A cow at Parliament House is weird enough but things got even more bizarre today in Perth when a bovine visitor got “off the leash.”

The cow was one of two who visited Parliament as part of a promotion for the RUOK? mental health initiative and the Perth Royal Show.

Camera Icon The cow moments before things went wrong. Credit: 7 News Perth

But matters took an unexpected turn when “Winston” slipped his handler and charged off on his own, coming close to cars at one point.

Overwhelmed by the Parliamentary experience, Winston seemingly wanted to see the sights of West Perth, scaling a chain fence and touring the grounds of Parliament House.

Camera Icon Come back! Credit: 7 News Perth

Winston’s handlers brought him back under control and he did not make his public debut in Parliament. But it meant his companion Clementine made a solo appearance in front of the press pack, and she was nervous, relieving herself on camera, prompting Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan to remark: “Clementine’s pissing it in!”

“It’s great to bring some excitement to Parliament, something that you’ve seen that farmers deal with every day that cantankerous cows can cause some problems around the place,” Mick Murray said.

Camera Icon A handler battles to bring Winston under control. Credit: 7 News Perth

Later, Ms MacTiernan joked the escape was all part of the elaborate plan to attract attention.

“I’m really pleased that Winston behaved just as we hoped he did and created a bit of excitement for the media -- now that is a well-trained piece of cattle.”

Then, handler Peter Milton revealed the media conference wasn’t Winston’s only commitment for RUOK Day

“It was Winston’s first day out in three months, his first public appearance. I guess he got a bit embarrassed,” Milton said.

“He’s got another appointment tomorrow at an RUOK barbecue down south of Bunbury.”

Reporter: “Winston’s only appearing at the barbecue as a guest, right?”

MacTiernan: “It’ll be lamb and goat -- You don’t want to see his relatives.”

Mr Milton clarified “He’s there for a photo opportunity. He walks away from all the barbecues we take him to.”

Both Winston and Clementine are expected to raise more than $15,000 for the Black Dog Ride.