Josh Castle
Donors Hill Station
Josh Castle, headstockman at Donors Hill Station, QLD Gulf, was ten years younger when he bought a Kent Hobble Belt at Alroy Downs Station, NT, in 2002. Since then, the belt has literally taken a beating during work at several Stanbroke Cattle Stations. Two years ago, Josh bought a new Kent Hobble Belt, but admits, “I haven’t even used it yet.” He gives the original belt a shake, “This one still does the job. Every muster we go on, I wear it.”
Josh began work at Davenport Downs, QLD at the age of fifteen, and has seen a lot of changes in thirteen years.
“Back then we’d camp out for up to four months straight; now we drive out maybe sixty kilometres, and come home every night. In 1998, we walked the horses everywhere at Davenport.” It‘s now common practice to transport horses by gooseneck to wherever they‘re needed. Josh has also experienced personal changes; from that of a single young ringer to married head stockman. Josh and his wife Malissa are very happy and proud parents of beautiful baby Emily (born February 2011), who is definitely a light in Josh and Malissa’s life.
Talking about his involvement in the cattle industry, Josh remains optimistic and enthusiastic. “I spend some long days in the saddle….. I love it.” Maybe soon, the new Hobble Belt might replace the old one in a muster. CONCLUSION… Some people sure love their favourite ol’ gear!