Around The Stables - August 2023

As we bid farewell to the chilly winter months and eagerly anticipate spring blossoming, it's a perfect time to reflect on the remarkable events of the past few months.

The GM Specialty Vehicles Melbourne International 3-Day Event once more marked a triumphant highlight of the winter season - this year with record crowds! Once again, the Eventing Victoria family showcased their impeccable organisation and dedication, making this event a resounding success. With an atmosphere charged with excitement – riders, volunteers, support crews, sponsors, traders, and an army of volunteers came together, cementing this as a date on the calendar not to be missed.

Our Awards ceremony brought us together to honour excellence within our ranks. The achievements of our members reflect the dedication and hard work that define our community. For a comprehensive account of the evening's triumphs, turn to the pages ahead.

Looking ahead, the anticipation builds as we gear up for the Marcus Oldham Australian Interschool Championships at the end of September, when nearly 600 young equestrians from all corners of Australia converge upon Werribee Park.

Our NT and WA competitors are searching for Pool Horses, so if you know of a suitable horse or have a connection that could help, please get in touch with Jamie Harding, jamieharding@equestrianvictoria.com.au. Furthermore, we are still looking for sponsors for various classes. This opportunity presents a remarkable chance to showcase your business to an eager audience, including competitors, families, and support crews. Eliza Harvey can assist you in being involved in this year's Championships. Get in touch with her via email: elizaharvey@equestrianvictoria.com.au

Congratulations to each of you for contributing to the success of these events. Your support and enthusiasm are the lifeblood of our organisation, and it's gratifying to witness the positive impact you continue to make.

Lastly, I'd like to highlight the impending Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held on 15 November. Keep an eye on our website and social channels for forthcoming details. The AGM is your chance to engage in the future of our organisation, and your input is invaluable.

I hope you have a fabulous month ahead. Until then, safe riding.

Celebrating Success:

A Night to Remember

What a night!

The Arts Centre Melbourne had an air of excitement, which was the perfect backdrop to reconnect with friends in a more laid-back atmosphere than usual. It was a pleasant shift from our typical jodhpurs, puffer jackets, and helmet-induced equestrian hairstyles, revealing the glamorous side of our community.

We celebrated some genuinely incredible performances and heartfelt moments, all thanks to the expert guidance of our MC Extraordinaire Dan Barnett, who kept the night on track and ensured we had plenty of time to socialise.

Special congratulations to the inspiring winners of each award. Each year we are fortunate to be able to acknowledge outstanding performances and efforts across all disciplines, and this year was no exception. Visit EVArena to view a full list of this year's winners:

MEET OUR WINNERS

We must also acknowledge the recipients of our special awards – Hall of Fame, Lifetime Service, and Life Membership.

These honourees have contributed immeasurably to our sport and left an indelible mark on many in the equestrian world. Their dedication and hard work have set an example for us all to follow, and we are proud to recognise their outstanding contributions.

Hall of Fame

Helen Heagney

Laurie Lever

Lifetime Service

Lee Howells

Robbie Allen

Neil Clinton

Life Members

Emma Booth

Simone Pearce

OUR SPONSORS

Without our Awards sponsors, the evening would not have been possible, so we extend a heartfelt thank you and hope you enjoyed the evening as much as we did and would love to see you again at next year's event.

Lastly we can't neglect to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the EV staff and their families - their hard work behind the scenes to ensure that the evening's proceedings went off without a hitch was second to none.

For the 2024 Awards we're aiming for an even bigger venue with more floor space for those epic dance moves we witnessed.

So, mark 10 August 2024 in your calendar, stick a reminder on your fridge, tie a string around your finger – whatever it takes to make sure you're there. Trust us, the FOMO struggle will be real!

Thank You

Helen is an exceptional equestrian with a distinguished track record, including victories in prestigious competitions and representing Australia internationally. As an A Level Dressage Judge and Judge Educator, she plays a vital role in upholding standards and training future judges.

Helen's contributions extend to the Show Horse community, and her expertise in the racing industry and horse breeding adds depth to her impressive background. Overall, she is a highly respected and versatile figure in the equestrian world, known for her expertise, dedication, and numerous accomplishments.

Laurie Lever made history in 2008 as one of only three Australians aged 60 or older to compete in the Olympics, joining the Beijing Team as its oldest member.

