What is the northern Australian beef cattle industry?
Northern Australia's beef cattle industry runs huge herds on vast stations across the rangelands of Queensland, the Northern Territory and the Kimberley. It is a major part of Australia's beef exports and live cattle trade.
Cattle stations in the north can cover thousands of square kilometres. The country is mostly native grassland and open woodland, with long dry seasons and heavy rain during the wet season.
Brahman cattle and Brahman crossbreeds dominate northern herds because they cope well with heat, humidity and ticks. They have a hump over the shoulders and loose skin that helps them stay cool.
Live export
Many cattle from the north are exported live to Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia and Vietnam. Ports such as Darwin, Townsville and Broome are major hubs for this trade.
In 2011, the federal government suspended live cattle exports to Indonesia after footage showed cruelty in abattoirs. The suspension caused hardship for producers and led to new rules on animal welfare.
Mustering is often done using helicopters, motorbikes and horses. Stations employ stockmen and jillaroos, and Aboriginal workers have a long history in the industry. Large companies such as the Australian Agricultural Company and family-owned stations both play big roles.
Did You Know?
Rockhampton, in central Queensland, is known as the beef capital of Australia.