With the world’s longest long-horns, seven-year-old steer JR has officially set a record (take that, Texas!), and his owners are hopeful that this prized animal could become a significant tourism draw.
Boasting a remarkable horn span of 2.77m, JR has claimed a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records, measuring an impressive three times wider than the average steer.
Owner Michael Bethel, a “dinky-di Australian,” is looking forward to an increase in visitors to his outback Queensland ranch as peak season approaches in March and April.
If you believe that fame has altered JR’s demeanor, think again.
“Since all the publicity has occurred during the offseason, he hasn’t changed one bit,” Mr. Bethel mentioned.
“I believe he’ll have a few more curious spectators watching him.”
JR’s lineage traces back to the southern United States, and Mr. Bethel is optimistic about attracting some genuine Texans to Leahton Park this coming season.
“I’m confident we will this year,” he stated. “Though I’m a dinky-di Australian, I do have ties in Texas. Texans are among the nicest people you’ll meet, and we often refer to our tourist attraction as ‘Queensland meets Texas.’
“Texans identify as Texans first, then Americans second, much like we do – Queenslanders first, then Australians.”
So what accounts for JR’s extraordinarily large horns, which even overshadow those of the famous US college football team Texas Longhorns?
“It’s a bit of an anomaly – a combination of genetics and luck,” Mr. Bethel explained.
“JR’s mother has probably produced more horn than any other beast in Australia. His half-brother possesses a substantial set of horns, although not quite as large. The genetics inherited from her (JR’s mother) are remarkable.
“We’ve attempted to replicate it, but we haven’t succeeded.”
Given JR’s significance in the Bethels’ tourism plans, one might expect him to be treated like royalty—bubble-wrapped and residing in a gold-plated barn, enjoying hand-picked grass served by French waiters.
However, that’s far from the reality.
“He doesn’t receive any special treatment—he’s just one of the boys, hanging out in the paddock with the other cattle,” he remarked.
“He’s not indulged, which does pose some risk of damage, but so far, everything has been fine.”
by Robbo Green
