The Underwoods first started breeding Droughtmasters in the early 70s on the family sheep property “Sandalwood” south of Hughenden. The dominant breeds in North Queensland at that time were the Shorthorn and Brahman however Roger’s father, Ian, preferred the Droughtmaster because of the breed’s colour, temperament and strong poll. The original sires and 40 breeders were sourced from John Stewart-Moore’s Telemon Stud west of Hughenden.
In later years the herd was further influenced by the introduction of Kengoon, Mungalla and Strathfield bloodlines.
The family purchased Eversleigh in 1986 and Roger established his own sheep and cattle operation in 1994 including a herd of 1600 pure Droughtmaster breeders. In 2004 we began “Eversleigh Droughtmasters” Stud no 1101. In 2009 we added to our stud operation with the purchase of the entire Wallace Vale stud and commercial herd as well as the prefix. The two studs are run as separate enterprises.
We have maintained a strong poll background and strive to produce an animal which is early maturing, has good temperament and can adapt to any season and a variety of conditions. This ability to adapt has been proven by our recent relocation to “Pine Hills” in the Maranoa/Warrego region of south-west Queensland.
