Hello everyone,

I trust all is well with you all. It is pouring with rain at Manjimup as I write this newsletter. The town is currently hosting the marathon Bike Ride from Albany to Perth. The riders have Manji as a rest day where they can rest, relax and do their washing etc, sadly it has rained (one inch to be precise) since they arrived on 22nd March. They are mostly in tents on the Rae Park oval. There are about 2900 of them, I've never seen Manji so busy! I Anyway it reminds me of the Kalgorlie Trek when it continually rained both day and night, ahhhh but that's another story!!

Last ride at Harvey
Our thanks again to John and Angie for hosting another successful ride from their home. Thank you for looking after us so very well with sweets and coffee and of course wine! The track was wonderfully marked thanks to Merv and Liz, and it was most certainly a beautiful ride following the river and shady too. On a personal note I would like to thank everyone very much for their help and support for Asher and myself on the Sunday. Good Luck to the Reids with their new wine label and the launch of the Savignon Blanc. Wine can be purchased from Angje just give her a ring.

Next ride at Easter on 14th to 17th April 2006
The venue for this ride is Westdale on Phil and Di Moriaty's property.

Directions                   Leaving Perth via Brookton Highway, travel approx 15km from
Kehnscott to Karagullen service station, continue along Brookton Hwy for approx
37.5km to Edison Mill Road (used to be Dale West Road), turn left into Edison Mill
Road, travel approx 15.3km to Dobaderry Road, turn left, then travel approx 2.4km to
farm turn off, turn left and farm gate along fence line approx 400m. Camp by the
cattle yards.

Times:                 Friday ride will be approx 17-20km. Leaving the camp at 12noon Saturday ride will be 35km. Carry your own lunch Sunday ride will be 35km Carry your own lunch Monday ride will be 12km

Hay:                    NO HAY please bring chaff only
Yards:                Bring your own, electric please
Ablutions:       Bush toilet and shower
Meals:                Bring your own food etc and gas stove for cooking
Children:          This event is NOT suitable for children
Tracks:              Suitable for horses and carts, horses must be shod/wearing boots
Fees:                   Members riding and non riding $5.00
 Non members riding and non riding $10.00
 $7.00 per day per person riding or non riding

******Please send entry form and monies to Margaret Rose before the ride.*******

Water:                     Water is an issue here so please bring as much as you can for both
horse and human
Ride information and enquiries to Greg Steemson 92932007

May Weekend Venue
So far we do not have a definite venue for this ride.  Would anyone like to host a ride in this month?  If so please let us know.

New Zealand proposed Trek 2007
Greg has email contact with Jean Latham concerning the 2007 trek in New Zealand. As you can imagine this will be quite a huge task for Jean so we need a SERIOUS expression of interest from people who would like to go on this trek. As yet we have no price indications which I can report on so I understand this is of no help HOWEVER we would ask you to think about:
1.  Travel as a group and try to get a group discount
2.   After the trek go and have a look around NZ
3.   Hire swags, and camping gear
4.   Hire horses and riding gear
5.   Food and cooking
6.   Clothing - take wet weather gear -
Please let Greg know if you are seriously interested in the trek as soon as possible so he can liaise with Jean. You can reach Greg on 92932007 or email him at gsteemson@bigpond.com. When we have some idea of the costs we will ask for a deposit which will be around the $500 mark.

ATHRA forms
As we have mentioned before there are a lot of forms that have to be filled in before and after one of our rides so we will be sending out a Ride Pack to the ride organizer who will fill out the various pre-ride forms. There will be a pre-ride talk and Times must be adhered to. There is also a ride register which all riders must sign before they ride so please go and sign it, the ride organizer will be holding it.

Annual Trek - Israelite Bay Heritage Trek 9* to 24ttl September
The annual trek will be held in the Esperance district centered on the historical area south of Balladonia, Greg, Merv and John have now completed the first recce details of which are enclosed.

ATHRA SA AGM
Attached to this letter are the minutes for this AGM held a couple of weekends ago.  As we are affiliated with them, please read these minutes as it includes important information as well as reports from all the other clubs who are affiliated also.

See you all on a ride soon

Irene

Hello Everyone,

It was great to see so many at the AGM last Saturday (12th Feb).  The meeting went very well, a little long in duration, but a lot of things had to be discussed, so thanks for your attention and patience.  Thanks to John and Angie Reid for having us there for the weekend AND for hosting the next ride in March.  Details to follow below.
Well done to the executive for all volunteering again and welcome to new members of the committee.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS
President                     John Reid    
Vice President             Arthur Collins             
Treasurer                    Margaret Rose
Secretary        Anna Sheehan/Irene Taaffe          
Auditor             Margaret Thomas (to be confirmed)
Publicity           Irene Taaffe
Committee Members  Greg Steemson, Deb Booker, Trevor Hayes, Nancy Riley, Beryl Eatts, Merv & Liz Bradshaw.

CHARITY RIDES
At the AGM Arthur related a story of a young man who had a terrible accident when riding, the details of which are in the current Hoofbeats Magazine.  There are ATHRA forms for clubs wishing to hold charity rides where proceeds can be donated to those in need.  If you would like to donate personally, please get the information from the magazine.  If you would like to host a charity ride, please let us know.

TREKKING THE WEST
Griselda and her book are progressing nicely, she is still looking for material so if you can help, please ring her on 9535 4824.  The club will be applying for a grant through the Lotteries Commission to the tune of $12,600.00 for assistance to print and publish the book.

MEMBERSHIP FEES
Fees have been set at $60.00 for this year, at an increase of $10.00.  This is due to the ATHRA insurance levy we have to pay, which has also increased and now costs $42.00, which does not include the cost of insurance to the club for non-members.  Non-members are charged $10.00 per day to participate for two days. $7.00 per day of this goes to  ATHRA for insurances.  This means someone can visit a ride to “try us out” for two day rides or a weekend, but must join the club after that or if the ride is over a 3 day long weekend.

Fees are now due for 2006, so please get them to Margaret Rose along with your completed membership form which had been redesigned and is attached to this newsletter.  This form will also be used for Club rides, so could all members photocopy the attached copy each time you need it.  Extra copies if required can be requested from Anna and should be available from the website soon.

WALKIE TALKIES / CB’S
It was decided at the AGM that two of these would be purchased to be taken on all rides.  Greg Steemson has obtained a quote and this has been accepted by three committee members by email (as agreed by the AGM) and has in fact come back less than expected.  These will be purchased very soon and hopefully available for next trek.

EMAILS
There has been some members who have not been receiving their newsletters by email, sorry about this, but some free email sites have limits and this can cause the email to be sent back.  For those with hotmail, yahoo etc. newsletters and all the attachments will be sent as individual emails, to try and alleviate this problem.  We are sorry for the past failure to get emails to some of you.  If your email now bounces back you will be sent the newsletter etc. by normal post.

RIDE FORMS
It was discussed at the AGM meeting the problems of forms and fees not reaching Margaret Rose in time for the ride.  To alleviate this problem, it was decided that forms and fees must be received by Margaret at least ONE week before the event.  If for some reason you are then unable to attend the ride after you have sent the form and fees in, if you notify Margaret by the Friday before the ride your fee will be returned to you after the ride.  This will help considerably as we now have to fill in Pre-ride ATHRA forms and Post-ride ATHRA forms and complete a ride register which everyone must sign before commencing a ride………. So please help us by having forms and fees in on time and signing the register as soon as you arrive at a ride.  THANKS!!!!

