Trainee shearers set clippers flying

Ten Rodney College students had the chance last month to try their hands at shearing, thanks to a four-day practical course at Don Petrie’s Whangaripo Valley farm.

On the first day of the course, the students, aged 15-17, had their first attempt at shearing sheep, under the watchful eyes of tutors from Tectra – an NZQA accredited provider of training to the wool industry. The participants earned credits towards a national qualification, as well as a valuable insight into what the job entails.

“There’s good money in shearing, with the chance to earn upwards of $1000 a week,” Matthew Oldfield said.

Matthew started shearing 18 years ago, and was at the Petrie woolshed to refresh his skills and pass on some tips.
Farm owner Don Petrie was thrilled to have the local students attend the course.
“It’s the first time that we’ve had such involvement with Rodney College and I hope it will continue,” he said.

The only girl on the course was Year 11 student June Marshall, from Oruawhero. She said she enjoyed the experience and would be open to a career working with sheep.

“I like animals and it could be a good lifestyle,” she said.
Gateway coordinator Colleen Wright said that she hopes Rodney students would be regular participants in such courses, which provided a valuable opportunity to experience farm career.

Top: Rodney College student Brian Jenkins gets some advice from experienced shearer Adam Cook, from Hokianga.

Middle: June Marshall and Tony Clutterbuck

Bottom: Sam Currey puts theory into practise during the workshop