Spur Ranch visits Coonabarabran: Honouring service, building community

This year marked the second time Spur Ranch attended the Coonabarabran sub-Branch Remembrance Day ceremony, cementing a tradition that began in 2024 when Gerard Sutton, one of our dedicated volunteers, connected Spur Ranch with the local community. That introduction opened the door to something truly special: a muster that coincides with the town’s annual observance of Remembrance Day. 

Riding for Remembrance 

On 11 November, veterans, volunteers, and Spur Ranch team members saddled up to ride in the Coonabarabran Remembrance Day parade. Among the horses was a striking and solemn figure: the riderless horse, its boots reversed in the stirrups, a powerful symbol of those who did not return from war. 

As Spur Ranch’s Program Manager, Rebecca Kennedy explained: 

“The riderless horse pays respect to fallen soldiers, as if the horse came back without its rider from the battlefield.” 

Adding to the poignancy, volunteer Gerard Sutton donned a historic Light Horse uniform and rode with a military saddle, bringing history to life and honouring the legacy of Australia’s mounted troops. 

First-ever Team Sort: skill and camaraderie 

After the parade, Spur Ranch hosted its first-ever team sort event, a competitive and exhilarating activity where pairs on horseback sort numbered cattle against the clock. Rebecca described the challenge: 

“Team sorting is a national sport; you go in a team of two and cut out numbered cattle in the fastest time. It’s a lot of skill and a lot of fun.” 

The event wasn’t just about competition; it was about connection. Veterans, staff, and locals worked side by side, sharing laughs and learning new skills. For many, it was a chance to step outside their comfort zone and experience something completely different. 

Stories that matter: linking past and present 

The day also offered a profound moment of reflection. Participants learned about William Allen Irwin, an Indigenous soldier from Coonabarabran who enlisted in World War I and never returned. His story was shared by his great-grandnephew, Peter Milliken, who has dedicated himself to raising awareness of Indigenous soldiers’ contributions. 

Rebecca recalled: 

“Peter has been on a mission to bring awareness to Indigenous soldiers. He even travelled to France to honour his great uncle with a smoke ceremony. It was pretty special to have him around.” 

This connection between past and present was further honoured through trophies named after Irwin and AJ Taylor, another local soldier and Gerard Sutton’s great-grandfather. Both men enlisted within a week of each other, and their descendants now stand together to commemorate their service. 

Community at its heart 

The success of the muster and team sort was made possible by the generosity of locals. 

• David Grant, a local stock agent, provided cattle for the event and helped set up the arena.

• Carlene, a 90-year-old landowner, opened her property for the muster, cooked lunch for the group, and even donated funds to support Spur Ranch’s work. 

Rebecca reflected on these acts of kindness: 

“We think we’re taking more than we’re giving here, but it’s clear through these interactions that’s not the case. We’re giving back as much to them as they are to us.” 

More than an event: a shared experience 

For veterans and their families, the muster and parade are deeply meaningful. 

“It makes everyone step back and realise they’re not the only person,” Rebecca said. “There’s a shared experience across generations and cultures… tying the past and present together with purpose.” 

Partners were included too, breaking down barriers that often leave families on the sidelines. One veteran’s wife rode alongside her husband in the parade—a moment she described as unforgettable. 

Looking ahead 

The Coonabarabran muster is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a growing tradition that blends remembrance, community, and the healing power of horsemanship. As Rebecca summed up: 

“Everyone’s so proud to have us there, and we’re getting as much out of it as they are. If we can take that everywhere else, then you’re doing something right in life.” 

Why it matters 

In a world where small communities are often overlooked, events like this remind us of the strength found in connection, between veterans and civilians, past and present, people and country. Spur Ranch’s work in Coonabarabran is a testament to what happens when purpose meets partnership. 

 To learn more about Spur Ranch, click here.