Pastoralism

The tracts of land comprising the Corner Country are crown lands, leased to the families of the region for grazing purposes.

Properties are known as stations, with sizes averaging around 50 000 hectares. Whilst stock numbers vary with the seasons, the total for the region is about 200, 000 sheep and 18 000 head of cattle.

Throughout the Corner Country, shearing teams work in the sheds to complete the annual shearing. It takes just two minutes to remove the fleece from a grown sheep.

The wool is classed, and pressed into 200 kilogram bales. Each year the Corner Country produces about 1 million kilograms of fine merino wool.

Shearing underway.

A vital part of caring for both sheep and cattle is caring for the land. Where ever possible grazing pressure is managed so that long term damage to the environment is avoided. Providing adequate watering points, in the form of dams and troughs, is an important part of this management.

When driving through the region visitors can see many aspects of pastoralism at work. A heritage centre in the Milparinka Courthouse will soon provide opportunities for people to learn more about the industry.

Alternatively, choose to stay on a property offering accommodation in the region.

For more photographs visit our gallery below, or go to our on-line shopping for a book about out industry.