Ngukurr’s new wave of cattle musterers

Ngukurr cattle drive, NT.

Indigenous Australians were once the backbone of the cattle industry. Now, in a bold move aimed at getting a new generation of ringers on board, the community of Ngukurr has re-joined the pastoral game.

As part of their Rural Operations studies, 10 students from Ngukurr School in the Northern Territory have driven around 60 head of cattle 60 kilometres from Big River Station to their remote community.

Toby Gorringe, who is employed by Ngukurr School Council to deliver the training, says students have learnt skills like workplace communication, occupational health and safety, mustering and caring for equipment. But he says the most important outcomes are self-development and a greater willingness to take responsibility.

“The program we’re doing teaches these kids more about themselves,” Gorringe says. “Once they learn about themselves and to respect other people and their gear they can go into all kinds of industries.”

Gorringe believes there are many possibilities for Ngukurr. He hopes that programs like this one will help generate skilled and trained locals who can work on country no matter what the job.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, a ringer can learn how to do anything,” he says.

“Stockmen are pretty adaptable: they can go into the mines or drive a grader or front-end loader and pick it up quite quickly.

“You’ve got to start somewhere. These kids are good at horse riding so why not start there?”

For students, the program has already inspired self-belief.

“I like my school because we have lots of fun,” says Mikaele Lansen. “I’m learning to trot and canter.

“My hand got sore from turning the horse with the reins but we have all been good. I’m going to be a stock girl.”

Whatever occupation the students end up in, the experience is one they will never forget.