Cilla Pershouse combines her passion for the performing arts and farming in season two of the ABC series Muster Dogs.
However, it is her leading role as an isolated mum on the land that has struck a chord with viewers and prompted “heartfelt feedback“ from women, bringing Cilla to tears.
She said the challenges mothers faced on the land resonated deeply within communities, underlining the importance of sharing relatable experiences through media representation.
“One thing that has stood out is women reaching out … as mothers on the land who have said ’you told my story! Thank you for speaking of the struggles we have’.“
Muster Dogs, meanwhile, focuses on five Border Collie puppies and their owners, documenting the process of raising and training a champion muster dog.
While Cilla is no stranger to the limelight, the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music graduate said the experience of training a muster dog on a global stage presented fresh challenges.
“I’m a fourth-generation grazier on our farm in Ban Ban Springs, so training working stock dogs has always been a part of my family and what we do as people on the land,” Cilla said.
“I grew up with a love for training but with the whole world watching it can be pretty stressful, I’m not going to lie.
“There was also the added pressure of juggling having a very young family. Fortunately, I thrive on a challenge!”
Cilla Pershouse was raised in the North Burnett region and was home educated from Prep to Year 12.
She then studied a Bachelor of Music Theatre at CQUniversity and, after lead roles in Dracula’s Cabaret and the Australian Outback Spectacular on the Gold Coast, thought she would be on stage forever.
“I had these dreams of being away doing fabulous things with fabulous people forever,“ Cilla said.
“But, then you understand where you do and don’t fit in and understand what your ideals are and who you want to be as a parent and as a community member.
“And, that took me straight back to the farm.“
Motivated by the opportunity to share the everyday experiences of rural life, the mum of three said Muster Dogs resonated with her desire to bridge the gap between urban and rural communities.
“I wanted to be part of a program that was making inroads to build rapport between city and country cousins,“ Cilla said.
“Muster Dogs is known for its vivid portrayal of life on the land. They share beautiful stories that hero the work of our farming families and communities with the greater population.
“It shows in great detail, the challenges, triumphs and passion that people on the land have for their animals and industry.”
She added that her background in music theatre contributed to her enthusiasm to participate in the series.
“My background as an artist inspired me to want to take part and help share stories of the land,“ Cilla said.
“It was definitely an advantage when speaking to the camera and being interviewed through the process.”
Alongside her television appearance on Muster Dogs, Cilla also stars in Blue Gum Farm TV – a sing-along visual program and live theatre production.
The program teaches children and their families about animal care, growing food and healthy eating, the importance of ’paddock to plate’ farming processes and environmental responsibility.
Her work in writing, producing and performing in Blue Gum Farm TV was recognised by CQUniversity in 2016 when she was awarded Young Alumni Achiever of the Year.
“Being recognised is motivation to push through the tough (unpaid) times in creative arts to continue on the journey to success,” Cilla said.
“It is confirmation that there is value and quality in the program I am producing and that is the greatest reward of all.“
* Muster Dogs season two can be streamed for free on ABC iview: iview.abc.net.au/show/muster-dog
