Key Takeaways:
- Tens of thousands of cattle are dying of thirst and hunger in north-west Queensland due to their refusal to drink or enter the water surrounding them.
- The phenomenon is not new, having occurred in 2019, and is believed to be caused by the cattle’s fear of the mud and water.
- The estimated death toll is around 100,000 cattle, but the true extent of the devastation may not be known for up to five months.
- Graziers are working to save as many cattle as possible, but the task is exhausting and emotionally taxing.
- The threat of further flooding and cyclones is still present, with a tropical low forecasted to move towards the north-east coast.
Introduction to the Crisis
Stranded upon sodden islands that dot the submerged plains of outback north-west Queensland, encircled by fresh water and with grass growing before their eyes, tens of thousands of cattle are dying of thirst and hunger. This phenomenon is not only heartbreaking but also puzzling, as the cattle are surrounded by water yet refuse to drink or enter it. Grazier Angus Propsting describes the situation as "completely absurd," highlighting the cattle’s reluctance to leave their little islands, even if it means starving themselves to death.
The Cattle’s Refusal to Drink
The water is not too deep for the cattle to wade through, and there are no crocodiles on Propsting’s station to pose a threat. However, the cattle, mostly Brahman and Droughtmasters, are refusing to drink or enter the water, with some even starving themselves to death rather than crossing the water to reach the grass on the other side. This behavior is not unique to this instance, as Propsting notes that the same phenomenon occurred in 2019. The reason behind this refusal is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the cattle’s fear of the mud and water.
Assessing the Damage
The true extent of the devastation is still unknown, but estimates suggest that tens of thousands of stock have died in the weeks of rain since Christmas. Richmond shire mayor, John Wharton, believes that the estimate of 16,000 dead cattle is conservative and that the actual number could be as high as 100,000. The flooding has also destroyed fences, swept cattle away, and left many properties inaccessible, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage. Wharton notes that it may take up to five months before the scale of the devastation is known.
The Human Toll
The flooding is not only affecting the cattle but also taking a toll on the graziers and their families. Propsting describes the experience as "mentally stressful and traumatic," with the sight of dead cattle emerging from the muck leaving everyone "a bit mute and confused." The work of saving as many cattle as possible is exhausting and emotionally taxing, with many graziers nearing the end of their tether. Wharton notes that the experience is having a profound effect on the mental health of those involved, with the trauma of the event likely to linger long after the waters have receded.
The Ongoing Threat
As the water recedes, the danger is not yet passed. A tropical low is forecasted to move towards the north-east coast, bringing with it the potential for further flooding and cyclones. Grazier Guy Keats fears that if heavy rain hits the already soaked catchments, the flooding could be as devastating as that of 2019. The threat of further flooding is a stark reminder that the crisis is far from over, and the graziers must remain vigilant and prepared to face whatever challenges come their way.
The Recovery Efforts
Despite the challenges, the work of recovery is underway. Graziers are using buggies and dirt bikes to coax cattle to fodder and water troughs, while others are flying around and shooting cattle that are too weak to survive. The task is enormous, but the graziers are determined to save as many cattle as possible. As the days turn into weeks, and the weeks turn into months, the true extent of the devastation will become clearer, and the road to recovery will be long and difficult. However, with the resilience and determination of the graziers, there is hope that the industry will bounce back and that the cattle will once again thrive in the outback.