The Lovicks have lived at Merrijig, on the Delatite River, for six generations since William Lovick settled there in 1860 and built the Merrijig Hotel in 1873.  The family became the first mountain cattlemen of the region, driving their herds up into the High Country each spring for nearly 150 years.

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Their knowledge of the country and their horsemanship soon became legendary, passed down through each generation. They became the guardians of the mountains, their spirit of adventure symbolising the rugged, independent Australian ideal. They became as famous as the landscape itself.

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In 1967 the Lovicks began offering their horseback riding tours, and through this Charlie met the film producers looking to make a quintessential Australian movie, not of the red dust of the Outback, but of the snow and the blue and green hues of the mountains and the mist that settles on them.

It was called The Man from Snowy River, loosely based on Banjo Paterson’s famous poem, and Charlie, the very definition of a bushie, was given the grand title of “Master of Horse”. He appeared as one of the crack riders chasing the wild brumbies.  His main role, though, was to bring the breathtaking riding of the mountain men to the big screen. The legend was secured. And for 51 years people have flocked to the Lovicks’ trail rides to learn and bask in that glory.

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Since closing their trail ride business down. They continue to offer three iconic properties from “The Farm” in heart of Merrijig, “The Hideout” on the banks of the lower Howqua River to “Seeforth Station” at the foothills of the Great Dividing Range of Victoria. Each property offers its own special unique style to cater to all different walks of life. The Farm is currently closed for renovations and the Hideout has exciting updates planned during the winter period. 

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Charlie and Kellie remain passionate about sharing their backyard and bringing authentic high country experiences to as many people as possible.