A water-controlled rotational grazing system: Rockhampton Downs, NT

A water-controlled rotational grazing system: Rockhampton Downs, NT Report

DKCRC Working Paper

  • Author(s): Walsh, D
  • Published: 2009
  • Publisher: Desert Knowledge CRC
  • Volume: 52

Abstract: This case study describes a water-controlled rotation system which has been trialled at Rockhampton Downs since May 2004. The idea for the system came about after managers noticed how well holding paddocks responded after being heavily stocked for short periods and then rested. The concept they have trialled is turning waters on and off in a single paddock during the dry season so that the cattle rotate throughout the paddock. The trial paddock was initially part of a larger paddock that was divided in halves. During the trial, the other half was managed under normal station practice (continuous grazing) for comparison. Each water in the rotation paddock is used for approximately six weeks during the dry season before being switched off. Cattle then move themselves to the next water, with station staff following up any stragglers. Over the wet season, cattle are free to graze wherever they like, but naturally concentrate on the red soil after rains. Each water point is thus spelled for up to 40 weeks depending on the duration of the wet season. Under the system, 80% of the paddock is being spelled at any given time during the dry season.

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Suggested Citation
Walsh, D, 2009, A water-controlled rotational grazing system: Rockhampton Downs, NT, Volume:52, Report, viewed 16 February 2025, https://www.nintione.com.au/?p=4893.

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