Beaudesert Shire Trail Horse Riding Club members past and present caught up on old times when the group celebrated its 45th anniversary recently.
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About 50 people from near and far celebrated at the Veresdale Hotel on 15 October, travelling from as far as Childers and Bribie Island to catch up with those from Beaudesert and surrounds.
The group, one of the longest standing trail riding clubs in Queensland, started in 1977 and people such as retired Major Neville Noakes from Canungra, the recently deceased Morrie Holland, Di Fraser, Jim Winfield and the late Judy Winfield were heavily involved.
It currently has 56 members ranging in age from 3 years old to three ladies in their 80s and the club president is Lorane McIntosh.
Among current members at the celebrations were several who have been in the club the longest, including Sheila Venz, ride coordinator Karen Richter and treasurer Ron Bowden.
Karen said there was a lot to reminisce about.
“We had members get up and recall rides from the past and great memories – they’ve always been a good crowd and we’ve always got along really well – it’s special,” she said.
“And we were laughing about how most of us now need glasses and a stepping box to get on our horses and all that old sort of stuff.”
As well as coming away with the warm glow of catching up with old friends, each guest got a hessian goodie bag with a float sticker, lollies, hand sanitiser and a commemorative mug.
Karen said there was plenty to love about the club.
“We go bush, to a lot of private properties – if it wasn’t for all the property owners letting us on, we wouldn’t even exist. They’ve been wonderful throughout the years,” she said.
“It’s social – there’s no competition, you just rock up, sit on your horse and gasbag. The people are just so friendly, welcoming, helpful, funny, reliable and honest – it’s just a great, wholesome group of people who love horse riding.”
Beaudesert Trail Riders ride every second and fourth Sunday and do camps on long weekends. For more information phone Karen on 0429 443 237.
