Irish in Oz: Working on a 6,000ha suckler farm in Queensland

An Irish couple, Cian Maguire from County Cavan and Emer Marsh from County Kildare, have recently returned from a season spent working on a 6,000-hectare cattle farm in Queensland, Australia. The farm, operated by JK Cattle Co, is owned and managed by Justin and Kate Boshammer, who met through their shared passion for Angus cattle. The couple has been developing their breeding herd for 20 years, with the farm now comprising 780 breeding cows spread across four properties in the Western Downs region of Queensland, approximately 350 kilometers west of Brisbane.

The region is renowned for its agricultural productivity, supporting both cereal farming and grazing cattle. This has led to a high concentration of cattle feedlots in the area. JK Cattle Co's pedigree suckler herd consists of approximately 400 Angus cows, 200 Brangus cows, and 120 Wagyu cows. Cian explained that while this stocking rate might seem extensive from an Irish perspective, the grass-growing capacity in Queensland is much reduced compared to typical Irish land.

Brangus cattle, a cross between Angus and Brahman breeds, were introduced to the farm to take advantage of their unique traits. These cattle possess the typical Angus characteristics, such as high-quality meat and efficient feed conversion, while also exhibiting the resilience of the Brahman breed. This makes them better suited to the challenging Australian grazing conditions, including prolonged high temperatures, droughts, parasite presence, and long walking distances.

During their time on the farm, Cian and Emer gained firsthand experience with the Australian way of life and farming practices. Cian, who hails from County Cavan, spent his days herding cattle on the expansive 6,000-hectare property. The couple's experiences working alongside the Boshammers provided them with valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of farming in such a unique environment.

The Western Downs region, where the farm is located, is a testament to the potential of Australia's agricultural sector. Its diverse landscape and favorable climate support a range of farming activities, from cereal production to cattle grazing. The presence of multiple feedlots in the area highlights the region's role as a significant player in Australia's beef industry.

For Cian and Emer, their time working on JK Cattle Co's farm was an opportunity to learn from experienced farmers and gain new perspectives on the industry. Their experiences in Queensland have undoubtedly enriched their understanding of farming practices and the challenges faced by farmers in different parts of the world. As they return to Ireland, the couple carries with them a wealth of knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the diverse and dynamic nature of agriculture.