With the support of a $10,000 Small & Vital Strengthening Rural Communities grant, funded by the Australian Government, the Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemen’s Association (TMCA) was able to preserve and pass on traditional high-country horsemanship skills. The grant helped bring together locals for a much-loved community festival, celebrating Tasmanian stockman culture and ensuring these unique skills are shared with the next generation.
For more than three decades, TMCA’s annual get together has been a highlight for locals, showcasing horsemanship, cattle handling and traditional bush skills. But as with many community groups, COVID caused a major disruption, forcing the cancellation of the event in both 2021 and 2022. During this time, the committee also underwent changes and by 2023, they faced the challenge of reviving the event, while navigating new compliance requirements.
Despite these hurdles, the TMCA rallied and successfully hosted the 2023 festival, which attracted more than 500 people. While the event was a wonderful celebration of community and culture, it came at a financial cost. Attendance was lower than expected and overspending in a few areas left the organisation in a tight spot. With depleted funds, the TMCA reached out for a “hand up” to secure the future of their gathering.
The FRRR grant helped ease financial pressure and gave the TMCA confidence to plan ahead. With new pledges of community support, in-kind donations and renewed enthusiasm, the group was able to prepare for and deliver their best event yet in 2024, with a focus on creating an inclusive and family-friendly festival. Alongside stockman’s skills like cattle handling, whipcracking and stockhorse events, there were novelty races, relays and the always-popular billy can race – ensuring there was entertainment for everyone.
Thanks to a combination of grant funding, the dedicated power of community and local generosity, TMCA’s financial position is now much stronger. They are not only safeguarding traditional horsemanship but also strengthening community spirit, ensuring that this unique piece of Tasmanian heritage continues to be celebrated well into the future.
