The rugged, breathtaking landscapes of East Gippsland have long been synonymous with hardy cattle and the time-honoured tradition of the mountain calf sales, which kicked off in Omeo and Benambra yesterday.
The Elders sales stand as a testament to the resilience of the region’s cattlemen and the enduring spirit of rural Australia.
The history of the sales is deeply intertwined with the settlement and development of the High Country. From the late 19th century, graziers carved out a living in the challenging terrain, relying on the summer pastures of the mountains to fatten their calves. As autumn approached, the need to move these cattle to lower pastures or markets became paramount, giving rise to the annual calf sales.
Initially, transactions were often informal, with graziers negotiating deals directly. However, as the industry grew, the need for organised sales became apparent. Auctions began to play a crucial role, providing a platform for buyers and sellers to converge.
The Omeo calf sales, in particular, gained prominence due to the concentration of cattle producers in the surrounding high plains. The sales became a focal point for the community, a time for neighbours to catch up, share stories and conduct business.
The Elders Mountain Calf Sales are more than just commercial events. The atmosphere is unique, reflecting the individualism of the mountain cattlemen and the members of the High Country communities. You’ll find weathered faces, Akubra hats and the unmistakable sound of cattle being auctioned.
The calves themselves are renowned for their hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging conditions. The sales have become a benchmark for quality, attracting buyers from across Victoria and beyond.
Over the decades, the Elders Mountain Calf Sales have weathered numerous challenges, from fluctuating market prices to devastating bushfires and the COVID pandemic. The resilience of the local community has been a constant, ensuring the continuation of this vital tradition.
While modern technology has brought changes to the way business is conducted, the core essence of the sales remains unchanged. The shared camaraderie and the deep connection to the land continue to define the experience.
The echoes of the High Country, the bellowing of cattle, and the auctioneer’s call will continue to resonate through the valleys of East Gippsland today with sales at Ensay and Omeo.
