Revival work now visible at Baiyer cattle ranch

Livestock Development Corporation managing director Terry Koim in a dialogue with a local at Baiyer during groundworks around the perimeter recently *(Image: Supplied)*

The Baiyer River Cattle Ranch was officially launched earlier this month, but today real work is now taking place on the ground.

After more than 30 years of neglect, the focus has shifted to reclaiming state land and rebuilding the ranch step by step.

Although the rehabilitation project was launched on February 2, 2026, activity is now picking up at the ranch in Western Highlands Province.

The first phase of work is focused on recouping and securing state-owned land and constructing staff houses to prepare for full operations. The ranch, which covers more than 4,700 hectares across land portions 156 and 157 in the Dei and Mul Baiyer electorates, had remained idle for over three decades.

Livestock Development Corporation Managing Director Terry Koim says the project is more than just restoring old buildings.

“This redevelopment is more than a restoration effort,” Koim said. “It is a strategic investment that has the potential to reshape livestock production across the Upper Highlands.”

Koim said once the ranch is fully operational, it is expected to supply breeder cattle and weaners to neighbouring provinces including Jiwaka, Enga, Eastern Highlands and Hela.

The revival of the ranch was first pushed in 2020 by former Livestock Minister John Simon, who visited the abandoned site and called for its restoration.

Progress of LDC residential complex at Tiaba, Central. A similar housing unit will be built for staff at Baiyer Station as works progresses (Image: Supplied)

Since then, the State completed boundary re-identification surveys, registered a new land survey plan, and carried out community awareness to ensure settlers understood that the land belongs to the State.

The land reclamation program was completed in March 2025, clearing the way for redevelopment to begin.

According to Koim, the project will roll out in two phases with first segment set to develop nearly 2,000 hectares up to the Baiyer River during the first half of 2026. The second phase will expand across the river to complete the ranch’s full development.

Initial works now include erecting a perimeter fence, constructing stockyards, and building staff houses.

Baiyer LLG President Kipi Lamowa has welcomed the progress and called on the community to support the work as well as the district and provincial governments.

“I am happy that work is now underway,” Lamowa said. “I call on my people to cooperate and participate as development continues on this important national asset.”

The official launch earlier this month was held at Baiyer District Station and was described as historic, although attendance was small.

With groundwork now clearly visible, the long-silent Baiyer River Cattle Ranch is slowly reclaiming its place as a key livestock centre for Papua New Guinea’s agricultural future.