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Heat-hardy breed suits Victoria

Mar 25, 2025

Despite being bred to survive the brutal conditions of northern Australia, Brahman cattle are equally at home in Victoria’s climate extremes.

Since 1933, the Brahman breed has continued to revolutionise the nation’s cattle industry.

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Developed by crossing thin-skinned, heat-tolerant Indian breeds with traditional English cattle, today’s Australian Brahman were developed by northern cattlemen who realised that traditional breeds were unable to withstand the ravages of northern Australia’s cattle ticks, heat and drought.

Today, the breed’s influence covers Australia, with stud and commercial live cattle exports to many overseas countries a clear indication of the breed’s adaptation over a wide spectrum of climatic conditions.

The growth and development of the Australian Brahman has been described as the greatest livestock revolution in history.

It has transformed the northern beef industry into an efficient and highly profitable enterprise which contributes millions of dollars annually towards domestic and export income.

In the more temperate weather conditions found in Victoria, Brahmans offer improved drought resistance, a boost in production by up to 40 per cent through hybrid vigour and an ability to increase overall herd fertility, milk production and reproductive longevity.

They also provide an outcrop in genetics which has the potential to increase stud value.

For more information on how to maximise your herd, email the Australian Brahman Breeders Association at abba@brahman.com.au or visit the Brahman site at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.