Shearers & Some Sheds by John Arthur Barry

Shearing throughout Australia will soon be in full swing, and already in some districts early sheds are "cut out, " and have relapsed into their usual condition of dormant quiet, relieved only by an occasional "drafting match, " or a visit from a party of swagmen seeking shelter in the deserted huts. But during next month, in the majority of sheds, will still be heard the incessant whirr and drone of the machines as the golden fleece is peeled off the animals' bodies by the sturdy toilers, whose harvest, as well as that of the sheepowners, the present season provides. With varying localities so does the work differ in its essential features. In the more settled districts of the Eastern Division, where the flocks are comparatively small, there is seldom or never any trouble. Year by year the same procedure obtains; the work is carried on without trouble; all things run smoothly. Often the same sure hands appear on the board and take their old stands, remaining until the last "cobbler" disappears and the bell sounds for the last time. In such sheds there is generally a good understanding between employer and employee. The former is personally acquainted with most of his men; they are, indeed, often themselves small holders in the neighbourhood. They know his price, the "cut" he requires, and they strive to give the satisfaction that shall ensure another engagement. This type of shearer is essentially a good one, reliable, steady, an expert worker; a family man, as a rule, who has a home and interests in the district. About him there is nothing flash or rowdy; there is no gambling in the hut o' nights; no "flutters" with his "prads" on Sundays. He wants his hard-earned money to improve his holding, to purchase some fresh stock, to clothe and feed the "missus an' the kids." Lucky the sheepgrower who can fill his board with shearers of this class; he may depend on getting his wool off well and quickly and to the accompaniment of none of those "rows" which so often mark the progress of shearing in many sheds where owners are not so fortunate in their men.