CLUB FLYERS
These were handed out to those at the AGM.  If you were not there and would like a flyer to pin up on your local community notice board to invite people to join us, or have someone who wants some information about the club, contact Anna by phone (08) 9525 4014 or email – aasheehan@iinet.net.au to get copies.  These are very useful and handy to have.

MEMBERS ADDRESS LIST
This is attached to this newsletter.  Please check your details and if there is anything incorrect please let Margaret or Anna know.  If you change any of your details, please let us know as soon as possible so we can keep our records up to date.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2006

Weekend ride options -  Smiths farm, Dardanup, Griselda’s 10th light Horse, Coolup, Myalup (Margaret Rose)

Information on the Annual Trek will follow in the next newsletter after the completion of the reconnaissance.  If you can hold a weekend ride please let Anna, Irene or Margaret Rose know.

Greg Steemson is making enquiries about a trek to be held in January 07 in New Zealand.  Information will be sent out as it comes in.

NEXT RIDE – LABOUR DAY – MARCH 4th – 6th

WEBSITE ADDRESS
It was noted at the AGM that this was incorrect on some Newsletters.  Please note the correct address is www.watrekkers.info.  Newsletters and forms plus pictures of treks are available on this site, as well as Office bearers names and contacts.

That’s all for now, see you all at a ride, hopefully

Anna and Irene.

Hello everyone, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

I hope all is well with you all and that you all had a great Christmas and New Year celebrations. Weather down here is not too good but we still managed to have a good time, raining as I'm writing this newsletter.

This newsletter is to call to everyone's attention the AGM.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The AGM will be held on Sunday 12th February 2006 at the Stirling Cottage Kitchen. The meeting will commence at 11.OOam sharp, it would be appreciated if you could arrive by 10.30am so we can get underway as promptly as possible as people do have a ways to travel.
There will be a club sponsored lunch after the meeting.

Directions - The Stirling Cottage Kitchen is located on the South West Highway, Harvey. If traveling from Perth you turn left before the Harvey bridge at the sign post that reads Harvey Agricultural School. If traveling from the South turn right after the Harvey bridge at the Harvey Ag school sign. There is also a sign on the road that says Stirling Cottage Cafe. The cafe is behind the tourist bureau (Moo Shoppe.) We will be seated on the veranda overlooking the gardens. Tele Ross and Glenda on 97291096 for further directions.

AGENDA

If you have any matters you would like addressed at the AGM please let Anna of myself know. I would like to remind everyone that membership fees will be due at the AGM. They are currently $50.00, we do have to send a large portion of that to ATHRA for insurance so please give some thought to our annual fees.

See you there

NEXT RIDE AT JOHN AND ANGIE REIDS, HARVEY

John and Angie Reid have very kindly agreed to host a ride for us in conjunction with the AGM on Saturday 11th February at their property. The ride will start at 1.OOpm where John will lead us somewhere adventurous for the afternoon.

You are most welcome to camp at John and Angies on Saturday night, leave your horse there whilst attending the meeting on Sunday. You will need to BYO everything for you and your horse. Shower and toilet available. Please fill in and return an event form to Margaret R with your fees. Ride enquiries to John on 97291874

Fees are members riding and non- riding $5.00. Non- members riding and non-riding $10.00.

TREKKING THE WEST

Griselda is working very hard at the long slog of our proposed book Trekking the West. She is still wanting information and short stories from your trekking experiences. So please don't be shy and get writing. You can contact Griselda on 95354824.

THINKING HEADS ON

Please get thinking of venues for the long weekend rides and weekend rides as our calendar of events is open for ideas. The next long weekend is in March the 4th 5th and 6th. Perhaps Smiths Farm, Collie.??

Please note I have a new phone number which is different to the one circulated on the membership form, after 7.OOpm on 97718115. Any ideas please ring Anna or Margaret R or myself.

All of the current news can be downloaded in PDF form here

Hi everyone,

 I trust everyone is well and getting plenty of riding in. The weather is not always helping in that regard though, it always seems to rain when I saddle up. Anyhow it was good to see members at Lewana where we did have the best weather there for a long time. Thank you to Arthur for marking the tracks, it is time consuming, but we are all very appreciative. Our host Ben made life easier with his endless supply of firewood and helpful personality. Our thanks to everyone.

NEXT RIDE – Tenth Light Horse Trail: Coolup July 16 – 17th

Details of how to get there were in the last newsletter. The ride organiser is Griselda who you can contact on 9535 4824. You will need to bring everything including your own drinking water and cooking water. There is plenty of horse water. There is very limited shelter on Ross’s block so a tent and tarps is advisable as you will probably encounter rain. Fees are $5.00 for member’s riding/non riding, $10 for non members riding/non riding. Late fees – add $5. Event forms to Margaret Rose.

COLLIE DARKEN Rail Trail Official Opening

The Collie Darkan Rail Trail is now recognised as a heritage riding trail. There is quite a lot of history attached to this trail. It was discovered by one of our late members, Mr. Clarrie Riley. Nancy along with Liz and Merv Bradshaw have undergone a huge amount of work to get this trail where it is today. There is a close relationship with the trekkers club and the trail volunteers. The official opening for the trail is 16 th October 2005 at 11.00am. A ride is in the planning stage for that weekend. We would really like to see as many members attend for the opening. Further information can be obtained form Nancy on 9734 1521.

Trekking the West 1988 to 2005

This is the proposed title of a book that Griselda is editing. It will be an account of 17 treks with saddle and cart horsed undertaken in WA over the years 1988 to 2005. The book will commence with a description of the 1988 Bicentennial trek from Perth to Kalgoorlie along C Y O’Connor’s celebrated water pipeline built to service the Goldfields. This will be followed by accounts of journeys along the Rabbit Proof Fence, the Bibbulmun track to Hamlin Bay in the State’s South West, along the Lyons and Gascoyne rivers up north, plus treks in many lesser known parts of Western Australia.

Descriptions of each trek will be accompanied b maps and consist mainly of extracts from participants’ diaries and club newsletters. Some camp meal recipes and hints for modern horse trekkers will also be included. Illustrations will include colour photographs, pen and ink sketches etc. It is envisioned that the book will contain about 80 – 100 pages of text plus illustrations and be A4 size. The book should appeal to all horse lovers and persons with a spirit for adventure and a love of camping and outback life and travel. If we can’t fin a commercial publisher interested in the project, emphasis will have to be on keeping printing and design costs down with the aim to retail the book at about $20.

ANNUAL TREK – MURCHISON 2005

Due to the anticipated numbers on the trek, Brett has asked that we start and end the trek at the Woolshed.

To get to the Woolshed, don’t take the turnoff to the station on the Twin Peaks-Wooleen Road, just keep going towards Boolardy for about 4km until you come to the Woolshed on the right hand side of the road. This also applies if you are coming from the Murchison Settlement.

On Sunday before the trek we will ferry the vehicles to the Wooleen Cattle yards, where they will stay for the duration of the trek.

This change will make Day 1 a little longer. Greg will prepare the Sunday evening meal. Thank you Greg.

On the last day we will amend the route from Mt Grass, so we end up at the Woolshed. There are good yards there, where all the horses can be held until we collect the vehicles. Meat will be collected from Wooleen. The woolshed has good accommodation units and a cook house.

Meals

Meat will be supplies from the stations. The meat will be used for the evening meals. The club will supply potatoes, onions, carrots, tinned tomatoes, garlic, dried veg. soup mix, sugar, tea, coffee, milk, salt, pepper, cooking oil, curry powder, plain flour, rice, pasta, matches and detergent. This is for evening meals only.

