by Luke Voogt
More than 20 riders saddled up and trotted almost 80km through the Otways this week raising money to fight cyber bullying.
Great Otway Trail Ride organiser Veronica Phillips described the inaugural three-day ride as the first of its kind in decades.
“It was all about getting the community to help out and they did – it was just amazing,” she said.
Eight riders set off from Boonah Hills on Saturday, with another 14 joining them for the next two days to explore picturesque Otway trails.
The riders, aged 6 to 23, passed Moggs Creek, Aireys Inlet, Deans Marsh, Barwon Downs and Forrest, staying at local community halls overnight.
The ride helped the kids build “resistance” and learn new skills, Veronica said.
“I see a lot of cotton-wool parenting and I think it’s important for kids to learn things out in the bush.”
The Deans Marsh local has ridden horses for 40 years and has three brumbies that she rides in her “big backyard” – the Otways.
“You’ve got to trust your horse on those long trips because he’s the one who’s going to bring you home.”
Veronica based the event on rides from decades past after hearing tales from local farmers.
“They used to get 30 kids on horses, borrow saddles and ride to the back of Lake Elizabeth,” she said.
Deans Marsh Primary School, Surf Coast Shire and local businesses supported the ride, which has raised about $500 for Dolly’s Dream.
Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett’s parents set up the charity after the 14-year-old committed suicide following an extended period of cyber bullying.
For help phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
