Despite the increase to Indonesia, total cattle exports to all markets declined 6pc on the same period last year, to 70,163 head, with Saudi Arabia, China, Pakistan and Japan the only other markets to receive significant numbers, according to Meat and Livestock Australia.

Robust demand for Australian cattle, underpinned by comparatively strong economic conditions throughout 2009, has seen Indonesia dominate Australian shipments during the first 10 months of 2009, taking 81pc of all cattle loaded, at 607,217 head.

For the 2008 calendar year, Indonesia received 74pc of all Australian cattle shipped, at 644,859 head – a record that looks certain to be broken with two months of 2009 remaining.

With demand for Australian cattle expected to be maintained, if not strengthen for 2010, the available supply of cattle may be a constraint on shipments, particularly out of northern Queensland and the NT.

Severe drought in 2008, followed by widespread flooding in early 2009 has seen cattle numbers across the traditional supply region reportedly much lower than in previous years, resulting in exporters searching further a field for suitable cattle.

Of the other markets in October, Saudi Arabia was Australia’s second largest destination, with 3,998 head, while China and Japan recorded 2,990 head and 1,500 head, respectively.

Pakistan also registered its first shipments of Australian cattle for 2009, with 1,704 head.