2012 Cabanandra Campdraft & Cattle Drive

Reg Ryan and Coolidowns Cream Surprise

Small mob beneath McKillops Bridge waiting for their turn to cross

Tom Ventry leading the first of the cattle over the bridge.

Cabanandra Campdraft is unique in so many ways.  The weekend prior to the draft a dozen stockmen headed west to Gelantipy from Deddick Springs in Northern Victoria – a distance of over 50kms.  They muster the 800 plus head of cattle required for the campdraft with the help of 40 or more dogs to ready them for the cattle drive which is through hilly country and across the Snowy River.  Most years the cattle can cross the river, however with the water measuring over four metres in depth a couple of weeks prior to the crossing – it was necessary to use McKillops Bridge. The bridge stands 15 metres above the Snowy River and is approximately 250 metres long.

Tom Ventry hosts the annual campdraft and led the cattle over the bridge and onto his property to rest up for the campdraft.  The competitors have a challenge themselves getting to the draft as the road in is mostly untarred beyond the township of Delegate and winds through the mountain with several sections only wide enough for one vehicle.  The constant weaving through the hills can be a bit much for the stomachs of even the toughest - just ask Simon Dodwell (successful campdrafter and judge).

The campdraft commenced on Friday afternoon with the Maiden and after over 100 runs Bill Peadon and Ben Mooney tied their scores and had to run off for first place.  Ben Mooney on Boo was the eventual winner over Bill Peadon and Bibbenluke Booshang.  Ben and Boo also finished Saturday off by taking out the coveted Pat Ventry Memorial Open Draft.

The crowd was kept rocking well into Saturday night with the exceptional sound of the Poddy Dodgers who manage the acoustics of a tin shed/stage surprisingly well.  The catering at the campdraft would have to be the best anywhere with the slow combustion stoves putting out tempting morsels and full meals from early morning till well into the night.  To quench the thirstiest the ‘Bull Pen’ bar opened at regular times with beer on tap.

When the campdraft is over and the competitors head home, Tom and his band of stockmen spend days sorting the cattle for the return trip.  Certainly true cattlemen one and all.

Story & Photos: Jenny Solomon www.jensol.net