Laurie's lifelong passion for riding began at the age of 10 and has remained unwavering. Together with his wife, he manages an equestrian training centre in Victoria, passing on their expertise to aspiring riders and creating a true equestrian legacy within their family. Laurie's Olympic representation and continued commitment to the sport serve as an inspiration, proving that dedication and skill can overcome age barriers.

A pioneer for dressage education in Victoria, Lee is a committed and highly regarded Dressage judge. She has worked tirelessly to keep all Victorian officials connected and educated, working with the DOEC to offer numerous international and national education opportunities.

One of the first to advocate and innovate education using online learning, we are immensely grateful for the work Lee has done within the education landscape in Victoria.

Robbie's true talent emerged as a coach and supporter of young riders, where he dedicated himself to helping and encouraging kids, making a remarkable difference.

With a successful riding career that spanned various levels, including the World Cup, Robbie's achievements and impact in the equestrian community are undeniable.

Neil, a third-generation horseman, known for his fair but firm approach, has mentored and guided national officials while officiating at prestigious international events, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Australian Equestrian Team / Libby Law

Membership Matters

ANNUAL GENERAL

MEETING

Please mark your calendars and save the date for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM)!

📢 Date: Wednesday, 15 November

🕒 Time: 7:30 pm

📍 Location: Online via Teams

Whether you're a long-standing member or a new addition to our community, your input matters, and the AGM is a fantastic chance to be involved in shaping our future. We'll discuss key achievements and plans, plus elect new members to the Board.

Stay tuned for more details, including the agenda and any necessary documents.

Membership Matters

Snippets

2023-4 MEMBERSHIP

The new financial year is well under way and we have had a fantastic uptake on memberships already! We would like to extend our thanks to all our riders, supporters, coaches, officials, clubs, societies and affiliates. The success of Equestrian Victoria, the events and activities we organise to cater to our wide demographic, would not be possible without your continuous support.

Furthermore, we would like to welcome all new members and are excited to see new faces in our ever growing equestrian community.

The team at Equestrian Victoria is looking forward to creating amazing experiences to share with all of you across our various disciplines in the coming year. Keep your eyes peeled on our website and Facebook pages for the latest updates and future events coming your way!

As always, we strive to support the interests of our members. Need to get in touch with us? An updated contact list can be found on our website.

THANK YOU, EMILY!

Of course with the opening of the new membership year, it was all hands on deck to process and assist everyone with their renewals and new registrations.

The Equestrian Victoria team was extremely grateful to have Emily Kiefer, who took up the Admin Support role for the past two months to help us get through this busy period.

Your assistance was invaluable and you were a positive force in the EV office.

We wish you all the best!

Membership Matters

New Appointments

COACHING COMMITTEE

Leanne Williams

EV Coaching Committee

Co-opted member

Derek O'Leary

SPORTFOT

Amy Kemp

EV Coaching Committee

Co-opted member

Coaching

Mark Your Calendars!

2 DAY INTRODUCTORY COACHING WORKSHOP

21-22 September @ Whittlesea

Introductory only - This course is for candidates who have completed the Introductory Riding and Horse Management certificates and are looking to begin their career pathway as an EA Coach!

PROGRESSIVE ASSESSMENT DAY

22 November @ WPNEC

This event is for members/coaches who are ready and would like to have their assessment slips signed off. Available for Introductory, Level 1 and Level 2 Riding, Horse Management and Coaching.

Details to follow on the EV website and Facebook page. Contact Judith Li for more information.

Event Spotlight

GM SPECIALTY VEHICLES MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL 3DE

The long weekend in June again provided a thrilling few days of eventing, showcasing some of Australia’s finest event riders and horses battling it out at Werribee Park. One of Victoria’s most popular equestrian events, the MI3DE saw thousands of spectators attending over the four days of competition which had the grounds bustling with activity, especially on Cross country day.

MI3DE was founded in 1957 and originally held during the Royal Melbourne Show. In those times, the dressage was run on the Flemington Racecourse, cross country at Oaklands Hunt Club and show jumping on the main Show arena.

For many years now Werribee Park has played host to this event, with the Parks precinct providing a beautiful backdrop for riders, horses and spectators on cross country day.

This event would not have been made possible without the wonderful support from a number of incredible companies and individuals. In 2023 we welcomed GM Specialty Vehicles as the naming rights sponsor, showcasing their new 2023 model Chevrolet Silverado 1500 range. With floats getting bigger and goosenecks gaining popularity, horse owners need to make sure they are travelling their horses in a safe and compliant manner.

