Mr Parberry joined the Trust in the early 80s, citing a need to further the condition of the Dorrigo Showgrounds, and since then has held executive positions, both as treasurer and president.

“I joined the trust to try and keep a facility for the horse people,” Mr Parberry said. “Our showgrounds were being neglected, and I felt that joining the Trust was going to help us continue holding horse events in the future.”

His initial goal of improving the showground facilities then evolved into something much greater as he became a prominent member of the Trust for more than three decades.

“I loved working with the people that were here (on the Trust),” he said. “They were such good people and everyone worked so hard that you felt you had to be loyal and stay here. In saying that, I really enjoyed my time on the Trust.”

Current Trust president Wayne Burley said that Ron was genuine, which helped him forge good working relationships with all those around him, and his services would be missed.

“Ron has special personal qualities, he is very receptive and encouraging to the ideas and opinions of other Trust members, and he was able to bring together balanced views to all decisions,” Mr Burley said.

Mr Parberry has now retired from any official role on Trust and is looking forward to continue his passion for horse sports.

“I’ve been a long-time member of the Australian Bushman’s Carnival and Rodeo Association, so I decided to take a position on that. I thought that I’ve contributed a fair bit to the Dorrigo Community, and I’d just like to try something else,” he said.