after the two-tiered livestock truck had tipped onto its side," he said. 

“I don’t know the exact number of cattle who were killed instantly or subsequently euthanised, but I know there were 20 cattle on the bottom and 17 on the top, with the majority of the top deck killed.”

The truck was driving from Scottsdale to Smithton, police said. 

Bridport Road was closed for a number of hours while the scene was cleared. 

The truck driver was taken to the Launceston General Hospital with minor injuries. 

“The driver is employed by the transport company. I understand he is a fairly new employee, but I’ve been told he is a fairly experienced truck driver,” Sergeant Kirkby said.

The Department of Primary Industries have been notified and will assess the surviving cattle. The cause of the crash is yet to be determined, but speed, alcohol or drugs and not factors.

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