You will need to bring your own food for breakfasts, lunches and drinks. You will need to bring any other food that you need ie. Chips, lollies, cakes, flour if you want to make damper or cakes etc. Bring your own water bottles and 20 litres of drinking water.

From Saturday the 27 th August onwards you will need to supply your own food and horse food as the trek ends on Friday 26 th August.

Horse Feed

Two bags of Chaff and half bag of Lucerne Chaff and one third of a bag of pellets will be provided per horse for the trek. If you need extra you will need to bring it. You will also need to bring yours own additives ie. electrolytes, carrots, molasses etc. Bring chaff for the journey up and journey home for your horse. Club chaff will only be available when the trek starts. Chaff will be left at various stations we will pick it up as required.

Camping

It could be cold so be prepared. You should bring a horse rug if he/she is usually rugged.

More rain will prolong the mosquito and sandfly season, se BE PREPARED.

There are a lot of double gees so bring a heavy duty ground sheet.

The club will supply 2 small and 2 medium camp ovens, 2 dixies, 2 eskies for the meat, 2 gas ovens, large BBQ plate, lights, food containers, 2 jugs of milk, 3 or 4 Billies, tea towels, plates, cutlery, sharp knives, other cooking utensils, kitchen table, frying pans, medical kit and horse medical kit.

Anything else, like swags and tens, chairs etc. are bring your own.

Participants on the trek

The following members are going on the trek – Deb Booker, Ian Butcher, Arthur Collins, Beryl Francis, Joan Gill, Heather Hanford, Griselda Hitchcock, Jan Jodrell, Jean Latham, Lynne Mason, Adi McIntosh, Amanda Rayner, John Reid, Nancy Riley, Margaret Rose, Greg Steemson, Irene Taaffe and Margaret Thomas.

Please make sure your horsed are freshly shod and that you have a shaped set of shoes to bring with you.

Final fees are now due so please get them to Margaret Rose as soon as possible.

Support Crew and Vehicles

The support vehicles are very kindly being loaned by Margaret Thomas and John Reid. They will be driven by Merv and Liz Bradshaw.

Thank you all very much.

Points of Interest

I have included an internet address of a few places of interest if you have the chance to stop and visit in the Murchison area. The Old Homestead on Meeberrie Station is also a great place to have a look at, time permitting, we may organise a couple of vehicles to go and have a look around.

Please have a look at –

http://www.murchison.wa.gov.au/tourism_and_travel /places of interest.html

Any ride enquiries to Greg Steemson, Margaret Rose and Irene Taaffe.

ATHRA ACCREDITED TRAIL TRAINER CLINIC

John had received a letter from ATHRA asking if anyone is interested in becoming an accredited trail trainer. The contents of this letter follow, please read it carefully and let Anna, Margaret Rose or Irene know if you are interested.

The letter reads:

“Dear John,

Offer of payment of fare to W A Affiliated member to attend Accredited Trail Trainer Clinic.

As a follow up of the package and circular forwarded to your Secretary, Athra SA would like to offer payment of one fare to a WA Affiliated member to attend the training clinic for Accredited Trail Trainer to be held in SA on 15 and 16 October 2005.

This will necessitate you talking to Albany Natural Trailriders Club President – Melanie Price 9842 8597 and deciding between you who should become the WA Trail Trainer. You may even wish to send your own club member and share the fare, that would be fine.

This person must be prepared to, on their return, visit clubs or State camps and in turn assess and accredited affiliated members as Ride Coordinators. (These people are now referred to as Trail Boss or Ride organisers)

Focus for trainer is competency and STRONG communication skills plus the desire and time to carry out this ongoing duty state wide.

We need to know your interest and your nominated person as soon as possible, as we need to nominate them to ATHRA National.

This person must also be prepared to arrive in Adelaide on the Friday afternoon, and depart Adelaide on the Monday afternoon, as we have to transport them and horsed to a country venue.

The trainer must have a current First Aid Certificate.

A manual will be provided prior to the course, and until we receiver ours, we can not tell you much more. I can assure you that there is nothing to be concerned about, we are all following the guidelines now, we just need to prove that we (ATHRA National) have accredited members out there.

Our National President I you wish to have a chat to him is Tony Hart – tony.hart@bluescopesteel.com

Regards to you all,

Joan Playford”

Happy riding. See you all somewhere out riding. Irene and Anna

Hi everyone,

Great to see a few members at the Smith Brothers’ farm for the ANZAC ride. WE all had a good couple of days away with the horses. The weather was surprisingly good for the weekend which made everything so much more enjoyable. Thank you to Margaret R and Griselda for putting together some challenging and rewarding tracks. The terrain was very steep in some places but gave us all some lovely views of the valleys. I am looking forward to doing a lot more riding through that area so we’ll keep you posted as to when we can fit in a couple more days. A big thank you to the brothers for allowing us to camp on their property again.

NEXT RIDE – MAY 21/22 and 23

The next ride will be at Jan Jodrell’s place in Northcliffe. Details circulated in the last newsletter. You can ring Jan on 9775 1049 for more information. Usual WAHTC rules will apply, so forms and money to Margaret before the ride please.

LONG WEEKEND JUNE 4, 5 AND 6 AT LEWANA

Lewana is situated 16km from Balingup and 28 kim from Nannup on the Balingup-Nannup Road. From Perth head south on the Southwest Highway to Balingup. Turn right onto the Balingup-Nannup Road, follow sign that says Old Cheese Factory. Go past the Old Cheese Factory, stay on that road until you see the sign for Lewana settlement on the left, approx 16km. ( There is a road called Lewana Road to the left – DO NOT take this road.

House No. 1 is our house being rented for the weekend – all facilities in the house will be available to everyone. DO NOT PARK or make yards on the lawns near the houses. Floats etc. can be parked near the woolshed area and on the road above the woolshed. As you enter Lewana settlement go past the managers office and new cheese factory after the BBQ area on your left. You will see the woolshed area and the road in front of the woolshed. Space will be limited so please do not make your yard/camp enormously large!!

The house provides toilet and shower, cooking facilities and utensils. Beds are limited so bring your own swag and be prepared to camp in a tent/vehicle if you miss out. Drinking water and horse water is available on site. BBQ available on the grounds.

Bring you own food and drinks, WET and WARM weather gear, horse feed, clean oaten and lucerne hay is OK. Bring a shovel and bag to pick up horse manure and take it home with you. Bring yards and an electric fence as there is a donkey, kangaroos and a CAMEL on site, (crikey I’m not looking forward to that), horse rugs and buckets.

All horses must be shod as terrain is shale and gravel and mud!! Prepare your horse for hilly and steep country. Be prepared to carry your own lunch as there may not be a back up vehicle present.

Times, be prompt please – Short ride Saturday 15 – 20km leaving 1.00pm

Sunday 30 – 35 kim ride. Suitable for carts, Carry Canvas bucket and rope for water.

Monday will be a short ride leaving 8.30am.

Ride enquiries to Arthur Collins 97641443 and Irene Taaffe 9772 4874

Fees $40 members riding/non-riding and $50 non members riding/non-riding. Event forms and fees to Margaret Rose.

TENTH LIGHT HORSE BRIDLE TRAIL RIDE COOLUP JULY 16 AND 17 2005

This ride has not been previously listed in our calendar of events It has been organised by Griselda and the venue is Ross Walmsley’s, Doman Road property in Coolup. You can contact Griselda on 9535 4824.

Venue Travelling on Southwest Highway, 5.5km south of Pinjarra turn west into Old Bunbury Road and travel 21.3 km (bitumen), then turn left into Doman Road (limestone). This turnoff is just after you have crossed the Harvey River bridge. Travel 0.6km along Doman Road to gate on left into paddock. Camp near the shed and yards. Old Bunbury Road can be accessed from the other direction off the Old Coast Road.

