The situation is further threatened by an approaching tropical low in the Coral Sea expected to move toward the north-east coast, bringing heavy rains that could worsen flooding and hamper recovery efforts.

Local leaders warn that full damage assessments could take months as cattle are moved, rescued, or die, while mental stress rises among farmers and residents witnessing widespread destruction.

Grazier describes cattle perched on small dry patches, unwilling to cross water for fodder, a pattern echoed by similar floods in 2019 when massive livestock losses occurred.

Tens of thousands of cattle in north-west Queensland are dying of thirst and starvation despite being surrounded by water and grass on flooded plains, as fear and paralysis in mud impede feeding and movement.

Flooding and heavy rains have swept away fences and forced urgent rescues, with cattle displaced across properties; graziers are using buggies, dirt bikes, and helicopters to feed and save stock, and mortality estimates range up to about 100,000 though official tallies may be lower due to isolation.

Producers report ongoing distress among cattle, including dying calves and weakened herds from prolonged inundation, mud, and fatigue, with some farmers forced to shoot injured animals to spare them prolonged suffering.