Riders Get Packing

Magnificent views while packing on the Bogongs

Paul Peddy from Victoria

John Kasch & his Mules

Break at Westons Hut

Alan Schulz & Peter Keir

by Jo-Anne Kasch - featured in the Winter Edition of the Horse Downunder Magazine

In January this year, twelve riders and eight pack animals headed into the picturesque Bogong High Plains. It’s unusual for such a large group of Pack Saddlers to get together. Packing is frequently a solitary activity or at least with only three or four riders together. 

Arrival at Mt Beauty saw everyone excited and nervous. Most of the riders had never been in this area before, and had the cameras ready. Vehicles are left safe in private property, horses and mules are loaded and packed up, and saddle horses snort and shuffle, waiting. With six months of planning, menus organised, horsesand mules trained and ready, it was time to start.Day one sees high temperatures predicted and a long rideto camp, spirits are high though so everyone heads off. Not to be disappointed the temp hits 41 degrees, but the river is close and there’s plenty of water for the horses and riders. Camp sees us pull into Blair’s Hut, nestled quietly under tall gum trees, lush grass for the horses and the West Kiowa river flowing right past. Horses and mules settled down, tents set up and it’s off to the river for a refreshing ‘dip’ before dinner.

Dawn comes early when you’re packing, so by 8am on day two, everyone is on their horses and ready. Climbing today heads us up past the newly rebuilt ‘Weston’s’ Hut and onto the snow plains. The sun is hot, but a gentle alpine breeze keeps the flies and temperature down. Camp tonight is at Young’s Hut. Once again an abundance of alpine grasses sees all the animals content and relaxed in their paddocks. Young’s hut, located on the edge of a snow grass meadow, shaded by snow gums and overlooks a valley of green grass and distant hills.

Sleepy start for day three, we’re all packed and on the trail by 9am. Shorter distance today, it’s off to McNamara’s Hut for two nights. Riding across the snow fields, we see only a couple of brumbies. It’s sad to see so few, but it’s still exciting for those who have never seen them in the wild before.

Camp at McNamara’s brings relaxed chatter under the shade of the trees; ‘happy hour’ includes dips, crackers and wine, and a well deserved cuppa. With a rest day planned here, it’s wash day, and take it easy day. Stories of trails and pack trips ridden are laughed at, and shared, and the stories go on.

Day five and it’s time to Pack up again, it’s become much easier now as everyone is relaxed, the mules and horses know what’s expected and there is no rush. Back up along the ridges, spot a couple of brumby colts, they come in close to see all the fun then decide it’s time to head for the hills again. Photos are snapped, we can see Young’s Hut in the distance, so it’s off again for tonight’s camp.

Dinner tonight is cooked on the camp fire as there is no total fire band. Roast Lamb and vegies, Happy camper meals, steak and vegies, the range of meals was amazing. Top this off tonight with sweets, Spotted Dog Pudding and custard.

Day six, short ride today, only 7 kms, but what a ride, wonderful views of Mt Feathertop, Hotham Ski Resort, Mt Jim, and many more. We stop and chat to some interested walkers; they’ve come over from Pretty Valley. Around the corner and we drop down into Tawonga Huts. These huts are very popular with hikers and riders alike. Relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views, camping here for two nights again sees the riders head out for a 3 hour trail ride. Pack animals are kept in camp and two riders stay to keep an eye on them. It’s our last night on the Bogongs, and it’s time to watch the sunset over the hills and reflect on one of the most beautiful parts of the country, shared with new friends, and ridden the old fashioned way, camping with packhorses and mules.

Day 7 and it’s a 5 o’clock start. First light brings cloudy skies and magpies calling. The billy has boiled, coffee made and breakfast done. The final pack up and we’re on the trail again. No one believes that the views could get better, but trail leaders Alan and John have done it again. The views from on top of the Mt Fainter Fire Trail need to be seen to be believed.

The mountains stretch into forever, the colours are unbelievable and there are too many wild flower varieties to count. Stop for 20 minutes for photos to try and catch the moment, leaving riders speechless. Just look and Morning tea at Bogong Jacks Hut. Quiet talking amongst the riders, we all know our journey is nearly finished, but spirits are still high, so back into the saddle and we’re off to the floats back in Mt Beauty. The finish is just the start. We all agree that this journey is only the beginning of new trails to be ridden together.

We have all shared our ideas on packing, all learnt new ways and thoughts about things, made new friends and most importantly, we have all done our bit in keeping the Australian Pack Saddling tradition going.

Bogong or Bust? Been there, done that! Bring on 2013 for new adventures. Pack Saddling Information can be seen on, http://packsaddlingaustralia.com

The Winter Edition of The Horse Downunder Magazine is out on the news stands now or can be purchased online as an e-mag. Go to www.horsedownunder.com.au