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, 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 NSW, 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
- Large, naturally polled dual-purpose cattle
- White in colour with black points
- Extremely docile, hardy and remarkably free from disease
- Good milk producers and equally well known for their beef qualities, the meat being of excellent texture.