Like a verse from Banjo Patterson

 There was movement at the Station (Coonawarra), for the word had passed around that the posse from Bairnsdale had saddled up. All the tried and noted riders from Clontarf near and far, had gathered at the station overnight. Because Clontarf boys love hard riding and the stock horses sniff the battle with delight. No better horseman had held the reins than the boys from Clontarf town.

We arrived early at Coonawarra Station to meet our Stockmen Ronnie and Anne who would guide us on our trek. After a brief chat it was time for the boys to meet their new companions. With horse’s names like Nippy, Little Joe, Aromas, Byson and Lightening the journey ahead would be fast and furious so each boy took time to get to know their noble steeds. Some nervous faces were soon replaced with wide smiles as everyone became more comfortable aboard their noble steed. With hearts pumping and nostrils flared, and that was just the boys, we set off on our Clontarf adventure

We set out for our ride from Coonawarra just after lunch when some shouted to Kai Richards it was alright to breathe aboard your steed, it makes the journey easier and will put you at ease. Laughter followed from the posse as we made our way out of the gates at Coonawarra. Before we knew it we were in the beautiful Alpine country and the boys were gaining more and more confidence on their mounts.

As the journey continued up and down the steep terrain the boys were becoming one with their horses. Through rivers and creeks, steep climbs up rocky mountain sides and even steeper decants you could see each boy gaining more confidence and enjoyment. Even boys who were a little less confident at first were finding their feet and as the Man From Snowy River said" they'll be with them when the whips are cracking at the end."

We made camp by late afternoon at the Barn. Everyone took responsibility for their horse by removing their saddles, bridles and blankets. Next came a well earned brush down for our steeds and even more deserved roll and run through the adjacent paddock.

Next on the agenda was to get the camp fires burning and stoke the wood fired pizza oven for dinner. Pizza entree and a magnificent roast to follow were on the menu. All the boys chipped in with the preparation and clean up. Stories of great horsemanship started to flow around the fire, just like great fishing stories like the one that got away. The pool table and darts board were getting a good going over, as was the guitar around the camp fire.

By late night everyone hit the sack for a well earned sleep. Another early start was planned for tomorrow for the ride back. Again the team work was first class with the bacon and egg brekkie. Next it was time to get our mounts ready for the day ahead. A slightly easier ride but none the less enjoyable and in the words of Banjo Patterson: " And stockmen tell the story of the Boys from Clontarf's ride"

GIDDEE UP

Brendan HART

BUZZ