Pryde’s EasiFeed have sponsored the CCI4*L for many years and the same can be said of Racing Victoria's Off The Track, sponsor of the CCIJ2* and CCI2*. This year, 4CYTE joined us as sponsor of the CCI3*L.

Thanks to GMSV, our class sponsors and a host of partner and cross-country sponsors, we were able to deliver yet another successful MI3DE!

Huge thanks are also due to Parks Victoria for generously allowing us to wind our cross-country course through the spectacular Mansion Gardens and back through the Rose Gardens, delivering a unique experience for competitors and spectators. Always a highlight of this event!

It goes without saying that it takes an army of people to run a competition of this scale, to work behind the scenes and make this event happen! To the Committee, Course Builders, Officials, Equestrian Victoria, Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre and a huge band of volunteers, we thank you for your contributions and tireless efforts!

Congratulations to all winners and we commend the efforts of everyone who came from across the country to participate. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2024!

Eva Shore & Indarra Baci received the Gillian Rolton Award for closest to optimum time with no jumping penalties in the OTTB CCIJ2*L

Photos by: Michelle Terlato

Click the logo for the full results:

Olivia Barton riding Hollyander HG took out top honours in the Pryde’s EasiFeed CCI4*L class – seen here jumping the GMSV complex in front the The Mansion

Seasoned rider and coach, Will Enzinger, took home the win in the OTT CCI2*L riding 8yo NZ Warmblood, Epic Xtreme.

Young Victorian rider, Avril Charman, astride Annabella come out victorious in the OTT CCIJ2*L in her Melbourne International 3 Day Event debut

Photos by: Michelle Terlato

Teegan Ashby and Magic Mushroom (OTT) won the 4CYTE CCI3*L class and was also presented with the Best Performed OTT rug by OTT ambassador, Amanda Ross, who also happened to have the Melbourne Cup on hand.

Recipient of the Caitlyn Fischer Memorial Award, Bronte Bravo, who was the best performing Young Rider in the 4CYTE CCI3*L, finishing 6th riding Carisbrooke Showtime.

Photos by: Michelle Terlato

Event Spotlight

2023 Marcus Oldham

Australian Interschool

Championships

We thank Marcus Oldham for their generous sponsorship of the Australian Interschool Championships. Marcus Oldham has supported this event for an extended period and remains dedicated to empowering young individuals to accomplish their equestrian aspirations.

We are also delighted to acknowledge Hygain for their sponsorship of the Eventing discipline. Their commitment to the sport adds a valuable dimension to the championships.

The event is actively seeking additional sponsors, particularly for the cross-country jumps segment. This presents a remarkable opportunity for sponsors to get involved in supporting an exceptional event that attracts over 550 riders from all across Australia. The disciplines showcased in the championships include Dressage, Jumping, Eventing, Combined Training, and Show Horse.

For more detailed sponsorship information, kindly refer to the sponsorship PDF linked below. Your support will play a significant role in making this event a resounding success.

For more information on the sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website.

VISIT EVENT WEBSITE

ARE YOU IN POSSESSION OF A SUITABLE POOL HORSE?

Some riders from Western Australia and Northern Territory require pool horses for Dressage, Jumping, Show Horse, and Combined Training, given the extensive travel distances they must cover. However, pool horses are not permitted for Eventing.

Each pool horse used requires a fixed payment fee of $600, while the rider is responsible for all stabling and entry costs.

Interstate riders would greatly appreciate the assistance of families willing to offer a horse. We will establish effective communication between the rider and the horse owner to ensure a suitable match and clarify responsibilities.

EVENT SCHEDULE

Show Horse

Saturday, 30th September

Primary & Secondary Combined Training

Saturday, 30th September and Sunday, 1st October

Eventing

Saturday, 30th September to Monday, 2nd October

Jumping

Sunday, 1st October to Tuesday, 3rd October

Dressage

Sunday, 1st October to Tuesday, 3rd October

Riders must have approval from their State Team and adhere to relevant MERs or horse grading points. Please note that some interstate riders are procuring horses privately and are not part of the pool horse system.

If you are interested or have any inquiries, kindly register with Jamie Harding or contact isv@equestrianvictoria.com.au.

Your support and participation are greatly valued.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

OFF THE TRACK

For eventers – as well as those in other disciplines – winter is a time when horses enjoy a break and riders are able to take stock of where they are at and how they can work towards next season’s goals.

