Droughtmaster cattle were developed by crossing Zebu cattle
(Bos indicus) with Shorthorn and Shorthorn/Devon cattle in order to breed
cattle that did well in the heat and frequent droughts of Northern Queensland
in Australia's hot tropical north.
Droughtmaster cattle contains approximately 50 percent
Shorthorn and 50 percent Brahman bloodlines. They are found throughout most
states of Australia, although they are found mainly in Queensland.
They are most commonly red, but they can vary from a golden
honey color to dark red. Droughtmasters are either polled or horned with the
majority of cattle being polled. Their heat and tick tolerance, excellent
fertility, ease of calving and quiet temperament give this breed a good
reputation in Australia.