Lock’s Peter “Pedro” Beard is at home on his header, but aside from tending to the crops he is well known among racing circles as the Lock Racing Club president.
What is the best thing about volunteering as Lock Racing Club president?
A legacy was set up by our predecessors and it has been a privilege to continue that on and build upon it, improving facilities and keeping the Lock Races going for the enjoyment of the wider Eyre Peninsula Racing community and its supporters.
What is the best thing about working on your farm?
I am the third generation to live where I live and work on the farm, and proud to see my oldest son keen to continue on. Although it’s hard work and can be very challenging, the lifestyle is good. We farmers are custodians of the land who provide food for the world. There’s a simple and honest integrity in it.
What is the best thing about living and working on Eyre Peninsula?
I have lived on Eyre Peninsula for most of my life, only spending a few years away at school and then wool classing. The people are friendly on Eyre Peninsula. Everyone seems to know one another or be connected somehow. In times of crisis, we pull together to help each other out.
What three things would you take if you and the family were deserted on an island?
The sensible answer would be food source, water, clothing and shelter. I love my beer (Southwark, of course!) and a fishing line would be pretty handy!
Do you prefer summer or winter and why?
As a farmer, I know we need both. I love the weather, being by the beach and fishing in the summer. In winter, I love the rain and football, of course! I don’t like the cold.
What is the most unique/interesting problem that has been presented to you at work?
I don’t know if this is unique or interesting, but it is a constant challenge to survive and thrive as a farmer.
What time does your alarm go off and how does your typical morning unfold?
I don’t have an alarm. Typically, I get up and always have a coffee. I then do some stretching exercises to help with my flexibility before breakfast. After that, I go and do whatever relevant jobs need to be done. I’m pretty much retired since having two hips and two shoulders replaced.
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
Chris Hemsworth – a good Aussie bloke.
What is your idea of a perfect weekend on Eyre Peninsula?
I’d be by the beach or in the boat fishing at Streaky Bay with the family and friends.
Favourite place to eat on Eyre Peninsula?
The Boston Hotel, Takeaway from The Fresh Fish Place, Pizza from Shannon’s Pizza Bar.
Last movie or show you streamed or saw and was it any good?
‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ and ‘Bullet Train’. Yes, I enjoyed them both and had a laugh.
Favourite musician?
I have a multitude on my playlist, to name a few: Aussie Crawl, AC/DC, Coldplay, The Killers, The Screaming Jets, Dire Straits, INXS, The Foo Fighters.
If you could do someone else’s job on Eyre Peninsula or Lock for one day, what would you be doing?
Fishing. I definitely wouldn’t be shearing anyway.
