The annual event attracted more than 140 riders on Saturday which, in turn, benefited the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) to the tune of $20,000.

“It was a great day; and everything went well,” treasurer Mark Judge said.

“We’re very happy with the result.

“We raised $6000 from the auction alone, with Stan and Mark Ray’s [chainsaw] items bringing in $1500.

“Their ongoing support is tremendous.

“We had one rider who travelled from Tasmania; while the youngest was seven years old and the oldest a spritely 80.

“So, it’s a wonderful demographic – and part of the ride’s appeal.

“On top of that, we enjoyed excellent catering and marvellous entertainment afterwards.

“And, it’s all for a good cause.”

Another highlight of the weekend was a special presentation to Muswellbrook paramedic Tim Harris, for his many years of service.

“The committee decided to give him an award,” Mr Judge said.

“Tim’s been involved in the charity ride for the past 14 years.

“So, it was our way of saying ‘thank you’.”

Over the past two decades, the Sandy Hollow Charity Horse Ride has boosted the WRHS’s coffers by more than $360,000.

It’s a remarkable achievement for president Mick Turner and his executive.

“We’re only a small committee, so it’s terrific when it all falls into place,” Mr Judge said.

“It costs a fair bit of money to send out the helicopter but what we’ve raised [this year] will pay for a couple of trips.

“There are a lot of horse studs out here, a lot of miners, a lot of farmers and you don’t realise how important the WRHS is until you need it.

“Although, you’d rather not see the helicopter in the air.

“Our thanks go to our sponsors – the horse studs, Yancoal and the Sandy Hollow Tourist Hotel – for their support, too.”