General News
19 August, 2025
Gulf cattle property to remain in local hands
It was an emotional auction win for Gregory grazier John Clarke.
A popular Gulf family has extended its property portfolio after it purchased Brookdale Station for $14.5 million at auction on Saturday.
John and Sue Clarke from the nearby Almora Station led the tense bidding at The Ville in Townsville.
For John, who is also deputy mayor of Burke Shire Council and a life member of the Gregory Downs Jockey Club, it was an emotional purchase.
“We are glad to keep the property in the family,” he told North West Weekly.
“In 1908, my grandfather Gordon Smith, who was 10 years old, along with his parents Oliver and Elizabeth, and eight siblings ranging in age from 17 to three months, travelled from Green’s Creek near Duchess to Brookdale.
“Gordon drove the goat herd, the trip taking about three weeks. I can’t imagine how hard it would have been arriving with only a tent to live in.”
Saturday’s auction was the first time Brookdale Station was sold in its history as a pastoral property.
Five bidders were registered for the auction with offers starting at $9 million.
Brookdale comprises 2576 hectares of freehold and 18,701ha of leasehold country.
As well as 21,277 hectares, the Clarkes acquired around 2750 cattle, as well as plant and equipment.
The herd comprised mostly Grey Brahman breeders carrying years of Tartrus and Lancefield genetics.