TMCA President’s Report – 2025
By Tanya King
After two years as your President, I can confidently say that the Tasmanian Mountain Cattlemens Association has turned a significant corner.
Our finances have continued to recover, placing us in a strong position once again. We’re now able to consider returning to the mountains for a gathering, and we’re fortunate to have a solid, dedicated committee running regular events that cater to all members.
Our first event since the last AGM was a fundraiser, organised by Gemma and Marli King, to support their participation in the NSW Stockman’s Challenges — King of the Ranges and Battle on the Bidgee. Despite very wet weather, the event was well supported, and I sincerely thank everyone who came to help, ride, or simply show up in support.
The girls competed on borrowed horses and gained invaluable experience. They later returned to the Man From Snowy River Bush Festival in April, this time with their own horses, more confident and better equipped, a testament to the support and encouragement they’ve received. I think I can confidently say we are all proud of their journey. It was terrific for them to ride alongside fellow Tasmanian competitor Danza Hardwicke and I thank her again for inspiring and encouraging the girls to always be the best they can be.
Our main event – the TMCA Get Together. A massive thank you goes out to all who helped make this a success, especially our generous sponsors, including the Deloraine Branch of Bendigo Bank, and our tireless committee.
This year, we made the move to a new venue, celebrating our mission to preserve and pass on the passion for traditional mountain cattleman horsemanship. With a strong family focus and a full program of events, the weekend was a wonderful celebration of our heritage.
Special thanks to the Gowrie Park Rodeo Committee for trusting us with such a picturesque setting. Our hardworking committee went above and beyond, with particular recognition to Chloe, who invested countless hours, and Jess, whose infectious enthusiasm and fresh ideas brought new energy to our team. Of course, no Get Together would be complete without a story, and the caravan’s wheels falling off will be a tale told at many gatherings to come!
To our competitors, patrons, and sponsors, both long-time supporters and new thank you. We quite literally couldn’t do this without you. Your continued support helps us grow while staying true to our roots, evolving into a modern, relevant celebration of the TMCA spirit.
Agfest has been another fantastic opportunity to showcase who we are and what we do. Thanks to our riders and members who volunteered their time to make the Equine Demonstrations such a standout success.
Our Dublin Plains Walk was also well attended, and by all reports, thoroughly enjoyed. A big thank you to Ross and Jess for pulling it all together.
In May, Charlie Rundle generously hosted a successful training day at his beautiful Melrose property — we are so fortunate to have been welcomed to such a great property.
Although the July training day was unfortunately washed out by some very welcome rain, the good news is it will be rescheduled. A great deal of effort has already gone into building new training facilities, and we look forward to making the most of them.
Our tradition of storytelling continues to thrive, especially with the recent resurgence of poetry. A major initiative currently underway is the TMCA 40th Anniversary Book — a huge undertaking, and we are grateful to Jess and Judy for taking on the bulk of the coordination.
Our new website continues to grow, providing a central hub of information. Facebook remains a key communication tool, and the addition of an Instagram page (thanks Gemma) is helping us reach and engage with a wider audience, young and old alike.
Planning is already well underway for the next Get Together, scheduled for 30 January – 1 February 2026. This time, we’re excited to gather at a new host property in Billopp, with heartfelt thanks in advance to the Green family for welcoming us.
As I step down from the President’s role and into a support position within the Committee, I do so with great pride and optimism. The TMCA is in good hands, and I’m confident that the organisation will continue to grow, preserving our history while embracing the future.
Thank you all for your trust, your support, and your shared love for what we stand for.
Warm regards,
Tanya King
President, TMCA