Every industry has them, but ours seems to breed them — the good bastards. You know the ones. The people who make a hard day’s graft not just bearable, but bloody enjoyable. The ones who bring the shed alive, keep everyone moving, and remind us why we love this mad job in the first place.

Let’s not beat around the bush—shed work is hard graft. From sun-up to sundown, it’s a high-pressure gig, and every role in the wool chain cops it in some way. It’s noisy, physical, bloody hot or freezing cold, and there’s always someone wanting something done five minutes ago. But here’s the real kicker: no one gets the job done alone.

We’re not always the best at talking, are we? Especially not when it’s about the stuff we can’t fix with a change of comb, a squirt of oil or a yarn at smoko.

Life in the shearing shed is hard yakka. It’s early mornings, long days, heavy lifting, and mental focus from go to whoa. Whether you’re on the handpiece, handling wool, pressing, penning up, managing the teams or the farm — the work takes a toll. That’s why looking after your health and well-being isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.Here are five practical ways to stay strong in the shed, from start to finish.