UPDATE: At the age of 91, Lenny Peeck remains a vibrant symbol of resilience and dedication in the cattle industry, actively participating at the Wagga Saleyards. His incredible journey spans over 74 years, demonstrating that passion knows no age.
Peeck, a local legend from the Riverina, has been a familiar face at the saleyards since he was just 17. Despite the passing decades, he continues to engage with his lifelong love—buying and selling cattle. He recalls his early days of breaking horses and droving sheep, sharing captivating stories that reflect his deep connection to the land.
Born in Collingullie, Peeck’s journey began when he left school at 14 and took on various roles, including breaking in horses and working at local saleyards. “I was back in Wagga before they were,” he humorously recounts about his time at boarding school, showcasing his unyielding spirit for adventure.
From 1949, when he began his career at the Wagga saleyards, Peeck has seen remarkable changes in the industry. He recalls droving sheep with a team of dogs, navigating the challenges of the time without modern technology. “There were no phones then,” he said. “The dogs must have done a pretty good job.” His passion for animals and the outdoors has kept him active and involved in the local agricultural community.
In his prime, Peeck traveled extensively, driving cattle from Wagga to Sydney and beyond. He fondly remembers the strenuous journeys through the Kosciuszko Mountains, where he once spent two days caught in the snow while moving cattle. “It was cold, but I can’t remember losing any in the snow,” he reflected, highlighting his dedication to his work.
His career took a significant turn in 1952 when he began buying cattle for processors in Sydney, often accompanied by his late wife, Betty ‘Midge’ Peeck. They traveled across states, witnessing the ever-changing landscape of agriculture. “You bought every day. Wagga was Monday, Goulburn Tuesday, and so on,” he explained, painting a vivid picture of the hustle of cattle trading.
Recently, Peeck had a remarkable sale, witnessing one of his Charolais cows weigh in at 850kg, selling for an impressive 433c/kg, resulting in a whopping $3,680.50 return. “I think it would be nearly a record,” he said, reflecting his continued success even in retirement.
Now, Lenny Peeck can often be found at the saleyards, assisting his family with feeding and moving stock. With two sons, four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, he reflects proudly on his legacy. “I’m very happy with what I have done,” he stated, embodying a life well-lived.
This story of perseverance and passion resonates deeply, reminding us that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams. Lenny Peeck’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who dedicate their lives to agriculture, making a lasting impact on their communities.
As he continues to share his wealth of knowledge at the Wagga Saleyards, the community looks forward to many more years of Lenny Peeck’s invaluable contributions to the cattle trade.