Times Saturday afternoon ride is 15km approx starting 2.00pm

Sunday ride is 30km approx, carry own lunch. We’ll try to get back to camp by 3.00pm so an 8.30am start is required SHARP as some have a lot further to travel home than others.

Hay No Meadow Hay

Yards There are 2 yards and a loading ramp, Bring your own electric yards

Water Plenty for horses from stock trough. Please bring your own drinking and cooking water.

Ablutions Bush Toilet, No Shower

Meals A fire if it si not too wet, bring own food and gas cookers

Shelter There are large trees and a small shed for putting saddles under etc. As it will probably be raining suggest you bring awnings and tarps.

Tracks Mainly along 10 th light horse bridle trail, which is limestone and sand through pine and red gum woodland. Suitable for carts and saddle horses. Horses need to be shod.

Fees Members riding and non riding $5

Non-members riding and non riding $10 per day

Late payment on the day add $5. Monies and event forms to Margaret Rose

ANNUAL TREK – MURCHISON UPDATE

The annual trek will be held in the Murchison district centred on the historic area around Wooleen. The dates are 15 th to 26 th August 2005.

Enclosed is an event form for the annual trek ,which you will need to fill out with the relevant deposit by 15 th JUNE 2005. The cost of the trek in $350.00 with a horse, or $300.00, without a horse. There will be a limit of 15 persons on this trek due to difficulties involving support vehicles. So, first in with their deposits of $175.00 and $150.00 respectively, will be accepted. The committee members’ decision in this regard will be final. Full copies of the trek details are available from trek organiser Greg Steemson 92932007 (H) or secretaries Irene Taaffe 9772 4874 (H) and Anna Sheehan 95254014 (H). Margaret Thomas and Frank Pinner, John and Angie Reid have very very kindly let us have the use of their Ocka and Horse float/Trailers. Thank you all very much, we appreciate the loan.

To save on space I am putting together a basic horse first aid kit. On the Kalgoorlie trek I noticed a few people had bits and bobs floating around. The club will carry some basic items such as bandages, vet wrap, antiseptic cream/spray, iodine ointments, syringes etc. I am asking for donations for poultices, stitching gear, penicillin, ace, etc. The reason for the donation of these items is that they are perishable and if they are not used, they will go out of date etc. So if you have anything like this in your kit that you are willing to loan to the club for the Murchison ride, PLEASE let me (Irene) know. You will get them back at the end of the trek. If you should need anything from the first aid kit on the trek you will be required to replace the item you have used at your own cost. The kit will be kept together, along with the human first aid kit and carried on the support vehicle or horse and cart on days when we have no support vehicle. As previously stated, it is envisaged that all donations will be returned if they are not used to the lender. So if you can help, please ring me on 97724874.

MARGARET THOMAS’S RIDE KALAMUNDA

Margaret will host us for a ride later on this year. A firm date has not yet been decided but it will more likely be October, November. We’ll keep you posted.

Waivers and Event Forms.

For cost purposed we would ask member to copy their forms, this will help in reducing duplicating costs, thanks. If you need a form, contact Anna.

That’s about it for now. Anna will email those with a current email address. Some members have said they are not receiving the newsletter by email. Unfortunately if you have a hotmail, yahoo or any free email mailbox, the newsletter is too big and is sent back, so this could be the reason. Sorry about that.

Happy trekking…

Irene (and Anna)

Hi Everyone I trust all is well with you all.

Postal Vote

Thanks to Margaret for sending out the financial accounts to go with the postal vote for acceptance. The result of the postal vote was YES.

Harris River Winery Ride

A great ride by all accounts, super venue with more rides to explore in the future. Thank you Nancy for doing the organizing and thanks to the Harris Winery people for having us there.

EASTER RIDE MARCH 25TH TO 28TH

The venue for this ride is Westdale on Phil and Do Moriarty’s property.

Directions: Leaving Perth via Brookton Highway, travel approx 15km from Kelmscott to Karagullen service station, continue along Brookton Highway for approx 37.5 km to Edison Mill Road (used to be Dale West Rd), turn left into Edison Mill Road, travel approx 15.3km to Dobaderry Rd, turn left, then travel approx 2.4km to farm turn off, turn left and farm gate along fence line approx 400m. Camp by the Cattle Yards. Map here

Times Friday ride will be 17km. Leaving the camp at 11am

Saturday ride will be 35 km. Carry your own lunch

Sunday ride will be 35km. Carry your own lunch

Monday ride will be 12km

Hay No Hay. Please bring ONLY Chaff

Yards Bring your own

Ablutions Bush Toilet & Shower

Meals Bring your own gas stove for cooking

Children This event is not suitable for children

Tracks Suitable for Horses and carts, horses must be shod.

Fees Members riding and non riding $5

Non-members riding and non riding $10 per day

Late payment on the day add $5

Water Riders should carry as much water as possible both for themselves and for their horse. Greg will arrange for a water trailer for Saturday night to refill containers. Horse Water may not be possible after lunch, particularly if there are no carts. So be prepared!

Entry forms to Margaret Rose with payments before the ride please!! Everyone is required to fill in and sign a disclaimer form regardless of the level of participation.

Ride enquiries to Greg Steemson 9293 2007

RIDE AT NORTHCLIFFE AT JAN JODRELL’S PROPERTY

Jan has very kindly offered to host us at her Northcilffe home in May. The ride will take place over the weekend of Friday 21 st May to Monday 23 rd May. This is not a long weekend but all are welcome to ride for as many days as they can ie. 2 days or 3 days. It is envisaged that the ride on Saturday will be approx 12km, Sunday will be approx 30km and Monday will be 10km. Please be prepared to carry your own lunch. Please bring drinking water for yourself as it hasn’t rained much!!! Either way Jan is looking forward to taking us through the beautiful karri forest that surrounds her. Jan can be contacted on 9775 1049 for more information. WAHTC rules will apply, forms to Margaret Rose and fees are as previously written for Easter ride. Bring your own everything. Shower and toilet available. The township of Northcliffe is not too far away form Jan’s. There is a general store with a great range of groceries and stuff, a café and a pub.

Jan has given us a mud map of how to reach her place which is attached. Any other enquiries to Jan on the above number. Thanks Jan.

Fees Members riding and non riding $5

Non-members riding and non riding $10 per day

Late payment on the day add $5

Annual Trek in the Murchison – August 2005

The annual trek is all in place for 15 th to 26 th August. The trek is centred around the historical Wooleen Station, we will be following the mighty Murchison River for much of the Trek, and the Sandford and Roderick river systems. Please let Anna or myself know if you would like any written information and we will happily send out a proposed outline.

We are still wanting more weekend rides so if you can help, please let us know so we can get some dates firmed up.

Waivers and Event Forms.

For cost purposed we would ask member to copy their forms, this will help in reducing duplicating costs, thanks. If you need a form, contact Anna.

ANZAC LONG WEEKEND 23 – 25TH APRIL

Venue Jack & Bill Smith’s farm between Dardanup and Collie on Yabberup Road off Mungalup Road. Refer to map attached.

Times Saturday ride will commence at 1.00pm

Sunday ride will commence at 9.00am till about 4.00pm. Be prepared to carry your own lunch.

Monday ride will commence at 9.00am till lunchtime.

Hay No Hay, Please bring ONLY chaff.

