Arabic version: تقدم قافلة الماشية في إيدسفولد بدعم المجتمع

The Eidsvold Cattle Drive, a cherished event in Queensland, continues to thrive thanks to the resilience of the local community. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the biennial drive, which retraces historic stock routes through the Queensland bush. Approximately 30 participants, including long-time friends Liz Soames, Emma Masters, and Julie Stenhouse, took part in this year’s drive, mustering about 500 cattle along the way. According to ABC News, the event has become one of the last surviving cattle drives in Australia.

Local graziers generously donated about 450 head of cattle for the drive, which culminated in a celebration at Eidsvold Station. The community’s spirit was especially evident when fuel costs doubled in March, prompting an emergency meeting among organizers. In a show of solidarity, locals raised $5,000 and provided a 200-litre fuel pod to ensure the event could proceed.

All proceeds from the cattle drive are designated for essential health services in the region, including LifeFlight and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Rebekah Watt, a local army veteran who celebrated her 57th birthday during the drive, emphasized the strength of the community, stating, “This community is just so solid.”

The event culminated in a festive dinner for about 240 attendees, where local butcher Mick Kerr provided a hearty meal, demonstrating the commitment of the community to support one another. Participants expressed a deep appreciation for the unique experience the cattle drive offers, with hopes that it will continue for many more years to come.