Western Australian Farmer Shifts Livestock Production from Sheep to Cattle

Jason Holdsworth, a Western Australian farmer, began switching his livestock operation from sheep to cattle in 2023. The change was prompted by difficulties within the state's sheep industry, including issues with live export and securing shearers. Holdsworth purchased Hereford cattle from a dispersal sale that took place in Victoria.

The transition represents a fundamental change in agricultural production methods in the central wheatbelt region. By shifting from sheep to cattle, Holdsworth is altering the supply of livestock products and focusing on breeding easy-care, fast-growing cattle.