Vu Ho, a motor mechanic, came to Australia as a refugee from Vietnam. He has chosen to represent himself in an appeal to the Supreme Court to grant him the right to keep his sheep, Baa, at his workshop.
Ho has owned Baa for twelve years, but has only recently been informed by Greater Dandenong Council that he cannot keep his pet. There is a law that prohibits residents from keeping livestock on their properties. Rather than allow the council to confiscate his woolly companion, Ho took the matter to the Supreme Court.
Ho's attempt to have the law quashed by the court was unsuccessful in May, however. He also had a difference of opinion with the legal team who were handling his case pro bono. Ho is determined to learn the law as his case proceeds, and is receiving assistance from court staff and lawyers representing the council. Seeking support from the community could also help his cause – something which could perhaps be achieved through flyer printing.
So far, the legal action has cost Ho over $200,000 and it seems likely to cost much more as he finds his way through the legal maze. He remarked:
"I'm glad the process takes a bit of time because it gives me a chance to learn."
Ho said that Baa is also unaware of what is happening.