The May ride for the Tambo Upper
Trail Riding Club had a good attendance of 18 riders.
The eagerness of riders was a pleasant surprise for organisers who had only confirmed earlier in the morning to continue despite the persistent rain. Thankfully just as the horses were saddled the rain cleared to a cloudy and cold, but dry day.
Jackie Whiting led the way on her bay mare Autie from her property adjoining the Colquhoun Forest in Swan Reach.
The group made their way along single tracks and bush with some short steep gullies and a short section of gravel road. A couple of hours were travelled in the morning with some challenging moments due to the slippery conditions underfoot. The riders place a lot of trust in their horses to cope with the terrain and it reaped rewards with all safely negotiating the trail.
Simone Gibbs attended her first club ride on her lovely gelding Nuggett. Likewise, Gaylene Lloyd on her Standardbred Lew. Both combinations did a great job and will be back for future club rides.
After a break for lunch the group remounted and headed off on the return trip. The terrain was easier and the riders were able to spread out and chatter along the way.
On returning to the floats the horses were tended to before the riders enjoyed a warming afternoon tea. All who participated commented on how well organised the day was and how much they enjoyed exploring the diverse and unique bush led so capably by Jackie.
The next ride for the club will be led by Gill Renshaw on Sunday, June 15. Gill lives locally in the area and can be found out riding these tracks most days.
The ride will leave from the corner of Pipe Dump Road and Brooks Road, Bruthen. The route will include some hill work so horses will need a reasonable level of fitness. However, breaks will be taken for horses as necessary. There will be a variety of terrain including single tracks, gullies, and sections of bush.
A compulsory unmounted muster will be held at 9.45am. Participants should arrive early enough to saddle up prior the muster. Ride out time will be 10am sharp with a saddlebag lunch and return to the floats by 2.30pm. Participants should be aware of the weather conditions and consult
club communications for any changes to the ride.
To reach the starting point travel north through Bruthen on the Great Alpine Road. Go past the Bruthen cemetery and then look for the next left turn, McLeans Road. Do not stop at the walking trails carpark. Continue straight ahead on Pipe Dump Road to the intersection with Brooks Road.
Tambo rides are held on the third Sunday of every month and are suitable for most standards. Visitors are welcome and juniors are also encouraged but must be accompanied by a guardian and able to ride independently.
For more information contact Caroline Driscoll or Sue Cullinan.
