The Boggabri Pony Club is currently hosting its 2023 pony camp at the local Boggabri Showground.
The annual event got underway on Sunday evening and will run through to this Saturday, September 30.
Boggabri was one of the first pony clubs to be established in New South Wales.
The first camp was held in 1951 and the traditions established then are continued today.
The camp is modelled on the light horse camps of the First World War, with Reveille and flag raising each morning and then the Last Post and the lowering of the flag each evening at sunset.
Forty-two riders are taking part in this year’s camp, all with the goal of upgrading their skills and competing in the gymkhana that will be held on Saturday.
The local club received a welcome and timely donation this year as Santos’ community engagement advisor, Miranda Broekman, presented the Boggabri Pony Club president Barry Thomson and vice-president Mark Smith with a cheque towards the costs of the ribbons and sashes, which will be presented during the camp.
Thomson told The Courier that the donation was greatly appreciated in these tough economic times.
“Unfortunately, last year we ran at a loss and we are hoping to break-even this year. This donation from Santos is certainly very welcome,” he said.
“We supply hay for the horses while they are in camp and we were lucky we had the opportunity to purchase it earlier in the year as now it is nearly twice as expensive.”
“It’s the extras that cost money but make camp memorable for the riders, and this donation will enable us to provide a high-quality experience,” Smith said.
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