Abbi & Rory

Here we are!  Two forty something city types who have just done ‘the tree change thing’ to country NSW..... and loving it!  Andrew is enthusiastically collecting big boys’ toys.  In contrast, I am gathering all the animals my Dad said ‘no’ to when I was young.  We already had two golden retrievers when we moved, but the ‘barnyard in our backyard’ really started with chickens, geese and ducks.  Having gained confidence in caring for an extended ‘family’, I thought it was time to pursue a long term love: donkeys!  I have loved donkeys since I was six and was lucky enough to have a ride on one (even though the ride did not go well – the donkey laid down mid ride and started a dust bath with me still in the saddle – I wanted to ‘stay aboard’ but Mum was quick to pull me off – Mums get stressed like that!).  And so, the research started and went on and on until two, independent sources recommended Sarah-Jane’s Ashington Park donkeys. 

I was particularly after small, calm animals because we are planning a B & B for people with mobility difficulties, especially the wheelchairers.  We are keen to provide a chair friendly environment where our guests can comfortably access chicken boxes for eggs, raised beds for veggies and interact with all our animals.  These requirements and my own Irish roots led us to Irish donkeys, and the Loveridge family had just what we needed (or is that wanted? No, needed!)  I emailed Sarah-Jane outlining our plans and she very excited rang back.  I think we are kindred spirits in our love for animals and our need to share it with others.  Furthermore, her donkeys are already wheelchair familiar because her beautiful daughter, Georgie, frequently utilises a chair around their property – I couldn’t believe our good fortune.

So, the ‘expectant parent’ period commenced.   Finally, July arrived and so did two beautiful bubs: Abbi (as named by Georgina) and Rory (as suggested by us, approved by Georgina).  Receiving the emails and picture up-dates from Sarah-Jane has been an ongoing delight and just added to the anticipation of our 6 month old bubs arriving in Rylstone in February.  At last, February: finely appointed stable finished, feed ready and me bursting with anticipation!  And so, utilising Sarah-Jane’s recommended transport man, our Irish beauties entered our lives and hearts.  From the moment the transport’s door was opened, the donkeys have gently responded to Andrew and I and the ‘Bray Pack’ as we refer to the two goldens and the two pet sheep.

The beautiful two have settled in so well and are a joy to have breakfast with, watch throughout the day and cuddle when they come to the back door.  Rory is such a little brother: he chases and jostles Abbi constantly and she responds by choosing intricate circuits around the paddocks for the pursuit.  Much time is also spent muzzling and gently biting each other.  The ‘Bray Pack’ now has six members, including the donkeys and a friend’s photo of Abbi smooching Angus, the sheep has just won a prize at the Rylstone Show.

And, in case you didn’t notice, we really can quote the Ashington Park motto: “Where the things that Bray will simply steel your heart a way” …..it was meant to be!

Lolly

 As a teenager, I always wanted a donkey. I had always been around horses, and donkeys were not regularly seen.

I had since started a family and moved from the Burbs to the Country, to which we have horses and domestic animals.

One day whilst surfing the internet, we came across Ashington Park stud. WOW was I impressed!!

My husband and I looked at all those gorgeous Miniature Irish Donkeys, and we decided to call Sarah-Jayne. Unfortunately, at the time, most donkeys were sold, and there was a wait for others to be available.

We sat still, and thought we would check from time to time and see if anything came up down the track.

Six weeks had past since contacting Ashington Park Stud, when we received a phone call. It was Sarah-Jayne.  Sarah-Jayne had contacted us in regards to Lolly. Sarah explained to us that, she had sold one of her miniature donkeys to a couple that lived near Lightening Ridge. Lolly was purchased as a gift, and unfortunately they could not spend time with her.

My husband and I were so happy, that we agreed to take Lolly on.

We have had Lolly for a few weeks now. She is so loving to all the family, and has adapted very well with the horses. Every day is a new experience, and her personality is much bigger than her size.

Sarah-Jayne has been extremely helpful. She has given us loads of friendly advice, and great information.

I highly recommend Ashington Park Stud to anyone who is considering entering the world of Irish/Miniature Donkeys.

Thankyou again Sarah-Jayne. Our adventure is far better than we ever imagined.

Benji & Bailey

I first came in contact with Sarah-Jane by an advertisement in the Trading post. I always wanted a donkey but had no idea they came in miniature. Sarah-Jane had a lay by system which suited me perfect at the time and my boy Benji was only 4 weeks so I had plenty of time to pay him off. Sarah-Jane was wonderful and helpful with the process of purchase and my boy was worth the wait. I love donkeys so much I purchased Benji and Bailey, so now I own two. I highly recommend purchasing two as my boys are inseparable and are perfect together. They play, eat, sleep and they are very happy. My boys are more than I imagined, they are loving, playful and the perfect pet. Sarah-Jane and Stewart were fantastic to deal with in regards to information and advice. And the best thing is I know I can call them any time for advice and help which is invaluable as I am still learning how to be a great miniature donkey owner.