I’d firstly like to thank you all for being here today,
But as a local ringer, I would like to have a say,
On how I see the muster, and where we go from here.
For I know we have a good strong herd, so let’s not lose a steer.
The mob is grazing peacefully, and look relaxed of course
See, we have about 2000, and it’s hard work with one horse,
Well, to ride across the ranges is really not that hard
But to bring them all together, and put them in the yard?
And then we’ll need to sort them up, some young ones still aren’t branded,
they all need running through the dip, can’t do that single handed.
Three-day sickness is a problem, so they all need vaccinations.
We need to watch for other wogs, the slightest indications.
For I can see some wonky knees, there could be appendicitis.
And when we bring the breeders through, there’s sure to be mastitis!
You can tell just by the look of them, there must be other cases,
But we can’t keep them all locked up- they’re used to open spaces.
Our Sarah’s giving all she’s got to hold the mob in tight,
But a little COVID cluster, that would really cause a fright!
And young Isaac could be handy, a real likely looking pup,
But it’s hard to work the head bail, and to keep the back yards up!
And we appreciate the others who help out on the day,
But to really get to know the herd, we’d like to see you stay.
For there’s nothing more rewarding than to watch the weaners grow,
And when you open wide the gates they move out, nice and slow.
The calving is important too, I am sure you’ll understand
We need the breeders quite relaxed; some heifers need a hand.
And then of course, the older ones to which I can relate,
We’d like to know the ‘Ringers hand’, that guides us out the gate!
And so, by now you’ll plainly see, there’s still a lot to do
And if we are to get results, it’s up to me and you,
For Glencore’s topped the trough up, to help us on the way,
4 years to find 4 doctors who really want to stay.
To pay them more to get them here, we know that’s not enough,
For everybody needs a “mate”, to help when things get tough.
We also know that life goes on, some won’t be on their own,
So, partners, kids must all enjoy, to call our Clermont home.
And we know it’s not just doctors, that this herd wants to know,
There’s Nurses, Teachers, Physios, and so the list will grow.
We must appreciate their skills, help out along the way,
This video, the web site, –yes, the muster starts today!
Poem submitted by John Burnett
