Border protection

By Bridget Cook
MORE than 100 riders saddled up on Sunday to take part in the 22nd annual City of Casey Riding of the Bounds.
Riders on horseback and horse-drawn vehicles undertook a time-honoured tradition of inspecting the municipal boundaries, between Casey and Cardinia, which began in Casey’s sister city, Berwick upon Tweed in the UK more than 400 years ago.
Then the purpose of the ride was to make sure there were no Scots attempting to retake the town which had been captured and lost by the English several times during years of border wars. In modern times a ceremonial ride is held every 1 May.
The Riding of the Bounds started at Akoonah Park, Berwick.
Following the ride, all participants enjoyed a barbecue lunch, entertainment and an awards ceremony.
Lesley Hurst was awarded the Champion Rider, Hotspur Trophy, Ruby Conlan took out the Mayor’s Choice, King Robert The Bruce Trophy and Willow Lodge Riding Ranch won the Best Presented Group, Kay Irving Trophy.
The Best Horse Drawn Vehicle, Grace Darling Trophy, went to Peter O’Hagan, the Most Australian Rider, Ned Kelly Trophy, was won by John Glover and the Best Western Turnout, Sir William Wallace Trophy, was awarded to Luke Smithard.