The Barmah Muster is back and the family-friendly event — on Friday, April 28, to Sunday, April 30 — is set to be bigger and better than ever.
Now its 12th year, the muster sees participants compete in traditional stockman activities such as arena sorting, team penning which involves sorting out cattle, dog trialing which involves dogs working to sort out cattle and the stockman challenge, an obstacle course set to test the skill of a rider and their horse.
Barmah Muster organiser and committee member Susan Rodgie said the muster is all about keeping the tradition of the Australian stockmen, who used to roam the area with their cattle, alive for the next generation.
“It’s all about educating the youth about our history,’’ she said.
“It’s like an iconic celebration of Australian stockmen.”
While some of the events are now closed for new entries, some events could be entered on the day, and there are plenty of attractions to enjoy.
Away from the competition area, the muster still has plenty for attendees to enjoy from trail rides for children to bonfires and live entertainment and an auction of goods of all sorts with proceeds going to worthy local charities.
On Friday, a traditional camp oven tea will be served and there will be food vans for every tastebuds as well as a licensed bar.
Alternatively, attendees could bring food and drink.
There will also be stalls selling merchandise.
Ms Rodgie said attendees need to arrange their own sleeping arrangements with plenty of camping spots available as well as toilet and shower facilities.
“Past years have seen the flashiest of horse trailers next to the most humble of swags,” she said.
For those not wishing to stay the night, day passes are available.
As for people still deciding, Ms Rodgie said that it was a very laid-back family-friendly event surrounded by nature.
“Learn about our past and experience life in country Australia and what makes Australian stockman so unique,” she said.
“It’s always a good weekend.
“People enjoy whether it is hot or raining and they always come back.”
The original Barmah Muster took place every year for 186 years and involved stockmen moving their cattle in the area which now encompasses the Barmah National Park.
When the park was founded in the early 2000s, the stockmen were determined to keep their traditions alive and the new Barmah Muster was born.
For information about the Barmah Muster, visit www.barmahmuster.com.au/home
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