20 January 2026
Passionate western riders and supporters gathered at Moora Racecourse Reserve in November for One Last Ride, an annual event held to honour the life of respected western rider and mentor Steve Nikolic, who passed away from prostate cancer several years ago.
The event raises vital funds and awareness for prostate cancer, supporting men and families affected by the disease while ensuring Steve’s legacy continues to ride on.
“From the beginning, Steve stood out. He was a tall man, but you never felt intimidated by him," event organiser, Carina, said.
“He had a way of lifting people up around him, around horses and around people.”
Steve was a highly respected horseman within Australia’s western riding community, particularly in reining and reined cow horse disciplines.
But more than his skill in the saddle, it was his generosity, quiet leadership and genuine kindness that left a lasting impression.
“His horsemanship reflected who he was as a person,” Carina said.
“With Steve, it was always a partnership with his horses and with people. You could tell the horses trusted him. They enjoyed being ridden by him.”
Steve and Kate were deeply involved in horse associations across Victoria and Australia, never just turning up to compete, but always giving back, offering guidance when asked, supporting clubs, and showing up for others without seeking recognition.
When Steve passed away from prostate cancer several years ago, Kate needed time to grieve privately. Eventually, she approached Karina with an idea: a gathering to honour Steve’s life and bring people together in his memory.
From that conversation, One Last Ride was born.
Held at the Moora Recreation Reserve near Rushworth, the event was deliberately simple. There were no entry fees and no pressure to participate.
“Some people brought horses, some didn’t. Many camped overnight. We shared stories, sang karaoke, and had a drink in Steve’s memory. It was about connection.”
The event raised more than $1,700 for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, well above its original goal, but for Carina, the real impact went beyond fundraising.
“It really drew my attention to prostate cancer,” she said.
“And how important awareness is.”
Carina took the idea to the board of the Victorian Reined Cowhorse Association, which she founded and now leads as president. The decision was unanimous.
From now on, the association will host an annual prostate cancer fundraising event toward the end of each year, not always One Last Ride, but always centred on sharing stories, raising awareness, and supporting men and families affected by prostate cancer.
“Sharing stories matters,” Carina said.
“Demystifying cancer, mental health, trauma, and letting people know support is out there, that’s just as important as the money.”
For Kate, the decision to honour Steve through prostate cancer fundraising felt right from the start.
“There was never any other option,” Carina added. “This was exactly what she wanted.”
Today, One Last Ride stands as a strong reminder of what community can achieve and how one man’s legacy can continue to save lives.
“Kate allowed us to share Steve with us one last time, and that meant everything.”
To support One Last Ride with Steve and raise funds for prostate cancer research, awareness and support services, visit the fundraising page and make a donation today.
