A UNIQUE outback cattle station is welcoming tourists back in their droves after several months of upheaval due to COVID-19.
Michael and Lynda Bethel's Texas Longhorn Tours at Leahton Park, 10km from Charters Towers, were forced to abruptly pull the pin on their popular tours at the height of restrictions.
But as soon as they eased - and with a COVID-Safe plan in place - Mr Bethel said Queenslanders had been embracing the tours.
"The thing Lynda and I are grateful for is the support of Queenslanders, we've been running tours every day and a few days we've been fully booked with people on standby," Mr Bethel said.
"This is our 12th year and we've relied entirely on word of mouth and goodwill.
"We wanted to open as soon as we could to support the wider community and we feel grateful that support has been reciprocated."
Mr Bethel said it was important to spread the word that not only Charters Towers, but Queensland was now back open for business.
The couple used their downtime to upgrade their outdoor function area which is now available for weddings or other gatherings.
While Texas Longhorns are the star attraction, the property is also home to an array of breeds including African Watusi, Scottish Highland, Indian Gyr cattle, Asian Water Buffalo and American Bison.
"It's an experience, it's not just to look at the cattle but to present what we do in an interesting and fun way.
"The history of the Texas Longhorn is important, we have a chuckwagon we use on wagon day that was made in Texas and include a tour of the saddle shop, and Lynda's famous tour of the love shack (where AI takes place)."
Mr Bethel said despite their incredible long horns, the cattle were as easy to handle as any with their placid temperament.
"Polled animals need not apply. I've been in cattle all my life and the Longhorns have such a really nice, even temperament, they are easy to handle."
Tours are available seven days a week. To book, visit https://texaslonghorn.com.au/ or call 0474 561 122.
