TWO NT men who have made a living from camels are pleased to see a growing interest in camel milk in the past few years.
Camels Australia owner Neil Waters, Stuarts Well, about 90 kilometres from Alice Springs, said many had started to see the animal in a different light.
He said he was disappointed in the decision to cull the animals, saying it was a lost opportunity.
"There could have been employment (opportunities) in catching camels, trucking them and in the abattoirs," he said.
He said they also had potential as a source of protein.
He rejected the idea that camels were a pest.
"If you've got a large enough area to wander through they are actually good for the country," Neil said.
"They co-exist well with cattle and they should be able to co-exist with other animals."
Ian Conway, Kings Creek Station, 300km south-west of Alice Springs, said camels had supported him for about 40 years.
He has noticed a rise in interest in camel milk.
The station is supplying the animals to a new dairy in Vic, and has orders from other parts of the country.
"People are starting to realise the value in camels," Ian said.
"Camels are a bonus for this island."
He was also opposed to culling.
"There is no sense in shooting animals that have a value," Ian said.
"Camels always conjure up a feeling of adventure."
Elizabeth Anderson
Stock Journal's magazine editor.
Stock Journal's magazine editor.
