This comes from a combination of both aggregation and intensification that is driving increases in beef production. Some companies are using feedlotting to produce more beef from fewer cattle. Stanbroke on the other hand has increased turnoff numbers from 112,200 head last year to 142,000 head, with its total herd size at 551,000 head. In relative terms, North Australian Pastoral Co (NAP Co) displayed the largest herd size increase at almost 30pc. NAP Co purchased a new property, 'Mittiebah' during the ranking period that contributed to its increased production, while AA Co also purchased additional properties and cattle. In 2001 strong demand from overseas export beef markets and the weaker Australian dollar caused some big producers geared to the US and Japanese markets to sell heavier and more cattle than usual. Higher cattle prices also made mustering of poorer quality stock a more viable option for many producers, hence an increase in turn off.

Table: Australia’s Top Beef Producers 2001 – Ranked by Head of Cattle

Rank    Organisation                   Turnoff           Herd size
                                                                                              (head)