High country calf sales: Meet nightwatchman Nobby McMahon
Meet the man who for more than 30 years has kept a watchful eye over the cattle at Omeo the night before the iconic high country calf sales, which are about to start.
DEEP in the high country, hours before the first day of mountain calf sales, a solitary figure patrols the saleyards as the township of Omeo sleeps.
For more than 30 years, Terrance ‘Nobby’ McMahon has quietly watched over yarded heifers and steers, bellowing into the night while awaiting sale.
In his role as nightwatchman at the iconic mountain calf sales, it’s Nobby’s job to ensure no harm comes to the cattle as they pass the night, waiting to be sold.
“Normally I’m drafting or taking delivery of the cattle, counting them in. It’s very important the vendor gets his right amount of cattle. Then we move them … and get them ready for the sale,” Nobby said.
“I do the same at Bairnsdale store sales. I’ve done so for many years. Tonight, I’ll be around where we unloaded them all today.”
It was a job until recently he shared with his cousin, known locally as Peewee.
Nobby, 66-years-old, spends the night before a sale – this week first at Omeo and then Ensay on Tuesday – ensuring both the security and comfort of the cattle.
And when it comes time to rest, Nobby unzips the canvas tray on his ute and climbs up into a makeshift home away from home.
He says he never feels cold, and couldn’t be comfier laying atop his mattress, falling asleep to the sound of the cattle in the night.
“I’ve bushed all my life. Years ago I used to use a swag. But you want a little more comfort as you get older,” Nobby says.
One year the weather was so hot, he took out a hose and sprayed the cattle, cooling them down in the night.
“I’ll never forget that,” Nobby says.
“I look forward to coming here every year. It’s a traditional thing. It’s something you look forward to, it’s a part of your life.”
And what about the nickname, Nobby?
The origin of said name is a secret, known only to close friends and Nobby himself.
It’s a secret as elusive and iconic as the man himself, quietly pacing the yards in the dark of night.
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