While we cherish all of our guests here at the ranch, one recent visitor held a special place in our hearts.
As a team comprised of 99% women, we sing Lainey Wilson songs loud. From birthdays to breakups and everything in between, Lainey serves as an inspiration to our team and a remarkable role model.
When my daughter Keely mentioned that the song “Atta Girl” was her go-to during tough times in love, it warmed my heart to know that she found solace in the lyrics: “Atta girl, who has a damn good heart and some big dreams up ahead.”
Lainey embodies the spirit of a true cowgirl – she can ride a horse, drive a tractor, and knows “a few things a man oughtta know”.
To say we were thrilled to get the call that she was wanting a ride while on one of her very rare days off here in Australia, would be an understatement. 4 riders after quarterhorse types, we knew the assignment.
While there was playful consideration of bringing out Nash, our mini pony, as a “quarter of a horse,” Chuck proved to be the perfect steed for our esteemed guest.
Chuck has been living a pretty cruisey life born and raised here at Darkes Forest, he is trained in reining, can chase a cow and has also got a few tricks up his sleeve should we need to pull something out of a hat at anytime.
Lainey and her team arrived to a warm welcome from our guides, maintaining their professionalism despite any inner excitement. It was a seamless introduction: “Nice to meet you, here is the horse you’ll be riding today.”
While it was business as usual at the ranch, some clients may have recognised the familiar face riding around our arena, fresh from the amazing concert they attended the night before. Yet, there was no fanfare – just a beautiful day for a ride.
Our neighbors at Glenbernie Orchard graciously provided an afternoon grazing spread of nibbles, featuring local apples, honey, and ciders. The truffle goat cheese dip was a hit and still mentioned in the days following.
What a treat to have the guys settle in and share a yarn with us. No one was in a hurry, forging new connections that felt like old friends reunited. Lainey even extended an invitation to join her at her final concert in Sydney the following evening.
As we bid farewell, we suggested a scenic drive past Bald Hill to take in our breathtaking coastline. The girls marveled at the hang gliders soaring from the cliffs of Stanwell Tops, a fitting end to an extraordinary day.
Pinch us – it was a day we’ll never forget, and we were proud to share it with an idol.
Keely had her name at the box office for Sunday night’s show – a list of 11 people amidst a sold-out crowd. They would probably sneak us in the side, stand us by the loos maybe. We were stoked, just happy to be there. This was Bridie’s first concert, and boy has the bar been set high!
We were graciously welcomed to hang out with Lainey and her people before the show, enjoying a quick drink and even witnessing a warm-up session featuring Jade and her trusty spoons – a moment that brought laughter and camaraderie. Then it was showtime.
We sang, we danced, we screamed with excitement when Lainey acknowledged the handmade Guitar Strap crafted by Jules, and praised Darkes Forest as hardworking blue collar people. It was truly the most unforgettable night.
A heartfelt thanks to everyone involved – the incredibly talented and inspiring Lainey Wilson, Mandelyn, Mike, and Erick, Tracey, Tara, Pip, Susan, and Frontier Touring, Joanne Fahey and Glenbernie Orchard, the phenomenal band, and my dedicated team at Darkes Forest Ranch. You all make me proud every single day. “My kinda crazies still runnin’ its courses, with Wildflowers & Wild horses.”
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