The riders were met with crisp temperatures and an overcast day, but spirits were still high as the hounds were released and almost immediately were on to a scent trail.

The followers barely had time to digest the stirrup cup before they were in to the 4WDs and following the hunt at a respectable distance.

The site of black riding jackets interspersed with some “red coats” following the pack of harrier and fox hounds was a magnificent spectacle.

The hounds and riders covered a large amount of the large Canyonleigh property, chasing up a number of fast running foxes.

With riders ranging from 70-something Jack Gallagher to teenagers, the hunt provided something for everyone.

The Huntsman Les Hutchison, ably assisted by his first whip Sally Linnane, fielded a robust pack of 14 hounds or otherwise known in hunting terms as “seven couple”.

These hounds performed admirably over hill and dale and the entire field were out for some four hours.

As some new riders commented, it was certainly value for money and they would be back again with more friends.

But it had to finally end and after the horses were seen to all, those present settled down to some food and drink and the company of many stories both true and imagined.