Hoof Trim Chute at Tasmanian Stockyard

Mud rests on the base of a galvanized metal chute standing on a stockyard loading ramp in late spring Tasmania. One layer of straw spreads across the wet ground, against the rusted steel and bright yellow tagged plastic markers. Low-hanging clouds press down from a grey sky, silhouetting the equipment against the fading evening light. The metal surfaces reflect the dull ambient glow while shadows stretch long across the uneven terrain. A plastic tag hangs loosely from a chain, catching the last light before the first round of trimming begins. The edge of the chute rests firmly in the muddied earth.