From Orchards to Outback. Tracey Friday

purpose as she handed them to him whenever he maintained the tractors and other farm equipment. They were fun times and Maggie often reminisced about the precious time they spent together as he told her endless stories of his childhood antics as they worked.

      Years later she knew she had made the right decision to change career when she sought out the Squire, who owned the Estate, to ask him his advice and if he would be prepared to take her on as an apprentice mechanic. He thought it was a splendid idea and knew that her father would have approved. Maggie subsequently quit her secretarial job in town to earn her mechanical qualification and from then on, she had never looked back.

      Just like Primrose Farm Estate, there was always something that required repairing, building or cleaning on McKinnley Station and although it was often hard work it was pleasantly rewarding. Maggie was happy and felt she was achieving so much.

      Unbeknown to her, Jack watched her from a distance. He liked the way she was with people and her willingness to learn and to teach.

      Despite Maggie being a little on edge regarding payback from Sylvia, nothing untoward had yet occurred and Sylvia seemed to be keeping her distance. Although there were instances she couldn’t avoid such as meal times and when they happened to leave their rooms at the same time. Maggie tried to make conversation but Sylvia blanked her every time.

      Maggie walked over to join the others who were sitting on the corral fence watching Jack where he was on horseback practising lassoing a calf for the forthcoming rodeo. Even though McKinnley Station was a sheep Station they also had a few head of cattle. Maggie was very excited to attend her first big event.

      “Hi Sylvia,” greeted Maggie, as she approached the fence knowing that she would be either greeted with a grunt or that Sylvia would move away. When Sylvia didn’t move she thought, so far, so good, she hasn’t run for the hills just yet.