Questions and Answers
1. Our Cattle & Farming Practices
Where does your beef come from?
All of our beef is raised directly by our family at Sunset Bluff Cattle Co in the Hawkesbury River region. We are a true paddock-to-plate operation, meaning there are no middlemen, feedlots, or third-party suppliers. When you buy from us, you are buying directly from the source. We raise our own Cattle and also source stock from Registered Dexter Breeders who are members of the Dexter Cattle Association of Australia. (DCAI)
What breed of cattle do you raise?
We specialise in Dexter cattle. Originally an old English heritage breed, Dexters are smaller and stockier than standard commercial cattle. They are renowned for producing incredibly high-quality, well-marbled beef with a rich flavor profile. Because of their smaller size, the cuts are perfectly portioned for everyday family meals.
Is your beef 100% grass-fed and grass-finished?
Yes. Our cattle spend their entire lives on open pasture, eating a natural diet. We do not use grain-feeding to artificially fatten our herd. This natural, slower growth results in a leaner meat with a more complex flavour and higher levels of Omega-3s compared to supermarket beef.
Do you use artificial hormones or preventative antibiotics?
No. Our animals are raised naturally and slowly on pasture without the use of growth-promoting hormones.
2. Ordering & Bulk Purchases
How much freezer space do I need for a quarter or half cow?
This is where our Dexter cattle shine. Because they are a smaller breed, you won't need a massive industrial chest freezer to buy in bulk. A quarter share typically fits easily into two standard empty oversize freezer drawers in a large household fridge-freezer combo.
Why does the final meat weight differ from the "hanging weight"?
If you purchase a bulk share, you might notice the final weight of the boxed meat is lower than the hanging weight. During the butchering and dry-aging process, moisture naturally evaporates, and excess fat and bones are trimmed away. You can typically expect the final packaged meat you receive to be about 60-65% of the hanging carcass weight.
Can I request specific cuts in my beef box?
Our standard beef boxes are curated to ensure nothing from the animal goes to waste, offering a mix of premium steaks, slow-cooking cuts, artisan sausages and mince. If you have specific dietary needs or a custom request, drop us a line and we will do our best to accommodate you.
3. Packaging, Delivery & Cooking
How is the meat packaged?
Our beef is professionally butchered and immediately cryovac-sealed (vacuum-packed). This removes the oxygen, naturally extending the shelf life in your fridge and entirely preventing freezer burn when you store it for the long term.
How does delivery work, and do I need to be home?
Most orders are delivered by one of our farmers. Your order is packed in a plastic liner and cardboard boxes, then transported in a chilled cubicle, chilled temperatures are maintained during transit. While we recommend getting your meat into the fridge or freezer as soon as possible, the packaging is designed to keep your beef cold on your doorstep for around an hour. If you are not home at the exact time of delivery we will speak with you on your designated contact number to discuss leaving or returning later for delivery.
Why is the meat darker than what I see at the supermarket?
True grass-fed beef naturally has a deeper, darker red colour than pale grain-fed beef. Additionally, our cryovac packaging temporarily darkens the meat by completely removing oxygen. Once you open the seal and let the meat "bloom" in the fresh air for 10 to 15 minutes, it will return to a bright cherry-red color.
What is the best way to thaw frozen cryovac beef?
The safest and best method is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw premium beef in the microwave or in hot water, as it will ruin the texture and begin cooking the edges. Beef can be thawed in its sealed packaging under cold running water.