Producer-focused demonstration site increases engagement in northwest Queensland

Abstract

In 2024, the McKinlay Shire in northwest Queensland experienced higher-than-average rainfall, including unseasonal winter rain. This out-of-season rain led to a decline in pasture quality and in turn livestock body condition scores (BCS), resulting in low pregnancy rates in 2025. Concerned by these impacts, a next-gen local producer contacted the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Beef Extension team in Cloncurry, asking for assistance on managing the growth and nutrition of young female cattle in difficult conditions. An on-farm demonstration site was established with the producer aiming to help local graziers understand pasture quality in response to season conditions and the nutritional impacts on cattle.