Casting for Recovery 2018

April 30, 2018

The last weekend of the fishing season was again taken up by the brilliant women from the Casting for Recovery charity.

This was the 6th year we have donated Owen River Lodge to host the CFR South Island retreat. The retreat kicked off late Friday afternoon and went through to mid afternoon Sunday. There were 10 participants, all of whom are at different points of their battle with breast cancer.

They are supported by 2 specialist nurses and a gaggle of “Pink Ladies” – the volunteers that provide the glue to make the whole retreat work.
Friday night was spent getting to know one another and having a fabulous 3 course meal prepared by Ryan our head chef.

After a hearty breakfast, Saturday morning was spent learning to cast and just as in previous CFR events, the heavens opened up as only they can do on the South Island of New Zealand. Never mind, there was massages for all, manicures to be had and fly tying to watch and learn. And then of course there was another 3 course sumptuous feast courtesy of Chef Ryan followed by a group discussion and even a little sing along.

Thankfully, the clouds parted and the sun shone on these very brave women Sunday morning. Each of the retreat participants was guided by one of the 10 fishing guides who volunteered their services for the day.

The four hours on the water went quickly and, as with every retreat we have hosted, wild brown trout were landed ! Then it was back to the lodge for lunch, photos with the guides and that signalled the close of another retreat.

The Casting For Recovery retreat is absolutely the highlight of the season at Owen River Lodge; it fills my heart with joy and sets my spirits soaring.

Felix Borenstein

General Manager & Owner

In memory of Pauline Farrell

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