Tenterfield-based Border Country Trail Riders boasts members spread from Liston in the north to Glen Innes in south, but the outing on Sunday, December 2 was the first one in the southern extreme of its region.
Six riders and a sulky-driver gathered at the Grafton Street home of the day’s ride coordinator and trail boss Jo Williams for the start. They then proceeded on a 18 kilometre loop which took them down Hunter and Oliver Streets, Cramsie Crescent and Glen Legh Rd for a welcome break at the Super Strawberry on the highway.
The scenic return was via Red Range Road, the town water reservoir and Martin’s Lookout.
The ride took around three hours with no dramas, and with participants appreciating a new area to explore. Miss Williams said she’ll be making inquiries with some private landowners to map out more routes for future rides around Glen Innes to include on the calendar.
The group generally meets for a monthly ride, although the next event on the calendar is the Christmas get-together in Tenterfield on December 16. A ride through Passchendaele State Forest originally scheduled for December 9 has been postponed due to the closure of all Qld forestry due to the high fire risk.
The group occasionally travels much farther including a memorable weekend riding along Cabarita Beach last year.
Border Country Trail Riders is a member of the Australian Trail Horse Riders Association, catering to all standard of riders from all backgrounds.
Its rides cover national park and state forest trails and through private grazing country, with a safety-first attitude.
Miss Williams said the group is competing with lots of other horse disciplines for members, but those seeking a leisurely ride through the countryside in good company will find the activity appealing.
