After two years of cancellations due to COVID-19, the Sandy Hollow Hotel is more than ready to saddle up for the return of an iconic event that raises money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
The Sandy Hollow Hotel has long been synonymous with a fundraising event that is a little different from most.
Often attracting hundreds of riders and their horses, the 35km Sandy Hollow Charity Horse Ride is an annual event raising money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter – an invaluable service for regional NSW.
Now, after two years of cancellations forced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the pub is once again saddling up to lend a helping hand.
“As always, we’ll be offering the free camping area for riders, donating prizes for the auction, getting actively involved with organising the event, and supplying cooking equipment for the barbecue,” hotel operator Katie Cowan said.
“It will be all hands on deck.”
Just a few years ago, the event, which raises around $30,000 each year, was in jeopardy when the original location for camping, horse agistment, and the starting line was sold. That’s when the local pub stepped in and saved the day, offering the parcel of land at the rear of the hotel as an alternative.
“The ride is a big calendar event and it sure does bring the town together,” Katie said.
“Lots of other local land owners also offer up their properties to be used on the track, and local residents offer their time as different people within the community have relied on the helicopter in the past and everyone digs deep to give back and ensure it stays in the air.”
The Sandy Hollow Charity Horse Ride will leave from Sandy Hollow Hotel on Saturday, 23 April.