BOOSTED by rapid herd recovery after three successive years of above average seasonal conditions following the 2019-20 drought, Australia’s cattle herd has reached its largest size since 2014.
National cattle numbers are now at 28.8 million head, Meat & Livestock Australia estimates in its 2023 beef industry projections issued this morning. However some independent analysts have already branded the projection ‘heavily optimistic.’
The correction on supply/demand after the herd earlier hit a 32 year low due to drought liquidation, is likely to see cattle prices closer to longer term…