Fires Fires will probably not be allowed if there hasn’t been rain. Bring a gas cooker

Yards Bring your own – Electric or steel

Ablutions Bush Toilet, no Shower

Meals Bring your own

Children This event is suitable for children (over 12 – riding with a parent or guardian)

Tracks Suitable for Horses and carts, horses must be shod.

Fees Members riding and non riding $5

Non-members riding and non riding $10 per day

Late payment on the day add $5

Ride Enquiries to Margaret Rose 9726 3218 evenings

Entry Forms Please send entry forms to Margaret Rose before the ride with payment.

See you soon

Irene (and Anna)

Hi Everyone HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

AGM NOVEMBER 2004

Thank you Anna for your help in organizing the AGM held at Pinjarra, sorry I couldn't get there. Thank you Michael for your past years in the big chair and welcome John to the big chair. I feel this year was a good one with great rides and treks and I look forward to working with everyone in 2005.

Office Bearers and Committee Members for 2005

President John Reid

Vice President Arthur Collins

Treasurer Margaret Rose

Secretary Irene Taaffe/ Anna Sheehan

Newsletter Irene Taaffe/ Anna Sheehan

Committee Michael Borlase, Jo Goodall, Nancy Riley, Greg Steemson, Trevor Hayes

Anybody wanting minutes from AGM, please let Anna know by email – aasheehan@iinet.net.au or phone 9525 4014

Calendar of Events

There have been some changes to the calendar since the AGM due to venues not being available etc. As Australia Day falls on a Wednesday we did not hold a ride as usual.

• Labour Day – March 5th – 7th – Nancy Riley ride at Collie Winery
• Easter – March 25th – 28th – Greg Steemson ride at Westdale
• ANZAC Long Weekend – April 23rd – 25th – Smiths Farm
• June Long Weekend – June 4th – 6th – Lewana, Balingup
• Annual Trek – August 15th – 28th – Murchison
• September Long Weekend – Sept 24th – 26th – Irene Taaffe's, Manjimup

There will be some 2 day weekend rides as well. More information to follow as venues are confirmed. Anyone wishing to hold a weekend ride PLEASE ring me so we can firm up dates etc. As you can see there will be no ride now at Gridselda's as previously mentioned. So what do you reckon? Looks great to me.

March 5th to 7th at Harris River Estate Winery, Collie

Nancy has arranged this venue for us in March. It is where the next Quilty is planned to be held so we are quite privileged. All ride enquiries to Nancy 9734 1521

How to get there?

Follow all signs to Harris River Dam in Collie. Harris River Estate is 6km from lights in town. 6km less from Dam. Harris River Wine Estate is on the right and is signed. Map Attached. View the map by clicking here

Be prepared to carry own lunch as there is no backup vehicle.

Winery will open for us to do some wine tasting.

BYO Everything – food and drinks plus horse feed.

NO Hay

Own yards required either electric or steel.

Be prepared to pick up Horse manure as this may be required.

BBQ Available – NO CAMP FIRES – bring Gas stove

Toilets & Showers available

Bring your bathers as a dam is available for swimming.

The fees for the weekend will be:-

Members - riding and non riding $10.00 each for the whole or part of the weekend

Non Members - riding and non riding $12.00 per day (includes daily ATHRA insurance fees)

PLEASE REMEMBER – to have Event forms and Waivers to Margaret Rose BEFORE RIDE with payment.

Annual Trek in the Murchison – August 2005-01-29

An intrepid group of 5 headed north on boxing day to do the recce for the Murchison trek. The weather was extremely unusual to say the least. We encountered rain, wind, heat, dust and a cyclone!! On arriving at Wooleen Station we were greeted by Brett Pollock who was in a state of shock at having just realised the historic wool shed has been completely flattened by the cyclone/cock- eyed bog that has just gone through. The homestead was OK but large trees had been snapped off and limbs and leaf debris lay everywhere. We were supposed to be camping at the woolshed but, luckily Brett could accommodate us elsewhere. The weather did not help much with the terrain we had to get over, as things became quite boggy quite suddenly! We have renamed the River Well, “The five man bog well” for obvious reasons. If you do get bogged make sure Grisleda is on stand by because she sure is brilliant at getting everyone organised and her list of “things” used to help you get out are quire amazing. Greg did all the heavy work with the Kangaroo Jack whilst Margaret did wonders with her driving, soon learning the art of the snatch and grab rope. Nancy produced fresh rock melon just when we needed encouragement to continue on. Continue on we did, the recce was completed a little behind schedule but none the less we have firmed up a great terk and put most things in place. This will be a challenging trek. You will need to prepare your horse and yourself as well. The Trek will be 350km for the horses and 600km for the vehicles. At this stage it is anticipated backup vehicles and floats will not always be able to follow the horses. Be prepared to carry your own lunch. Floats will be left at Wooleen. Further details available on request.

Postal Votes

Attached is a postal vote for members, which needs to be returned as indicated. This has resulted from the need to change our AGM date to bring it in line with ATHRA, which was discussed at the AGM. If you have any queries regarding this matter, please contact any of the Office Bearers or Committee members.
Download a postal vote form below:-

2005 Postal Vote Form

Membership Fees

Some members have not renewed their membership this year as yet. Please attend to this as soon as possible, posting your membership form, waiver and $50.00 to Margaret as soon as you can. If this is not done by the next newsletter, no more newsletters will be sent until fees are paid.

2005 Membership forms, Waivers and Event Forms.

All these are attached. Could members please reprint or photocopy these for their own use through the year, so we don't need to send them out with each newsletter. Alternatively they are all available on the internet on our website (address at top of newsletter). If however you need copies, please let Anna know.
Download the forms below:-

W.A Horse Trekkers Club Membership Form
Membership Waiver Form

Flyer and Notice Board Pin-up

Anna has been busy designing some marketing material. They consist of a flyer that can be handed to people with detailed information about the club, what we do and what is required for trekking, as well as a Pinup notice that can been put up at local Community Notice boards. Anybody interested in having a copy of these, please let Anna know.

See you soon

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE WAHTC

Held at Edenvale Tea Rooms, Pinjarra, 27 th November 2003

Meeting opened at 11.30 am.

Quorum present after 30 minute wait.

1.  Present

Michael Borlase, Arthur Collins, Trevor Hayes , Griselda Hitchcock , John Reid, Margaret Rose, Anna Sheehan , Greg Steemson, Fran Stephens , Tony Giles.

2.  Apologies

Margaret Thomas , Frank Pinner , Nancy Riley, Mark Halcrow, Jo Goodall, Irene Taaffe, Deb Booker, Madeleine Bertolino.

3.  Minutes from previous meetings

The minutes from the previous AGM were circulated and accepted by Griselda Hitchcock and seconded by Fran Stephens.

4.  Matters arising

To be dealt with in General Business.

5. Secretary's report

CORRESPONDENCE – Margaret Rose mentioned ATHRA issues to be brought up in General Business. No report on correspondence available as Irene Taaffe not present at meeting. Anna reported that six newsletters went out this year. It was also mentioned that the shared system with Irene and Anna seems to be working OK and there was no correspondence to report on.

6. President's report

See attached report.

7. Treasurer's report

Bank account as at the date of the meeting was $5906.4.

Griselda mentioned the loss on Bremer Bay trek and it was discussed that due to the club having more than sufficient excess funds it was decided when, planning the trek, that this would be absorbed by the club if it occurred.

The amount of $35.00 of our $50.00 membership is sent to ATHRA for insurance and will stay the same again for the following year.

Audit report for 2003 was also tabled.

Resolution to accept the accounts, moved Greg Steemson, seconded Trevor Hayes . Passed by a show of hands unanimously.

