April 14, 2015
More than 300 riders turned out on Saturday for the 30th Kilkivan Great Horse, this year held in memory of ride founder and former Kilkivan councillor Fabian Webb who died late last year.
His widow, Tanda – who took over as interim president of the Kilkivan Great Horse Ride Association – said it hadn’t been easy organising the ride but she was pleased the weekend had been a success, especially financially.
More than 300 riders took part: 204 on the Mudlo trail, 60 on the Hanging Rock trail, and 40 on the shorter Rossmore Half Trail from the local caravan park.
The riders from the three trails then met up for the traditional parade down the main street of Kilkivan on Saturday afternoon.
“The parade was lovely,” Tanda said. “There looked like there were lot more horses than just 300.
“(Member for Wide Bay) Warren Truss was there to welcome them as well as the new Gympie mayor Mick Curran.”
At the end of the parade, former Kilkivan mayor David Lahiff was presented with life membership of the Kilkivan Great Horse Ride Association Inc.
“He was a great help for Fabian over the years and has been part of the ride from almost the beginning,” Tanda said.
Tanda said she would love to have more people come along and join the association, or just put up their hands to volunteer to help out on the day.
“Most of the management committee were kept busy just manning the showground gates,” she said.
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[Photos: Helen Webb, Kilkivan Great Horse Ride]
Hello, Dear Tanda and Mike. I am a little behind, but have just read of the passing of Fabian. It is sorrowful but everyone has to leave at some time, some earlier than others. What a life though! I am pleased and honoured to have known Fabian, what a wonderful man. Tanda, you, Fabian and Mike welcomed me so wholeheartedly to Kilkivan,it was a belonging that I will never forget. Truly good people and I am so grateful for your loving nature.
I might also add how sad I am that my special friend Faye (Lahiff) passed so young. We had some lovely times as neighbours. I learned so much from her, truly a lovely friend. I think of you often and miss you, Faye, xxx. God bless all of you