Smiles go on for yards

By Kath Gannaway
Organisers Jo and John Kasch of the Marysville Saddle Tramps said the goal was to get people back to a region which offers “the best horse riding in Victoria”.
The partnership of DSE, Marysville Saddle Tramps, ATHRA and Alexandra and District Horseman’s Association, worked on rebuilding the horse yards, toilets, barbecue and picnic areas at the campground.
More than 1200 volunteer hours were put into working bees to build the impressive yards which provide a safe and secure ‘camp’ for up to 30 horses.
“The yards are built for horse riders by horse riders,” Ms Kasch said as the more than 50 riders saddled up after the opening ceremony.
More than 100 people attended the opening, with most staying for several days in the Marysville region.
John Steer, DSE District Manager Murrindindi Land and Fire Services declared the site open and congratulated everyone involved in the project.
Grant Edward, Tourism Industry Officer with Murrindindi Shire Council said the re-opening of the camping ground and the excellent facilities were another step towards re-establishing tourism in the region.
He said the equine industry was a multi-million dollar contributor to the shire, including tourism.
“We need to create, in exactly the way Jo and John have here this week, opportunities that keep visitors here for more than a day or a night.
Riders who travelled hundreds of kilometres were impressed.
Tim Brudenell from Kangaroo Ground said he did a lot of trail and endurance riding and that the yards were the best he had seen in a long time.
Ron Healey from Burrumbuttock near Albury was visiting the area for the first time.
“What they have done here is fantastic. It’s my first visit and it’s great to see the recovery all around and to see people using the bush again,” he said.