Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemen’s Association having annual get together at Cressy

As the mountain cattlemen of old will attest, working cattle in the high country has always demanded exceptional teamwork, skill and trust between rider, horse, dog and fellow cattlemen.

At Cressy farm Billopp next weekend, these qualities will be emulated when the Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemen’s Association’s Annual Get Together returns to a place where cattlemen have traditionally gathered and worked for its 40th anniversary.

Long-time TMCA member, organiser and competitor Tracey Boon said that cattle handling will be showcased as part of the huge programme of equestrian and novelty competitions. 

And for the first time there will be no handy pen to contain the mob – it’s back to old school methods.

“In the rugged mountain country, whenever a mob needed to be checked, sorted, split, or when an injured or sick beast had to be removed or bulls cut out from the herd the task was never simple,” Tracey said.

“With no access to permanent yards, trucks, or loading ramps across much of the high country grazing plains, the mountain cattlemen developed their own systems of stock handling. 

“These men created what became known as a ‘live yard’ - a working yard formed entirely by horses and riders. 

“Using pressure, positioning, and precise horsemanship, cattle were quietly controlled, held, and individual beasts cut out and moved where required.”

Like their forebears, riders taking part in the cattle handling will have to demonstrate a deep understanding of cattle behaviour, calm control under pressure and absolute trust in both their horse and fellow riders. 

By replicating this traditional method, the TMCA aims to return to these grassroots practices and honour the skills that defined the mountain cattlemen. 

The Green family at Billopp will host the much-loved three-day event, which starts on January 30 and features many crowd-favourite competitions including Billy Can races, Handy Stock Horse events, poetry, whipcracking, games and a full cattlemen’s championship program. 

Camping will be available on site, with evening entertainment provided by Alex Wadley and Loui Moran on the Friday and Saturday evening. 

A Sunday trail ride offering stunning 360-degree views of the northern midlands has been mapped out and is bound to impress.

TMCA president Jess Whatley said that the championship contenders are keen to try out the new cattle handling feature event. 

“With nearly 30 riders in the senior and junior championship we have a full team,” she said.

“Our striplings event has a strong field of competitors and riders will tackle a course within the arena involving obstacles and challenges traditional to the Cattlemen Association - these kids will one day step up into the championship event and join the big field.”

Weekend admission to the Get Together is $75, children 10-16 $30, U10 free. Family pass $200.

Single day passes are $25 for adults and $10 for children. U10 free.

For more information go to: www.tmca.net.au