8.  Appointment of Auditor

Margaret Thomas (CA) has indicated to Margaret Rose her willingness to do the audit again and it was therefore moved to reappoint her as auditor for the club. Proposed by Arthur Collins and seconded by John Ried. Passed by a show of hands.

9.  General Business

•  Children on treks - It was proposed that we continue this on a trial basis. Discussion took place on this. Arthur Collins moved this motion and Greg Steemson seconded.

•  Business Cards – This was not done last year and general concensus was to attempt to do it again this year. What contacts to have on the cards was discussed and it was suggested the website be used for this and perhaps leave a space at the bottom for members to write in phone number. Details of these can be finalized by the incoming executive.

•  Web site - Anna Sheehan offered her sons services to look after the website. It was discussed as to how this would be dealt with regarding Richard. Copyright etc might be an issue. Michael to talk to Richard about this and the club can look at offering him some remuneration for his work so far. It was agreed by the members that the website needs to be continually maintained and updated.

•  Timing of AGM - Greg raised the issue that the timing of our AGM means that we are one year behind with ATHRA. This involved the timing of the organization of our rides and this means that we should have an AGM in about February/March. ATHRA rules requires us to have an AGM held in February . Discussion took place on this. It was suggested to have a lunch time meeting at Griselda Hitchcock 's and then have an evening ride with a full moon in February. It was resolved that the AGM is to be moved to a date in February. Date to be set by the Executive. Passed unanimously.

AHTRA Forms – Some forms need to be filled in before and after rides by organiser. There is also an issue about non members riding and for what length. These are issues that has to do with us abiding by ATHRA Rules and Risk management. Discussion took place on this and other issues such as Trail bosses and First aid kits. This raised the issue of the role of the committee and their discipline in this area. The time has come for some formality to come into our organisation of rides.

•  Fees for 2005 – ATHRA fees to remain the same for 2005 and Michael Borlaise proposed fees should remain the same in view of the amount of excess funds the club has at the moment. Best value fees around. Resolved fees to remain the same. Moved Trevor Hayes and seconded Tony Giles.

10.  Election of Officers.

All roles vacated and made available. Nominations took place.

Positions filled by unanimous vote.

President - John Reid

Vice President - Arthur Collins

Treasurer - Margaret Rose

Secretary - Irene Taaffe/ Anna Sheehan

Newsletter - Irene Taaffe/ Anna Sheehan

Committee - Michael Borlase, Jo Goodall, Nancy Riley, Greg Steemson, Trevor Hayes.

The main event dates (and suggested events) for 2005 are:

Labour Day - March 5-7 - Collie Ride - Nancy to organise

Easter March 25-28 - To be advised

Anzac Day - April 23-25 - Manjimup

Foundation Day - June 4-6 - Westdale/Jarrahdale

Trek - August 15-26 - Murchison

Queens Birthday - September 24-26 or October 1-3 - Smiths Farm

Weekend rides ­ July - Griselda, Walmsleys block May - Jarrahdale

Details are to be confirmed and members advised accordingly in newsletters.

Welcome Sarah and Jeff to our meeting. Prospective members.

Meeting closed at 12.50.

New Membership Forms

If you're interested in joining the club you can download a membership form which can be printed out, completed and sent to us.
These can also be used by current members wishing to renew their memberships.
You must download and complete both the membership form and the waiver form.
W.A Horse Trekkers Club Membership Form
Membership Waiver Form

Hi Everyone,

This is a quick note just to cover a couple of last minute items for this years trek to Ravensthorpe and Bremer Bay , as well as advise you of the up and coming AGM. I am doing this on behalf of Irene as she is very busy preparing for the trek.

RAVENSTHORPE

The support vehicle will be a ute which will be pulling a float. This means space will be limited so please keep all gear to a minimum.

BREMER BAY

For those going to Bremer Bay , it has been confirmed by Nancy that there will be hay available, which should help in limiting the amount of feed people will need to bring.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The AGM will be held on Saturday, 20 th November, 2004, at Edenvale Tea Rooms, Pinjarra (same venue as last year) commencing at 11:00am (to be confirmed). There will be a club sponsored lunch after the meeting.

Directions : Edenvale is immediately on the right as you cross the Murray River driving south along South West Highway as you enter Pinjarra.

AGENDA

1. Attendance
2. Apologies
3. Minutes of previous AGM and Committee meetings
4. Matters arising
5. Correspondence
6. President's report
7. Secretary's report
8. Treasurer's report
9. Election of officers

This is your chance to do your bit for the club.

President

Vice President

Treasurer

Secretary

Assistant Secretary

Committee (5)

1. Appointment of Auditor
2. General Business

If you have any matters you would like addressed at the AGM please let Irene or myself know.

See you there!

Anna

Hi Everyone,

Hope all is well.

This Newsletter is a little late due to circumstances beyond my control, so I'll get to the important bits.

NEXT RIDE – JARRAHDALE SATURDAY 3 AND SUNDAY 4 JULY

This event will be held at Betty and Tony Gyles' place, Heroden Stud, Lyster Road, Jrrahdale. There will be a ride on Saturday starting at 10.30am sharp. This will approximately 16 km to lunch and ride back to camp. Sunday will be a shorter ride starting at 9.00am approx. finishing about lunchtime. Terrain is hilly and horses need to be shod.

Directions –From Albany Highway, travel through Jarrahdale on Jarrahdale Road and Turn Right into Nettleton Road. When Travelling from South Western Highway on Jarrahdale Road, Turn left into Nettleton Road. From Nettleton road travel just over 1km on Nettleton Road and Jarrahdale Oval will be on your right. Turn right in to Lyster Road which is a gravel Road.
If traveling from Byford along Nettleton Road travel nearly all the way to Jarrahdale until you cross old disused railway line. Lyster Road is next turn on left approx 1.5km.
Travel along Lyster Road taking left fork until you see sign Heroden Stud – approx 1.5 km.

The format will be cloverleaf.

You will need to bring your own everything for yourself and your horse. Tony has horse water available.

Hay and Lucerne is NOT permitted on the property.

Fees – members riding $5.00, non members riding $10.00, members not riding $5.00, non members not riding - $10.00
Members riding payment on the day $10.00 and non members riding payment on the day $15.00.
Members not riding payment on the day $10.00, Non members not riding payment on the day $15.00.

EVERYONE is required to fill in and sign a disclaimer form regardless of the level of participation.

Forms and money to Margaret Rose before the ride.

Tony has requested that all persons intending to go at the weekend in whatever capacity will please ring and advise him of their attendance. It is possible to book fish and chips for tea on Saturday evening. You should let Tony know if you would like to order when you ring him to let him know you will be attending the ride.
Space in limited so please park and set up yards sensibly.
Tony can be contacted on 9525 5230 .
Ride information from Tony 9525 5230 and Griselda 9525 4824.
This ride is suitable for carts
This ride is not suitable for children.

WESTDALE RIDE – SATURDAY 14 AND SUNDAY 15 AUGUST.

Venue Phil Clark and Di Moriaty's farm West Dale.
Directions – Leaving Perth via Brookton Highway, travel approx 15km to Karagullen Service Station, continue along Brookton Highway for approx. 37.5km to Edison Mill Rd (used to be Dale West Rd), turn left into Edison Mill Rd, travel approx 15.3km to Dodaderry Rd, turn left, then travel approx 2.4km to farm turn off, turn left at farm gate along fence line approx 400m, Camp by cattle yards.

Times – The ride on Saturday will start at 10.00am. The ride on Sunday will end early afternoon.

