Definition of "rousie"

The aim of the rouser is eventually to become a shearer via the medium of the learner’s pen, and in fact the rousie is really an apprentice shearer; but there is certainly a great gulf between the accomplished prince of the board and the miserable rouseabout in the strange new world of his first shed.

1967, Graham Jenkin, Two Years on Bardunyah Station: Being an Account of the Experiences of a Jackaroo, Together with Some Poems, etc., Seacombe Heights, South Australia: Pitjantjara Publishers, page 66

“Mind you,” Joe had said to Kerewin, “that’s the first time he’s ever sat still long enough for me to do a decent job. Piri tried to hold him once, and got bitten for his trouble. The other times after Hana died,” he sighed, “sheesh, all those other times . . there’s only been me here eh, which means I’ve had to give him a belting so he’ll do as he’s told . . you ever try shearing sheep? Unwilling sheep?” “I’ve worked as rousie, never shearer, but I’ve seen them carry on.”

1983, Keri Hulme, The Bone People, Baton Rouge, La., London: Louisiana State University Press, published 1985

Kate, their young rousie, threw the fleece up and over the table.

2011, Fiona Palmer, Heart of Gold, Michael Joseph