Victorian eventers Sam Cesnik and Chris Height of Spring Creek Equine are heading towards the end of that ‘down time’. Continue reading on the

OTT Tack Room.

Photo Courtesy Off The Track

Join The Off The Track Community and claim your horse to be eligible for Off TheTrack sponsored classes. The OTT Community is your one-stop shop as a retired racehorse owner, someone looking to purchase an off the track thoroughbred, or for fans of Victorian racehorses.

Claim ownership of your thoroughbred
Access Off The Track Program sponsored events, competitions and clinics
Access Racing Victoria’s post-racing programs and network of Acknowledged Retainers
Register as a thoroughbred’s emergency contact as part of the Full Circle Program
Explore educational hints and tips to best support your Off The Track thoroughbred
Enjoy the latest Off The Track news and videos

In addition to the benefits of joining the Off The Track Community, you’re also playing your part in enabling Racing Victoria to improve visibility and better understand the movement of retired racehorses.

For any queries email info@ottcommunity.com.au.

Discipline News

DRESSAGE

JESSICA DERTELL DEBUTS IN EUROPE

This June, local young rider, Jessica Dertell, represented Australia at the Future Champions Youth Nations Cup in Hagen. Riding the 12 year old chestnut gelding, Gladstone MH, owned by Samantha and Brett Thomas of Sabble Farm, Jessica completed her first Nations Cup with very respectable results, including a 12th place finish in the CDIOY Freestyle.

LL Foto

A huge congratulations to everyone involved and to coach Evelyn Eger, who was there with the team in Germany. We are incredibly proud of Jessica’s achievements and look forward to watching her reach new heights in the dressage world!

UPCOMING COURSES

D&C JUDGES SEMINAR

Presented by Jane Ventura (FEI Level 3(4*), A Level Judge and Judge Educator)
Saturday, 2nd September @ Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre
Bookings can be made via Trybooking

A&B JUDGES SEMINAR (ONLINE - THEORY)

Presented by Jobina Kennedy (FEI Level 2, A Level Judge and Judge Educator)
Wednesday, 29th November
Bookings can be made via Trybooking

A&B JUDGES SEMINAR (PRACTICAL)

Presented by Jobina Kennedy (FEI Level 2, A Level Judge and Judge Educator)
Friday, 8th December @ Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre
Bookings can be made via Trybooking

VICTORIAN AOR CHAMPIONSHIPS

SEPTEMBER 8-9

BONEO PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Hosted by the Victorian AOR Committee

Thank You

Equissage

Racing Victoria's Off The Track

Horseland

Stable Ground

Tweedie and Associates Equine Veterinary Service

International Horse Breeders

The Dancing horse

Petcover

High Horse

Kohnke’s Own

HiForm

Galloping Goop

NRG

Kentucky Equine Research

Duncan Equine

Zuster Equestrian

Montango Lodge Performance Ponies

Mirboo North Medical Centre

Discipline News

Eventing

2024 EVENTING CALENDAR

The Eventing Victoria Committee got together in July with our Affiliated club Organising Committee representatives to finalise the 2024 Calendar. Dates are available on the Eventing Victoria page on the EV website.

SPRING HORSE TRIALS

The 2023 Spring Horse Trials will be held at Werribee Park from 8 – 10 September and WE NEED YOU. Volunteers are needed for a variety of positions, please contact Julie Lithgow via email if you able to help. Keep your eyes peeled on the Spring Horse Trials Facebook page for details.

Updated/new FORMS

Organising Committees!

We have recently published the 2023 Event Incident Response Plan Template and SIM Grab Pack on our website. These resources are intended to be utilised by event organising committees.

Visit Website

Discipline News

JUMPING

EQUESTRIAN VICTORIA / JUMPING VICTORIA STRATEGIC FUND.

Achieving Together: Investing in the Future of Jumping

To ensure the long-term viability and growth of Jumping, the EV Board and JV Committee embraced the recommendations of the Jumping Victoria Strategic Plan published May 2019 (link to plan). This included investing in Jumping Victoria's strategic initiatives, which are essential for sustaining and enhancing the discipline.

The Jumping Victoria Committee is pleased to present this update, providing an overview of how we have utilised the JV Strategic Fund to enhance the sport of Jumping. Our primary focus has been on investing in our people, events, and support for the clubs that play an integral role in facilitating the sport for our members.

Looking ahead, we are excited to share with you the future activities and initiatives that we have planned.

