Queensland Farm to Export Camel Milk to US

Paul Martin's Summer Land Camels farm on Queensland's Scenic Rim is about to make history as Australia's first accredited facility to export fresh camel milk to the United States. The farm will ship between 30,000 to 60,000 liters annually to California once final approvals come through later this year.

The operation transforms what was once considered a pest problem into agricultural gold. Australia is home to over one million feral camels, descendants of animals brought here 180 years ago to transport goods across vast distances before cars and trains took over.

Martin and his team muster feral camels from the outback and bring them to the 300-camel farm, which has also become a popular tourist attraction. "To see an animal that was shot and discarded, to now seeing people come and fall in love with them, it's amazing," he said.

The timing couldn't be better for breaking into the American market. Camel milk contains less lactose than cow's milk, making it easier to digest for many people, and the US wellness industry is hungry for alternative dairy options.

The growing Chinese and Somali populations in America are already familiar with camel milk, creating built-in demand. Martin isn't worried about current tariff restrictions affecting the export plans.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just one farm's success story. Several camel dairies across Australia now export products like milk powder and skincare items to Asia and beyond, creating a whole new agricultural sector.

Professor Ben Lyons from the University of Southern Queensland sees camel milk following the path of beef and wool, which started as niche exports before becoming industry giants. "We've got some of the best farmers in the world," he said, noting how Australian producers excel at adapting to challenging climates and finding global markets.

The expansion means real economic growth for the region. Martin will upgrade from hand-filling bottles to automated systems, hire more staff, and increase milking from once to twice daily to meet demand.

But America is just the beginning. Martin heads to Singapore next month on a trade mission and is developing powdered products for the Chinese market, with Brisbane Airport offering quick access to Asian customers.

Australia is proving that thinking outside the box and valuing what others overlook can create thriving new industries that benefit communities, animals, and farmers alike.