Meet our Guide: Michael

Howqua River Ride, Australia

Michael and his wife Sally are our guides and hosts on our sell-out riding holiday ‘The Man from Snowy River’ ride set in the High Country of Victoria. They are a true blue Australian family with a love of horses and the landscape and heritage they surround themselves with.

How long have you been running your horse riding holidays? 
Running as a family business for 35 years which Sally and I have owned for the last 17 years.

And what was the background, history or reason for starting?
We were breeding horses as a hobby at the start and along came the movie ‘The Man from Snowy River’, so our family thought it was a good idea to start trying to make a living from horses.

How many guest horses do you have? 
60 horses.

Describe your herd of horses in four words.
Happy, healthy, willing and varied.

What is the philosophy or ethos behind your horse riding safaris in the Howqua Valley? 
Providing an experience that enjoys the best of what the region is renowned for whilst connecting with the culture of the places they are visiting. It combines the history of the area with families that helped shape it, savouring the local produce on offer in its most sophisticated form and enjoying the adventure with great comfort in the evenings.

What do you love most about your job?
Love working with horses and the challenge and satisfaction of matching guests to their steeds.

What is the most challenging part? 
Long hours of work.

Why should globetrotters sign up for this ride? 
Beautiful riding country, fantastic food, to connect with local families and to enjoy great friendships while staying in comfort.

A tip that every globetrotter must know before signing up for this ride.
Be adventurous with not just your riding but also your food tastes.

Finish this sentence – Don’t leave home without…
Clothes for four seasons and a torch.

If you are keen to join Michael on a ride in the footsteps of the Man from Snowy River, make sure you check out our Howqua River Ride.