BackTrack’s boys from the bush showed the Duke and Duchess their best party trick in Dubbo.
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Armidale’s own Bernie Shakeshaft met the royals during the downpour on Wednesday and showed Prince Harry the dog program that changes young people’s lives.
Prince Harry himself had a crack at high jumping one of the program’s pups in front of a crowd of thousands.
“They were really down to Earth, just the way they chatted – the boys didn’t know how to address them but nothing phased them,” Mr Shakeshaft said.
“They’re very down to Earth and real people which is not what you’d expect.”
There were about 120 people in the VIP area so the royals didn’t have too much time to spare with everyone – but managed to stop and chat to the BackTrack boys for a few minutes on the day.
The BackTrack program aims to rehabilitate troubled or disadvantaged young people to get back into education or work and began in the New England.
Mr Shakeshaft said Prince Harry was a natural with their jumping dog, Bindi.
“That was pretty amusing, but I think it was really interesting for them to watch the kids,” he said.
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“Two minutes before they got there the heavens opened up – it was a bloody terrific day.
“It was very wet, holy smokes there was a bit of rain.”
Mr Shakeshaft is opening a BackTrack program in Dubbo, and the royals will continue to tour Australia, including a stop at the Invictus Games wheelchair basketball final, until they return on October 27.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
