After several years of sporadic school chaplaincy services, the Clermont and Capella communities banded together and saddled up their horses last month to raise almost $7000 to support this vital service that has returned with strength.
About 50 riders with 10 support crew, including students, teachers, parents and chaplains, took part in the 57km Scripture Union Queensland Clermont to Capella Horse Ride on Friday and Saturday, September 14 and 15.
Organised jointly by the Clermont and Capella Combined Chaplaincy Committees and supported by the schools’ P&Cs, local businesses and churches, the funds raised will support the chappies at Clermont State School, Clermont High School, Capella State School and Capella High School, Anne Nixon and Helen Farrell.
Clermont Local Chaplaincy Committee chairperson, Rebecca Allen-Ankins, said the event used to be a regular fundraiser but hadn’t been held for four years due to a lack of school chaplains in Capella and Clermont schools.
“We’re very fortunate to have chappies in our schools now and we want to do all we can to support them and make sure they have what they need to keep doing the amazing work they’re doing,” Mrs Allen-Ankins said.
“Particularly with the drought around here, it’s really important that the students, teachers and parents have someone to lean on and talk to when they’re struggling.
“Chappies are so important to our community and they do so much, by having conversations with people who need to talk, organising meals for families who need a helping hand, and running a range of programs to really encourage and build up their students.”
The ride started at 5am at the Clermont Showgrounds and the weary riders were welcomed at the Capella Undercover Arena with a variety talent show.
“The fun kept going on Saturday with horse sports, run by the Capella Pony Club, in the Capella Undercover Arena,” she said.
“We’re hoping to hold the Clermont to Capella Horse Ride fundraiser every two years to support our Clermont and Capella chappies, and we’re so thankful for the local support we’ve received so far.”