Regarding Christmas gifts, we've all received our fair share of quirky presents. From the practical to the downright peculiar, the festive season never fails to surprise us with the variety of gifts exchanged. But one Aussie dad may have just raised the bar for unconventional gifting, and it's sparked quite the conversation among our Seniors Discount Club members.


Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to find a whole cow and pig ready for the freezer, gifted to you by a family member. That's precisely what happened to a group of friends and their families when one Australian dad decided to forego the traditional gift-giving route and instead opted for something more... substantial.


The father's rationale behind this meaty present is both thoughtful and practical. He believes in giving his children and their friends something they truly need - food for the year - rather than something that might be wanted but not essential. This tradition, which he started a few years ago, has been met with appreciation and a desire to continue passing it down through generations.


On social media, reactions to this unique tradition have been mixed, with many applauding the practicality and brilliance of the gift. 'This is a fantastic tradition!' exclaimed one supporter, while another mused, 'What a fantastic gift. This way of gifting should be employed today. It has got me thinking.'

Interestingly, this isn't an isolated case. Some families have received portions of livestock as gifts for years, suggesting that this practice might be more common than we think.

However, only some are convinced. Concerns have been raised about the logistics of storing such a large quantity of meat. Questions like 'How big is your freezer?' and 'How long are you meant to freeze meat for?' highlight the practical considerations of accepting a gift of this magnitude.


For those worried about the safety of consuming meat that's been frozen for an extended period, a meat science graduate offers some reassurance. She advises that its smell is the key to determining if meat has spoiled. A 'tangy and sour' scent indicates that meat is no longer safe to eat, although this can be slightly different for vacuum-sealed cuts, which may initially smell sour but freshen up after being exposed to air for a few minutes.

So, is this the 'perfect' Christmas gift? It certainly depends on who you ask. It could be a godsend for those who value practicality and have the means to store such a gift. But for others, managing and consuming that much meat might be overwhelming.

Before gifting a cow or pig this Christmas, consider the recipient's lifestyle, storage capabilities, and dietary preferences. It's also worth considering the ethical and environmental implications of such a gift, as these are increasingly important factors for many people when consuming meat.


We love hearing about unique traditions and how families celebrate the holidays at the Seniors Discount Club. Whether you're for or against gifting livestock, it's certainly a conversation starter and a reminder that the spirit of giving comes in many forms.
What's the most unusual gift you've ever received or given for Christmas? Would you consider giving the gift of a cow or pig to someone special in your life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – we'd love to hear from you!