UPDATE: Lenny Peeck, a beloved figure in the cattle trading community, continues to inspire at the age of 91 as he reflects on his remarkable journey. Just announced, Peeck has been a staple at the Wagga Saleyards since he was 17, where his passion for buying and selling cattle remains undiminished.
Peeck’s story begins in the Riverina, where he was born and raised. He recalls leaving school at 14, diving into a life of breaking horses and droving cattle. “I was back in Wagga before they were,” he said, reminiscing about his early days at boarding school.
The urgency of his narrative highlights the dramatic changes in the cattle industry over the decades. No smartphones or modern technology existed when he started working at the Wagga Saleyards around 1949. “There were no phones then,” he stated, recalling his days of herding sheep with a team of dogs. “I don’t know how I didn’t get them all boxed.” His experiences paint a vivid picture of hard work and dedication that resonates with many.
Peeck’s tenacity saw him travel extensively, including treks through the Kosciuszko Mountains, where he faced harsh winter conditions. “We put the cattle in the snow first to make a track for the sheep,” he described, emphasizing the grit required in his profession. “I think we were two or three days in the snow; God, it was cold.”
In 1952, he began purchasing cattle for various processors in Sydney. “You bought every day,” he explained. “Wagga was Monday, Goulburn Tuesday, Yass Wednesday, Cootamundra Thursday, and Gundagai Friday.” The stark contrast between past and present cattle prices was evident in his reflections. “Cattle weren’t sold by weight then; they were sold per head.”
After retiring at 80, Peeck still finds joy in helping his family with their cattle business. His latest sale included a remarkable 850 kg Charolais cow, which fetched 433c/kg, bringing in an impressive $3,680.50. “I think it would be nearly a record,” he noted, demonstrating that his expertise remains sharp.
Today, Lenny Peeck is often seen at the Wagga Saleyards, where he sits with his dogs, ready to lend a hand to his family. As he reflects on his life filled with achievements, he shares, “I’m very happy with what I have done. I’m pretty pleased with it all.”
For those in the cattle industry and beyond, Peeck’s story serves as an enduring testament to resilience, dedication, and a lifelong love for one’s craft. As he continues to engage with the community, his journey reminds us all of the importance of perseverance and passion in the face of changing times.
