FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need previous experience with cattle?

No, just a willingness to learn how to care for them, have time for them and make the necessary provisions for them. They live long lives so make sure you are not infatuated with the idea of a small cute calf just for the short term. They will grow. A lot of the ‘minis’ you see on instagram may still be young calves so manage expectations and be prepared for a cow/s (albeit smaller than the standard)

I have no other paddock animals will it be ok on its own?

Cattle are herd animals and if left on their own with no company they will be definitely be prone to loneliness, skittishness and depression. If you have no other cattle or companion animals (eg. goats, lamas, donkeys, horses etc) then we would sell you 2 Galloways so they have at least one companion. We would naturally adjust the sale price for 2 if this is your situation.

How much land do I need?

Approximately 5-7 acres / 2-3 hectares per ‘cow’. This will help not to over graze. They don’t like to graze where they have decimated a paddock with their pees and poos, so having an additional paddock or dividing a larger paddock/s is ideal so you can “rest” at least one while the other one is in use. This management will also help to heal and improve your soil by allowing the grasses and legumes to have time to set down better root systems and letting the cow pats decompose and put carbon and great nutrients back into the soil. So for two cows you would need about 10-15 acres / 4 - 6 hectares

What do they eat?

Cattle should have access to clean water and good pasture grasses. They are great foragers and will be content on most pasture grasses. Depending where you are, size of your property, and winter or dry seasons you may need to supplement with good quality hay

What is the difference between a heifer, a cow and a steer?

A heifer is a female that has not yet had a calf. They are usually ready to breed around 2 years of age. A cow is a female that has already proven that she can calve.

A steer is a neutered male (a bull that has been castrated) so can no longer breed. This means he can easily be kept with any other cattle (heifers, cows and other steers) and is of a quieter temperament than a bull. A pair of steers is a great way to start out.

Do I need a fence?

Absolutely. We are unable to sell our cattle to farms or properties without adequate fencing. It is for their safety and your peace of mind

Do they need shelter?

Yes. Our harsh Australian conditions means they will need shady trees. If you don’t have any suitable shady trees then a 2 or 3 sided shelter. These animals need to find shade and shelter from our very harsh sun, strong winds and our torrential and prolonged rains.

What are registered cattle?

Our Galloways are registered with the Australian Galloway Association AGA. This means that each animal has proof of identity of their heritage and also lists their progeny. This can give you great confidence in the complete transparency of their backgrounds and essential information should you wish to breed them

I am a first time cattle owner, what do I need to do?

You would need to have a PIC. A Property Identification Number. This is compulsory and a legal requirement in Australia for all livestock owners. It is easy to apply online or by phone through your State’s relevant authority. For example in NSW it is ‘Local Land Services’. It is a relatively minimal cost and in some states it is free. In relation to caring for your cattle or any infrastructure you may need, we can talk to you directly and help guide you

What determines their price?

It is determined by a variety of reasons: breeding, bloodline, proof of registration, age, colour and markings, proven breeders and of course… gentling. All our herd have daily care and a great deal of time and attention has been put into them to ensure their quiet temperament. Galloways also live very long lives, many up to 14-18 years old and they can also continue breeding into a fair age. Galloways are considered premium cattle (yet some will be cheaper than your covid puppy!). Learn a little more about our sale process here