| ORIGIN
AND TYPE
The British White is one of the oldest breeds
in Britain and these animals were previously known as Park cattle. Originating
at Whalley Abbey in mid – Lancashire, the original herd being dispersed
in 1697.
They spread from this area and eventually become concentrated
in East Anglia where most of the herds are still centred, although new
herds have been established in many other parts of the country.
British White Cattle were first imported to Australia
from the herd of the late Lt. Col. H. Cater, Woodbastwick, Norfolk, U.K.
by Mrs Anthony Hordern in 1958.
From the original three in – calf heifers the herd
was developed to a high level, first at “Round Hill” Culcairn
in southern N.S.W. and later at “Gledswood” Catherine Field
before dispersing the herd in June 1971.
Following the dispersal a number of N.S.W., Victorian and
Queensland cattle breeders continued breeding programmes. Today the breed
is represented in most states of Australia.
The British White Cattle Society of Australia
was formed in 1983 and currently has a fast growing membership.
A general description of British White cattle is as follows:
-
A traditional British Breed, being large, naturally polled dual-purpose
cattle. However in recent years selection has been towards a more beef
producing type whilst retaining all the important characteristics of the
breed.
They are white in colour with black points, extremely docile, hardy and
remarkably free from disease.
British Whites are good milk producers and are equally well known for
their beef qualities, the meat being of excellent texture.
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