The communities of Harden and Gundagai are in mourning after Gundagai man Luke Dowell passed away in a tragic car accident on the Wantabadgery road last Tuesday night. Luke Dowell was a terrific horseman, farrier and partner to Kerrie Stewart and father to twins Stella and Angus.
He was a promising footballer, however, it was the call of horses which took him away from rugby league and he never looked back. Luke began riding bulls at 16 years of age but it was his passion for horses and the connection he had with them that left many in awe of his abilities. His manner was cool and calm, he didn’t have to be rough with them, they wanted to please him.
He was well-known for riding his stallion indoors and drinking a beer whilst playing up to the crowd on his gold trail re-enactment adventures. Luke mixed the fun he had with re-enactments with the respect he shared for the Australian Light Horse. He was President of the local Light Horse Troop in Gundagai and a Director of the Australian Light Horse Association.
Luke Dowell will be sorely missed by those who knew him. His smile lit up the room like no other. The laid back country boy with a love for horses and family will not be forgotten. Luke Dowell was one of the best. A support page has been set up for Kerrie and the twins. Donations can be made at the Bendigo Bank Gundagai for anyone who would like to kindly make a donation. Account Name: ATF Kerrie Stewart BSB: 633 000 ACC: 161065478
