With the country in North West Queensland looking as good as it can in September, it was a pleasure to take a drive south of Hughenden. The downs country is exceptional when blessed with a good season, there could be no better conditions for a bush wedding.
‘Rockwood’ is one of the original properties in the area, in 1882 the intrepid settlers used their environment to their advantage when building the house. All the stone was quarried off ‘Rockwood’ and ant bed was used as mortar. Some of the structures are standing and in great condition.
Big Skies & Little Cowboys
With the front garden ceremony site providing a fabulous view of the downs and the shed decked out for celebration, it was clear to see that a tremendous amount of elbow grease had been put to use for Anna & Ross’ big day.
Little Clancy, 4 months old and for sure a ringer in the making, had no idea of the fuss that was unfolding around him as his Mum & Dad declared their commitment to each other. One of my favourite photos for the day is of Anna feeding Clancy at the head table.
The bridal party made the absolute most of the opportunity to have a whale of a time, Chaz & Pugsley even resorting to swopping outfits for their reception entrance, to great applause from the appreciative audience!
How did you two meet and what were your first impressions?
In Longreach when we both worked for Tom (Anna’s brother) and Belinda McLeish. Anna was looking after her niece and nephews I was running their nutrition business. We started to get to know each other when Anna needed some adult time and I brought up a few beers from the shed. My first impression of Anna was will you look at this bubbly blondie from Mexico. My first impression of Ross was a rough looking ringer with a huge goofy grin, however impressions were quickly flattened as I realised how intelligent he was when he spoke of his work.
How did he/she propose?
Arriving back from Bull and Chaz’s wedding as Anna drove in I was on one knee holding Hank the tank our hound in one arm holding a ring in the other. As she stepped out I asked “my darling will you marry me? Anna was that surprised and excited she got down on her knee as well and I had to tell her I’m the one who is supposed to be down here. Once she realised what I was asking she stood up and said yes. I then had to ask her to help me up as I had busted my knee in a pre wedding footy game at Bull and Chaz’s wedding.
What do you love most about each other?
A: I love his big cheeky grin. I love the way he can always make me laugh, even when I really DONT want to. I love that I feel safe in all situations when I am with him. I love the way he looks after people and always has time for them. I love when he makes me cups of tea in bed. I love how knowledgeable he is about so many different facets of life.
R: Everything. Well nearly she can be pretty bossy but we Tindall’s need that from time to time. I love her drive in life and her positivity. I love her laugh, the way she glows when she holds a baby or sees her family. Her ideas on making us a home and how she turned a rough neck in to someone that has a purpose.
I'd love to hear one special memory of your courtship...what moment/day/event stands out for you?
We had finally finished a big round of branding weaners. It was my birthday, we knocked off in time for afternoon beers and to have a shower and to head in to Winton as Ross said he wanted to shout me dinner. As we left Cooinda (Tom and Bin’s place) we drove along the highway to Winton, all of a sudden some black Wagyu cattle came into view. We looked at each other knowing exactly whose cattle were out on the highway. So we pulled off the side of the road into the table drain and started backing off the bikes. I went to pull mine off and Ross looked at me in my skirt and said “Don’t worry Darl, I’ve got this. No one else needs to be seeing your knickers!”
What Does Marriage Mean To You?
It means choosing our team mate for the rest of our lives. Having that one person who is concreted in your life to back you whenever and wherever.
What was the main inspiration behind your wedding day?
To share our love.
How would you describe your day? How did you feel?
The day was romantic and hilarious.
What was your favourite part of the wedding day?
Our favourite part of the day was having our little man Clancy up the front with us and myself as a bride walking towards my soon to be husband and my baby Clancy
How does it feel to be Mr & Mrs?!
We feel very lucky and privileged and incredibly happy
Anna’s dress: ShowPro
Anna’s shoes: Pizzazz Boutique
Ross & Groomsmen’s outfits: Gympie Saddleworld Otaa Circlel Australia
Bridesmaids: Minel
Hair & Makeup: Beautique Hair Lounge
Annas Rings: Wallace Bishop
Anna, Bridesmaids and Mother of The Bride Earrings: Outback Jack Designs
Flowers: Outback Jack Designs
Cake: Chelsea Smith (Ross’ cousin)
Celebrant: Nancy Savage
Caterer: Nathan Frost Smoking Ceremonies
Cars: Bride and Grooms Prado John and Janene Wearing’s Landcruiser Wagon
DJ/music: Karizma
Master of Ceremonies: Ted Ellison
Venue: ‘Rockwood’, Hughenden
