Widespread flooding in north-west Queensland has resulted in the deaths and disappearance of tens of thousands of cattle since late December. The Department of Primary Industries reported 29,240 head of livestock dead or missing as of Wednesday evening, with projections from industry analysts and local officials suggesting the final figure could be significantly higher. Properties in the region have experienced extensive inundation, impacting animal health and access to feed.
Livestock Losses and Scale
Estimates for livestock losses vary. The Department of Primary Industries confirmed 29,240 head of cattle as deceased or missing. An industry analyst projected this figure could reach 50,000, while the Richmond shire mayor indicated potential losses closer to 100,000 head. Some individual producers are estimated to have lost up to 50 percent of their stock.
Grazier Emily Stevens of Cremona Station, 70 kilometers north of Julia Creek, reported finding approximately 1,500 deceased cattle on her property. Jaye Hall of Caiwarra Station, 45 kilometers north-west of Julia Creek, confirmed losses of calves and some adult cattle. Guy Keats, operating on black soil plains, also reported substantial calf losses.
Assessing the total impact is expected to take up to five months due to factors such as damaged fences and the displacement of animals across properties.
Impact on Properties and Cattle Health
Properties in the affected region have received significant rainfall. Cremona Station recorded 742 millimeters between December 18 and January 7, exceeding its typical annual rainfall by 100 millimeters. Ms. Stevens reported 80 percent of her property as either submerged or inaccessible. Jaye Hall's 45,000-hectare property continues to have large flooded channels.
Ground conditions in many areas are characterized by deep, slurry-like mud, which impedes movement for both animals and humans. Cattle are experiencing various health issues and challenges due to the conditions:
- Exhaustion and Illness: Surviving livestock are vulnerable after prolonged exposure to muddy conditions.
- Skin Conditions: Jaye Hall reported cattle affected by "black soil bacteria," a skin condition resulting from extended exposure to mud and water.
- Starvation and Dehydration: Grazier Angus Propsting, operating north-east of Richmond, observed that cattle are not drinking from available floodwaters and are unwilling to traverse submerged areas to access feed, leading to animals perishing on isolated elevated areas. This phenomenon was previously noted during the 2019 floods.
- Calf Losses: Guy Keats reported significant calf losses due to prolonged standing in floodwaters.
Displaced cattle have been observed on outback highways, prompting caution for motorists.
Comparison to Previous Flooding Events
The current flooding event follows a significant flood in 2019, which resulted in the loss of over 600,000 cattle across outback Queensland, affecting an estimated 11.4 million hectares. While this summer's flooding is described as more localized compared to the 2019 event, livestock deaths are ongoing, and the full economic impact on producers is still being assessed.
Response and Challenges
Recovery operations have begun, with graziers attempting to guide cattle to fodder and water troughs. Some animals have been reported as unresponsive to typical herding methods, including those involving helicopters.
Future Weather Outlook
The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated a moderate chance of a tropical low forming in the Coral Sea. This system is expected to move towards the north-east coast in the coming days, with the potential to develop into a cyclone and bring significant inland rainfall over the upcoming weekend. The Flinders River, north of Julia Creek, continues to expand its flooded footprint.
Graziers have expressed concern about additional rainfall on already saturated catchments. Richmond grazier Cody Rogers noted that surviving livestock have expended significant energy, and Guy Keats raised concerns that renewed heavy rainfall could lead to further extensive flooding. The wet season is still in its early stages, indicating the potential for additional weather events.