Historical information

Bullock teams began its history from as early as the 18th century, peaking during the 19th and early 20th centuries and still being in use all the way up to the middle of the 20th century. They helped develop Australia with a cost-productive way of transporting goods all over the country through different terrains before roads or a train system was in place. As time progressed and transport options became more readily available, the use of bullock teams eventually became obsolete and are now used as exhibition and hobby.

Teams consisted of two or more bulls using a draught system that allowed them to pull extremely heavy loads over long distances. While primarily used for goods transport, its noted that early explorers Hume, Hovel and Stuart used bullock teams during their explorations in the 1820s.

Significance

The black and white photograph of the Beenak bullock team has historical significance as it shows an industry that was incredibly valued for delivery of different trade in very isolated areas, which helped to build a rapidly expanding nation.

Physical description

Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper. The black and white photograph depicts two photos of the Beenak bullock team in the Australian bush hauling cut down trees. In the first of two images, a man can be seen holding a long thin whip to move the bullock team into one direction, with Australian bush and trees in the back and foregrounds. There are two cut trees in the bottom left of the image and several more logs in the top right in the background. In the second of two images, the man can be seen holding a whip and using a rope to lead the cattle of the bullock team to the logs surrounded by tall bush and several large trees in the background.

Inscriptions & markings

Reverse:
Wal Legg /