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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 generally about 200, 000 sheep
and 18 000 head of cattle. Since 2000, however, periods of severe drought
have had a significant impact on the capacity of stations in the area to carry
these numbers of stock. Many owners have sent stock away on agistment to
other areas, even interstate, whilst they wait for rain.
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. Traditionally, the Corner Country produces about 1
million kilograms of fine merino wool.
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 pastoral centre in the
Milparinka provides opportunities for people
to learn more about the industry,
as well as equipment displays at Mt Wood.
Alternatively, choose to stay on a property offering
accommodation in the region.
IMAGES THELDARPA
STATION
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