A Far North Queensland-based branch of the Australian Stock Horse Society (ASH) has been named branch of the year.
In a double coup for the Cape York and Tablelands Branch, long-serving members Henry and Colleen Taylor, Dimbulah, were awarded special service awards in recognition of their outstanding contribution to branch, the Australian stock horse breed and the Australian Stock Horse Society over a number of years.
Mr and Mrs Taylor, who have been members of the branch for 42 years, were presented with their awards and the branch of the year award by the society’s board of director’s vice chairman and northern director Jenny Petrich, Mt Molloy, at the society’s annual general meeting.
The branch, which has more than 50 members, was recognised for the high level of services it delivers to members, the development of new opportunities and successful engagement.
Branch president Val Shannon said the award was a great recognition for Far North Queensland, the home of the society’s most northern branch.
“We have a small committee that works hard to keep the Australian stock horse alive in an area where there aren’t a lot of registered stock horses,” Mr Shannon said.
“It means we have be innovative with what we do and run events both for registered and non-registered stock horses.
“A lot of these awards go to branches down south and in the Hunter Valley region where stock horses are a big thing, so its nice for the north to be recognised.
“I think what resonated with them was the fact that our members will travel 300 to 400 km for a draft.”
The branch runs several events during the year including a youth camp and campdrafts in Mareeba and Mt Surprise.
Mr Shannon paid special mention to Ms Petrich for her support of the branch.
He said the Taylors had been instrumental in the branch’s success.
Mrs Taylor, whose children and grandchildren are branch members, said there had been many challenges in keeping the branch viable and interesting.
“I remember some 30 years ago when returning, the branch had nearly folded and bank funds were diminishing,” Mrs Taylor said
“A couple of us willing ladies made and iced a Christmas cake and plum pudding to raffle, this helping to revive membership, by holding a barbecue and meeting at Lake Eacham.”
Mrs Taylor said the next generation had stepped forward by taking the reins with dedication and enthusiasm to progress and keep the branch going.
“Where excels a hardworking bond of great mateship among our committee,” Mrs Taylor said.
