Eager to hit the trail early, riders were ready to go by 7.30am on Saturday morning. 

Trail boss, Pat Gillis of Kars Springs led the riders, many of whom used the trail ride to train new or young horses. 

Merriwa Pony Club president Clare Martin said it was the third trail ride the club had hosted as the end of year party.

“The children really look forward to the trail ride, sleeping in the shearing shed with the old possum and swimming in the river.

“‘Gathabawn’ is a beautiful property and we sincerely thank Ken Brown for allowing the pony club to use it and Pat Gillis and his wife Tanyia for being such gracious hosts,” she said.

Riders enjoyed plenty of mountain range scenery and were almost able to touch the clouds in some of the high parts.

“Pat chose another fantastic trail ride route for us this year which all our riders could manage.

“There were a few creeks to cross and plenty of hills and thistles to dodge but everyone got back to camp safely,” Martin said. 

Santa made an impromptu stop at the camp Saturday night delivering presents to the children before taking off on his ‘boomer’ for the North Pole. 

After a soggy Saturday night, kids merrily retrieved horses from mud for another couple hours ride before lunch on Sunday and a swim and barbecue down the river.