An Iconic Event in Cowra’s History – Droving 3,000 Turkeys

When Reuben Jacobs and his son Norman decided in April 1950 to walk their flock of 3,000 turkeys from their property 3 miles west of Cowra to their new property near Bumbaldry, some 19 miles away, it created widespread interest and saw reporters and photographers flock to town to record the spectacle. This remarkable droving feat took three and a half days for the turkeys, accompanied by six men and a number of purpose–trained sheep dogs, to complete the journey. Before setting off, the turkeys’ feet were dipped in tar then walked through sand to protect their feet from the hard road surface. This journey required the turkeys to be walked along Canowindra Road, through Cowra, over the bridge that crossed the Lachlan River and out along the road towards Grenfell, to reach their destination. Police Officers were required to hold back traffic as the turkeys were herded across the Cowra Bridge. Each night at sundown the turkeys were settled along the side of the road – there being little traffic to disturb them at this time. Stories and images of this event featured prominently in newspapers around Australia.

Cheryl McAlister – Secretary, Cowra Family History Group

This article originally appeared in the 11 May 2017 issue of the RAHS eNewsletter. To subscribe to our eNews visit the RAHS homepage.

3,000 turkeys being ushered over the Cowra Bridge, April 1950 [Cowra Family History Group]