Queensland police investigate theft of 5,500 sheep worth $1.7M

Queensland police are investigating the alleged theft of approximately 5,500 Dorper sheep, valued at more than $1.7 million, from a farm located outside Blackall. The sheep were reportedly stolen from the property sometime between February and May of this year.

Detective Sen Sgt Paul Elliot of the rural and stock crime squad stated that the stolen livestock are Dorper sheep, identifiable by white wool, black faces, and white National Livestock Identification System tags. Both ewes and rams were taken. Elliot appealed to the public for any information regarding the theft or sightings of similar sheep.

He highlighted the complexity of livestock theft investigations, which often involve large geographical areas and require collaboration with producers, saleyards, and transport operators. Shane McCarthy, general president of AgForce, described the incident as concerning, noting a rise in such thefts across the state and emphasizing the significant impact on the farm's profitability. McCarthy suggested that a theft of this magnitude points to organized criminal activity, requiring planning and multiple individuals, rather than opportunistic theft.

Mayor of Blackall-Tambo, Andrew Martin, who has experience farming Dorper sheep, speculated that the herd was likely not taken all at once but rather in several smaller instances. He noted that while miscounting or escape can lead to losses, organized theft of this scale is a distinct issue. He suggested that stolen sheep are often processed at abattoirs, making discovery difficult until later stages.