In early 2020, I took a job mulching city parks in Canberra during the dead of winter—a role that would ultimately change my perspective on manual labor and working with family. After leaving my HR job, I found myself needing money and a reason to leave my mother's house. My brother's landscaping business, which had won a tender to mulch parks across Canberra, offered me a lifeline. Little did I know, this experience would teach me invaluable lessons about hard work, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
The Unexpected Journey into Landscaping
When I offered my brother my landscaping CV—which included mowing Mum's lawn and trimming the occasional hedge—I was hired on the spot. I joined a ragtag team of an ex-sports physio, a former Canberra Raiders rugby player, and a former plasterer. While most of Canberra worked from home during Covid lockdowns, we were sent out to empty parks, armed with rakes and a skid steer loader. Every morning at 5am, we piled into a filthy Toyota HiLux and drove to our designated park for the day.
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A Typical Day Mulching City Parks
Our routine was simple: a truck would dump a pile of mulch in the park, my brother would drive the loader to move mulch to the base of trees, and we'd spread it evenly with rakes. Rinse and repeat. The physical toll was immediate—sore muscles, blistered hands, and a newfound appreciation for those who do manual labor daily. But beyond the physical challenge, I learned about teamwork, resilience, and the value of a hard day's work.
Lessons Learned from Manual Labor
Working in the dead of winter, often in freezing temperatures and rain, taught me that manual labor is far from easy. It requires stamina, focus, and a certain grit that I wasn't sure I possessed. I quickly realized I was not cut out for this type of work long-term, but the experience humbled me and gave me a deeper respect for those who make a living through physical labor.
The Challenges of Working with Family
Working with my brother added another layer of complexity. While we had a shared goal, our working styles often clashed. He expected efficiency and precision; I was just trying to keep up. There were tense moments, but ultimately, we learned to communicate better and appreciate each other's strengths. It's a dynamic that many family businesses face, and it's not for the faint of heart.
Comparing Manual Labor vs. Office Work
Transitioning from HR to landscaping was a shock to the system. Here's a quick comparison of the two worlds:
| Aspect | Manual Labor (Landscaping) | Office Work (HR) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Demand | High—constant movement, lifting, raking | Low—sitting at a desk, typing |
| Work Environment | Outdoors, exposed to elements | Indoors, climate-controlled |
| Schedule | Early mornings, weather-dependent | Standard 9-5, predictable |
| Social Interaction | Small team, close quarters | Large office, varied interactions |
| Job Security | Project-based, seasonal | Generally stable |
Key Takeaways from My Winter Mulching Job
- Manual labor is physically demanding and requires mental toughness.
- Working with family can be rewarding but requires clear communication.
- Stepping out of your comfort zone leads to personal growth.
- Every job teaches you something about yourself and others.
- Respect all workers—no job is easy.
FAQ
What is it like to mulch city parks in winter?
What is it like to mulch city parks in winter?
It's cold, physically exhausting, and often repetitive. You start at 5am, work in freezing conditions, and spend hours raking mulch. But it builds character and camaraderie.
How did this job change your perspective?
It made me appreciate the hard work of manual laborers and taught me that I prefer office work. It also showed me the importance of family support and communication.
Would you recommend working with family?
It depends on your relationship and boundaries. It can work if you communicate openly and respect each other's roles. Otherwise, it can strain relationships.
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