Water – You will need to bring your own drinking water. Horse water available from Dam.

Hay – No Hay. Please bring only chaff.

Yards – Bring your own

Ablutions – Bush toilet and shower.

Meals – bring your own gas stove for cooking

Tracks – Suitable for horses and carts. Horses must be shod.

Children – This event is suitable for children

Fees – Members riding $5.00, non members riding $10.00, members not riding $5.00, non members not riding $10.00. Late payment on the day add $5.00.

If you are intending to participate on this weekend please ring Greg Steemson on 9293 2007 to let him know the numbers.

Entry forms and fees to Margaret Rose before the ride.

EVERYONE is required to fill and sign a disclaimer form regardless of the level of participation.

Ride inquiries to Greg Steemson 9293 2007

Hope to see you there,

~ Irene .

AUSTRALIA DAY RIDE

A lovely weekend by all accounts. Big trail boss John taking up some pretty mountainous country for breathtaking views and great riding. Sorry to hear Frank and Rocky's mishap, hope you are feeling better Frank, we all wish well.
Thanks John and Angie for providing us with everything again.

New Membership Forms

If you're interested in joining the club you can download a membership form which can be printed out, completed and sent to us.
These can also be used by current members wishing to renew their memberships.
You must download and complete both the membership form and the waiver form.
W.A Horse Trekkers Club Membership Form
Membership Waiver Form

COMMITTEE MEETING

A successful meeting was held at Margaret and Marks place in Burekup. The 2004 calendar was discussed and boy, oh boy are we off to some great places!
Many thanks to Mark for cooking the snaggers and Margaret for the salads and providing us with a great venue.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Labour Day Weekend - February 28, 29 and 1st March - Irene Taafe's place, Manjimup Area. Distances approx 15km, 30km and 12km days.

Easter - April 9 to 12 - David Vines place, Scott River. Distances approx 15km 2 x 30km and 12 to 15km days.

Anzac Day - April 24 to 26 - Nancy Riley's, Cardiff (South of Collie). 15km, 30km and 12- 15km days

Foundation Day - June 5 to 7 - Lewana - near Balingup

Queens Birthday - October 2 to 4 - Joint ride with Warren River Horseman's Club Weekend. Venue to be arranged

Main Trek - Tentative Dates - October 18 to October 29 (One week continuous trekking Ravensthorpe/Hopetoun area and one week
Clover leaf style rides Bremer Bay/Dillon Bay area). More details will be advised as plans are firmed up.

MONTY ROBERTS

The West Australian Horse Council is pleased to announce that Monty Roberts – The Man Who Listens to Horses is coming to Perth. He will be giving two full day demonstrations at the State Equestrian Centre, Brigadoon on Saturday, 3rd April and Sunday, 4th April 2004. Tickets available through BOCS Phone 9484 1133 (metro), 1800 193 300 (country) or visit www.bocsticketing.com.au

KALGOORLIE TREK

Feedback from the reunion at Woorooloo – it would appear that not many horse trekkers were able to attend. The day was quiet but pleasant. Anyone who has not yet received their free Mundaring T-shirt should contact the Shire and ask for Julie.
Video and DVD's available from Albert at Roland Video Products. Phone 9572 1512 or email albert@rolandvideoproducts.com . Cost - $35.00 each. Please state that you require the horse trekker's video.

NEXT RIDE – 28th, 29th February, 1st March

Venue - Irene Taafe's place – Manjimup Tel 9772 4874

Directions – Traveling from Bunbury take the South West Highway to Manjimup. Go under Manjimup arch, travel on South West Highway through Manjimup. Turn left onto Muirs Highway, sign posted Rocky Gully and Mount Barker (the CALM Offices will be on your right). Travel until you see Dingup Road, turn left onto Dingup Road. Travel down until you get to the “T” junction, turn left onto Balbarrup Road. Travel approx. 0.5km, turn right onto Franco Road. Travel down Franco Road, road forks take the right hand fork, travel on, go past old cattle yards on left and old house on the right. Go over bridge, bear left through open gates, follow driveway to house on the hill.

Times Arrive Saturday for ride at 2.00pm
Sunday will be all day ride.
Monday will be a short ride

Water Horse water and rain water available

Hay No hay please, bring chaff only

Fires No fires, bring gas stove. Gas BBQ available.

Yards Bring you own

Ablutions Shower and Toilet available

Meals Bring you own (13 km's to Manjimup)

Tracks Suitable for horse and carts. Horses need to be shod

Children Suitable for children

Fees Members $5, non-members $10, non-member children - $10

Event forms to Margaret Rose. NO FORM, NO RIDE. These should be posted to Margaret Rose before the ride.

2004 TREK

It is envisaged our venues will be Ravensthorpe and Bremer Bay. Trek will commence Monday 18 October through to 29th October. The Ravy trek is likely to be 5 days riding moving from camp to camp each day. We will move on to Bremer Bay on the rest day, set up camp and do 5 days of cloverleaf riding with a rest day. Riders will be able to join the trek at Ravy or Bremer Bay. The Ravy ride will be bring your own everything, whilst at Bremer Bay we will have use of the shearing shed, toilets and showers, water for the horses and drinking water.

I have not heard from anyone wishing to host a weekend ride yet!!? Please ring me on 9772 4874 a/h. Look forward to seeing you at Manji.

~ Irene.

Annual General Meeting

A big Thank you to Greg Steemson who has “escaped” the position of Sec. You have done a great job for many years Greg, and we all appreciate your tireless input and commitment to the club. THANK YOU GREG.
Farewell and Thank you to the outgoing committee members and welcome to the new committee. Thank you Michael Borlase for putting your hand up again and thanks to Margaret Rose & Arthur Collins. Welcome Margaret Thomas, our new auditor. My thanks to Anna for passing on emails. Talking of emails, please let Anna know (9525 4014) your email address if you wish to receive correspondence via Email.

Full 2004 Committee details can be found here

Club Jumpers
These can still be ordered through Nancy Riley - 9734 1521

Chevup Shirts
These can still be ordered through Jo Goodall – 98 311 113 ASAP.

Side Pull Lead Collars
Linda Blanchard makes these (Tel-98 875 123). Costs are $45 for nickel plated ring models and $60 for brass ring models. Brass ring is recommended.

Reminder
Please note that your membership is due now. It is $50.00 and please forward this to Margaret Rose asap if you have not already done so.

EVENTS FOR 2004

The main event dates (and suggested events) for 2004 are:

Australia Day January 24, 25, 26 Reid's Farm – Wokalup (confirmed)
Labour Day Weekend - February 28, 29 and 1 March - Manjimup Are.Distances approx15km 30km and 12km days.
Easter - April 9 to 12 Scott River Distances approx 15km 2 x 30km and 12 to 15km days.
Anzac Day - April 24 to 26 Cardiff (South of Collie) 15km, 30km and 12- 15km days
Foundation Day - June 5 to 7 Lewana - near Balingup
Queens Birthday - October 2 to 4 Warren River Horsemans Weekend
Main Trek - Tentative Dates - October 18 to October 29 (One week continuous trekking Ravensthorpe/Hopetoun area and one week Clover leaf style rides Bremer Bay/Dillon Bay area) More details will be advised as plans are firmed up.

