The 2025 Charity Horse Ride and Bush Muster, hosted by Breakaway Horse Riders Mackay, was a powerful show of community spirit, purple pride and heartfelt purpose — with thousands of dollars raised in support of vital health causes including cancer research, heart disease research, and the Mackay Base Hospital Oncology Unit.
More than 170 riders saddled up for the annual event, which this year shone a spotlight on pancreatic cancer awareness, honouring survivors like lunchtime speaker Greg Barr, who shared his personal journey with the disease.
The ride began at 107 Brand Road near Mirani and wound its way through picturesque country to Dows Creek Hall, where over 100 horses and their riders were cheered in by family, friends and locals. Among the many proud moments was seeing three generations of the Johnson family ride together, while original event supporters Ted and Bernice Bussey watched on from the sidelines with smiles and tears.
A morning tea stop at Mirani Community Hall, generously prepared by the CWA Gargett crew, gave riders and backup teams a warm break. After dismounting to cross the bridge, participants enjoyed a sausage sizzle at the lunch stop — made even more special thanks to a surprise BBQ courtesy of Marian Lawns Turf Farm, with Anthony and Corey and their family stepping up to feed the masses.
There was purple everywhere — from riders and horses to decorations — as people dressed up for the cause. Prizes were awarded for best dressed and top fundraisers, and plenty of lucky rider prizes were handed out at lunch.
Kaley-Jade Baker from Star101 clocked up 26km in the saddle, calling it a “record-breaking ride” as she celebrated her first charity ride with Breakaway alongside her horse Buddy:
“171 riders & over $24,000 raised in support of pancreatic cancer awareness for the Mackay Base Hospital’s oncology unit. Here’s to mine and Buddy’s first Breakaway Horse Riders Mackay charity ride!”
The Mackay Camera Group captured the action from start to finish, helping preserve the memories of an unforgettable day.
From community generosity to shared determination in the saddle, the 2025 Charity Ride was more than just a ride — it was a celebration of mateship, purpose, and purple passion.
Three generations in the saddle! From left: Adam, 2-year-old Charlotte, Scott, 4-year-old Georgia and Robert Johnson riding proudly together for a great cause.
Snapped in stride! Action shots from the day were captured by the talented Mackay Camera Group, preserving every purple-powered moment. Photos supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
