Daily Chores

At 4.30a.m. cattle dogs stir and begin to bark
Chris off to prep breakfast whilst it’s still dark.
The crew mosey down under stars that still shine
Too early for bird song just the lowing of bovines.

Brekky & hot coffee, then choppers take to the skies
Horses bridled & saddled all before the sun does rise.
Their tasks include a tour of the penned herd to check
For drafting of the weaners or if sick, vaccines to inject.

Bulls held in crushers for sperm to be counted,
If it’s not up to standard they will be deported
Along with the others that have made ideal weight.
Mickeys and heifers are sorted via different gates.

Food lots to be filled and replacements of lick
Steers to be de horned but watch out for kicks.
Ears to be tagged, hides marked with a brand
Roaming herds mustered over arid, dusty land.

‘Smoko’ is at 9.30 a.m. equivalent to an early brunch
Packable saddle snacks are grabbed for a late lunch.
Litres of water plus hydralytes you’ll quickly learn
Are essential as dehydration is a very real concern.

Working in the yards there’s no place dirt will miss
Getting touched by what I call the ‘Kimberley kiss’.
It finds every crevice from ears to between the toes
Plus the pungent cattle odour wafts up your nose.

Living out on camp is usually a simple affair
Cooking fire, rolled out swags in the open air.
Fencing or mustering in searing heat and dust
Grateful if the shower isn’t tainted with rust.Read more