Missing sheep worth almost $2m sparks police probe

Thousands of sheep worth almost $2 million have allegedly been stolen from a rural property, prompting a police appeal.

An investigation has been launched after about 5500 dorper ewes and rams went missing outside of Blackall in central west Queensland.

''Police estimate the value of the stolen dorper sheep at more than $1.7 million," a Queensland Police statement said.

The sheep - all fitted with National Livestock Identification System tags - were allegedly stolen between February and May, police said.

Dorper sheep can be recognised by their jet-black head and neck, in contrast to their white body.

Rural and Stock Crime Squad detectives are appealing for information, urging anyone who has seen sheep matching the description to come forward.

The sheep went missing from a property on the Blackall-Isisford Road, police said.

"Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who observed suspicious stock movements, livestock transport activity, or other unusual behaviour in the area," a Queensland Police statement said.

Livestock thefts were a "significant concern" for police and had a devastating impact on farmers and the community, Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Elliot said.

''Livestock theft can result in substantial financial losses and place additional pressure on farming businesses already facing challenging conditions,'' he said.

''Investigations can be complex, often spanning large geographical areas, which is why we work closely with producers, saleyards, transport operators and industry stakeholders to identify offenders and disrupt criminal activity."

It comes after more than $200,000 worth of livestock was stolen from a central Queensland property.

Owen and Brigid Price in August offered a $25,000 reward to catch the cattle thieves after more than 140 head of livestock disappeared from Greenlake, a property managed by their daughter Madeline, between April and May.

They have come up with the reward for information leading to the recovery of the cattle featuring 97 crossbred cows, many in calf to Wagyu bulls, along with 45 weaners.