October Midweek Run: Good Times, Country Roads, and a Mission of Kindness
A big thank you goes to Brian and Linda Annison for stepping up and successfully leading the September run in my absence; by all accounts, everyone had a ball and headed home weighed down with a grand selection of small goods.
Our October Midweek Run got off to a flying start with some of us meeting up at Bourkies Bakehouse in Woodend. As always, Bourkies brought out the best in everyone-with hot coffee, laughter, and swapping travel stories from members who had only recently returned from overseas. For those who decided that their morning tea isn't right without a sweet treat, the choice of treats was exceptional as always.
From Woodend, it was a short, picturesque drive past the iconic Hanging Rock-a place that holds a special spot in all our hearts as we build up anticipation for our upcoming 40th Picnic there. Cruising past the striking rock formations and past the home of my predecessor, John Van G, we pushed onward and upward into the hamlet of Newham and onto Three Chain Road. We wound our way through the timbered backroads toward Bridies Lane, the home of Edgar's Mission Farm Animal Sanctuary.
We were immediately struck by how beautifully designed and well-planned the expansive property is. Our cheery guide welcomed us to the unique property and shared the inspiring evolution of the sanctuary. While extra biosecurity precautions due to seasonal avian influenza (bird flu) meant we couldn't interact with the chickens directly, a stroll through the property quickly lifted our spirits. In the sheep paddock, the residents eagerly lined up for hand-delivered Weet-Bix snacks, and in the cattle pasture, we learned about the deep bonds mothers share with their calves. Our final stop was the pig barn, where we heard the story of Edgar himself-the tiny piglet from the movie Babe whose uncertain future prompted Pam Ahern to found the sanctuary. Several members were amazed to see just how large and majestic the pigs grow when allowed to live out a full, natural life. Better yet, we were invited into the enclosure to give the very happy pigs a few well-deserved belly scratches. We also learned more about the other animal residents who call the sanctuary home-including goats, horses, ponies, turkeys, and a pair of extra cute donkeys named "Hamish & Andy". Many of these beautiful creatures have been saved from difficult backgrounds in the dairy industry or abattoirs, finding a true safe haven here. It left all of us with a renewed appreciation for the animals that share our world and the lives they lead.
To round out a wonderful day, we gathered for a delicious, chatty lunch at the cozy 1860 in Romsey. We each contributed a small personal donation to enter, and a sincere thank you goes to the club, which will be matching the total amount collected to support this beautiful sanctuary.