**If anyone would like to host or organize a weekend ride at any stage throughout the year then please fell free to contact Irene on 97 724 874 a/h.
AUSTRALIA DAY – JAN 24,25&26
Venue: John and Angie Reid's Farm – Lot 7 Mornington Road Wokalup
Contact - John: 97 291 874
**Bring your own everything
** NO Hay
**Ride begins 2pm Saturday

New Membership Forms

If you're interested in joining the club you can download a membership form which can be printed out, completed and sent to us.
These can also be used by current members wishing to renew their memberships.
You must download and complete both the membership form and the waiver form.
W.A Horse Trekkers Club Membership Form
Membership Waiver Form

The WA Horse Trekkers Club conducted its Annual major trek on behalf of the Mundaring Shire to assist it in celebrating its 100th anniversary. The ride was conducted from Fred Jacoby Park in Mundaring at the base of the Mundaring Weir and followed the water pipeline to Kalgoorlie.

The ride was sponsored by Chevup Gourmet Sausages and the Mundaring Shire with particular assistance being provided by the Shire confirming venues in towns, co ordinationing sporting clubs and other organisations to provide meals in towns where camp cooking was not viable, arranging police escorts in and out of towns and busy road sections, towing the farriers trailer and providing a bus to return riders from Kalgoorlie to Perth. The Club is very appreciative of that support.

The details of the ride and photos are to be found on the website set up specifically for the trek and the link is http://www.pipelinetrek.com

The clubs AGM will be held in November and the programme for rides in 2004 will be determined at that meeting. Details of rides will be posted on the website shortly afterwards and new members will be welcome to join or attend the shorter rides on a trial basis.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The AGM was held on the 2nd November, 2002. The office bearers and committee for 2003 are

President - M Borlase
Vice President - A Collins
Treasurer - M Rose
Secretary - G Steemson
Newsletter - G Steemson
Committee - I Taaffe, N Riley, M Bradshaw, E Bradshaw, J Reid.

The two main issues discussed at the AGM were the club’s insurance and children on treks.

The story of the club’s insurance is a long one and won’t be detailed here. I’m sure that a member of the executive will recount the story if encouraged by some suitable lubrication of the tonsils. However, the executive is pleased to advise members that we have insurance for 2003 and that the club is now affiliated with ATHRA, Australian Trail Horse Riders Association. Margaret Rose deserves special thanks for crystallising this affiliation.

In 2002 the members were polled on the issue of children on treks. Although the poll returned less than the 75% required to amend the Constitution, the members at the AGM agreed to trial the proposed rules for one year and to reconsider the issue at the next AGM. The rules governing children on treks are :

“That children be allowed on club events under the following conditions:
1. Each child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the event;
2. No one adult shall be responsible for more than two children;
3. The minimum age shall be 12 years;
4. Safety equipment (helmets) must be worn;
5. Each application must be approved by the Club Executive;
6. The Club Executive will nominate particular events that are deemed suitable for children. In general, children will not be allowed on the longer events or those that are not clover leaf type events;
7. Children will pay the event fee plus a loading (if any) to meet additional insurance costs.”

Members bringing children to events are asked to be considerate of other club members and please abide by these rules.

MEMBERSHIP
The new year is long passed. Fees for 2003 ($40 per member) are now due. Affiliation with ATHRA has resulted in a change to our operating procedures. All members must complete an Annual Membership Renewal Form (both sides) before participating in any club event. Some members did this at the Collie ride. Forms have been included for those that haven’t. Receipts for those members who are financial are included with this newsletter. If you are not financial soon, you will cease to receive newsletters. Attached is the address list from 2002.

Non-members may only participate twice in a club event without joining the club. This applies to adults and children.

EVENT FORMS
As with the annual renewal, affiliation with ATHRA requires an event form for each person for each event. These should be posted to Margaret Rose BEFORE each event.

HELMETS
ATHRA recommend that members wear a helmet conforming to AS NZ 3838 standard. Notwithstanding whether a member wears a helmet or not, the club requires all members sign a waiver which is included on the membership form.

MARCH LONG WEEKEND

Venue John and Angie Reid’s place, Mornington Mills, tel 9729 1874

Directions Approx 2 km south of Wokalup, turn east onto Mornington Rd, travel for approx 6 km, turn left 200m passed the turn to Mornington Mills PCYC camp into Reid’s farm.

Times Arrive Saturday by lunchtime for a ride in the afternoon
Sunday will be an all day ride
Monday will be a morning ride, leave after lunch

Water Horse water and rain water available

Fires No fires, bring gas stove

Yards Bring your own

Ablutions Toilet available, no shower

Meals Bring your own

Tracks Suitable for horse and carts

Children This event is suitable for children

Fees Members $5.00, Non-members $15.00, Non-member children $10.00

EASTER
The Easter ride will be at West Dale. Details in the next Newsletter.

Trekking Info For 2003 Announced

Australia Day - Jan 26. LWE Collie Burn at the Stock Yards

March Labor Day Long Weekend - March 1-3 will be held at the Reids property at Mornington Mill. Directions will be provided closer to the ride.

Foundation Day Ride - May 31/June 1 and 2. Location - either Jarrahdale or Collie region.

Easter Ride - April 18 to 21. Location - probably the Dale River Area off the Brookton Highway.

Foundation Day Ride - May 31/June 1 and 2 will be at Langford Park Jarrahdale - again specific directions will be provided closer to the ride.

Main Trek - The main Trek for 2003 will be held from Monday September 23 to approximately October 10/11. It will depart from Mundaring and follow the water pipeline to Kalgoorlie. It is being held in conjunction with the WA Mountain Bike Association to help the Mundaring Shire celebrate its 100th Anniversary. This will be a historic event effectively recreating the original pipeline ride which was the genesis of the WA Horse trekkers Club. The ride will be limited to 30 horses and participants must be members of the club and if they are new members have participated on at least one ride during 2003.

For more information on these upcoming treks click here

New members are welcome to join the club. Come along and try one of the long weekend rides enjoying a couple of nights out under the stars and easy paced trail riding. Contact Michael Borlase on 9365 7547 day or 94449525 or 0417908620 during evenings, Greg Steemson on 9353 4890 day or 92932007 during evenings for more details.
Pictures from previous treks can be found here

The annual general meeting of the WAHTC was held at the Held at the Redcliffe Barn, Ravenswood Sanctuary, November 2nd 2002.

A number of issues were discussed. The election results were:-

President - M Borlase
Vice President - A Collins
Treasurer - M Rose
Secretary - G Steemson
Newsletter - G Steemson
Committee - I Taaffe, N Riley, M Bradshaw, E Bradshaw, J Reid.

For full details of the AGM you can download a copy by clicking here

Insurance
Acting on a resolution passed at the 2001 AGM, the Club has joined the EFA to take advantage offered by the EFA with insurance. However, the EFA'a underwriter is insistent on the adherence to strict procedures. To accommodate these requirements, the Club's membership form has been redesigned and an event form has been developed.

All participants in each event must complete an entry form for that event.

There are no exceptions. Similarly, the Club must adhere to its Constitution and Rules otherwise the insurance cover could be voided. If you consider that your rights are being infringed, you are cordially invited to join the committee so that you can share the responsibility of ensuring that the Club is not exposed to litigation.

Club Rules
The Club Rules have been developed by the Club members. They can be varied by resolution of the members at an AGM. Club members are asked to familiarise themselves with the Rules. Read about them here

Labour Day Weekend
The Labour Day weekend will be held at Smith's Farm just east of Dardanup. The tracks are easy going and take in jarrah/marri forest and the perimeter of the Wellington Dam. More details here

The Easter ride will probably be held in the Manjimup area. Details later.

Club Fees
Club fees for 2002 are now due. Joining fee is $20.00. Annual membership is $40.00. Please forward your fee and Annual Renewal form to Margaret Rose. Receipts for those members that have paid should be with their copy of the newsletter.