CATTLE: Belted Galloway

Country of Origin

Scotland, United Kingdom

Australian Status

Uses

Beef

Breed traits

Known primarily for its distinctive white, mid-body stripe sandwiched between red, dun, or black coats, the Belted Galloway is an ancient breed known for its hardiness, longevity, ease of calving, and adaptability. 

They are a medium framed cattle with bulls weighing between 815kg-955kg, and cows between 400-650.  The cows are excellent mothers producing calves yearly.  The cattle are resistant to pink eye, insects, and foot problems with a life span of 17-20 years.

Docile, naturally polled cattle, they are also excellent foragers, and produce lean and flavourful meat with a high dress out percentage.

History

In the 16th century, the cattle are first mention in the area of Galloway in Scotland.  In 1878 the Galloway Cattle Society of Great Britain was established.

History in Australia

The first official record of the cattle being imported into Australia occurs in 1951, although there is come evidence they were here earlier.

Breed Organisation

Australian Belted Galloway Association

Australian Population

2022:  Males: 212; Females 1089; Herds: 80

References

https://www.thecattlesite.com/breeds/beef/9/belted-galloway
https://beltedgalloway.org.au/
https://lbcentre.com.au/Galloway_Cattle__Beef_Marketing.php

Page by Carol Wormald, June 2025
 

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