HIGH PERFORMANCE

• Competition Funding Support

• VIC Team Funding Support

• HP Squad in Quarter 2

• Mindset Training Seminar - TBC

One of our key investment areas has been nurturing and developing our talented individuals. We have allocated resources toward training programs, workshops, and educational initiatives to empower our members with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in Jumping. By investing in our people, we are building a solid foundation for the sport's future success.

Additionally, we have directed funds towards organising events that provide our members with memorable experiences. These events not only showcase the skills and talents of our athletes, but also foster a sense of community and camaraderie among our members.

OFFICIALS TRAINING

Ongoing Training and Support

We understand the crucial role that officials play in Jumping competitions. Therefore, we will continue to invest in their development, ensuring they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required.

GRASSROOTS/PARTICIPATION

Development of State Leaderboard

To nurture talent and provide recognition to aspiring athletes, we will invest in the development of a State Leaderboard. This platform will enable our athletes to showcase their progress and achievements, fostering healthy competition and motivation.

Ongoing Youth Squad Support

The future of Jumping lies in the hands of our youth. We will continue to provide support and resources to our Youth Squad, empowering them to develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Finally, we greatly appreciate your continued support, as we navigate this exciting chapter for Jumping. Your dedication and enthusiasm are vital in propelling the sport forward. Thank you for your ongoing commitment and involvement.

DOWNLOAD OUR INFOGRAPHIC

Discipline News

SHOW HORSE

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE SUMMER

OTT, OWNER RIDER AND HOME PRODUCED DECEMBER SHOW

Planning is currently under way, with entries opening and schedule release expected in early October.

This year, we are happy to welcome the RDA to our event and hope that we will see their organisation and riders at many more to come.

December 2nd @ Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre

EV SUMMER SHOW

Breed society EOIs have opened and can be made via this online form.

The schedule is set to be released, with entries anticipated to open by the end of October.

Keep an eye out on the event website for further updates.

January 13th - 14th 2024 @ Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre

SHOW HORSE JUDGE’S SEMINAR AND RIDERS’ CLINICS

An online Show Horse Judges' Seminar is currently planned for October. The Show Horse Committee will be reviewing additional details and seeking feedback from our Show Horse officials to determine how best to structure the seminar and ensure that all requests are considered.

Discipline News

INTERSCHOOL

VICTORIAN TEAM SELECTED FOR THE 2023 MARCUS OLDHAM AUSTRALIAN INTERSCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIPS

The upcoming Marcus Oldham Australian Interschool Championships, set to take place from September 29 to October 3, will showcase the talents of the 2023 Equestrian Victoria Interschool Team.

Comprising 118 skilled riders accompanied by 142 amazing horses, this team is ready to compete (and have fun)!

The generous sponsorship from Marcus Oldham, who once more are committed to the Championships, is truly invaluable and greatly acknowledged.

VICTORIAN TEAM CAPTAINS

Nicholas Grant & Caitlin Griffiths

COMBINED TRAINING

Mia Shortt

DRESSAGE

Darcy Macaulay

EVENTING

Kylah Brewer

JUMPING

India Lamperd

SHOW HORSE

Stella Horspole

CALLING ALL INTERSCHOOL EVENTERS

We're thrilled to announce the commencement of registrations for the 2023/2024 Interschool Eventing Leaderboard, starting right after the Australian Interschool Championships. Please note that the Shirley Heights event, scheduled for September 30th and October 1st, will not be included in the Leaderboard.

Riders may register for up to two levels. It's important to remember that points earned in one level cannot be carried to another. To ensure fair competition and accurate standings, we request all participants use consistent spelling when entering rider and horse names. This will greatly aid our database search after each round.

To maintain the integrity of the Leaderboard and allow riders to strategically plan their season, results will not be retroactively added. Your progressive standings throughout the competition will guide your approach.

Ready to secure your spot on the leaderboard?

EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA INTERSCHOOL COMMITTEE (EAIC)

Equestrian Australia (EA) has taken a significant step forward by reconvening the National Interschool Committee (EAIC). This strategic move aims to comprehensively address the many rule updates and revisions required since 2018. Our ISV Chair, Julia Williams, has been selected as one of the five representative members who will steer this newly formed committee.

Julia Williams will step down from her position as ISV Chair in light of her role in this new committee.

We sincerely appreciate Julia's leadership as the Interschool Victoria Chair and wish her well in this new position.

National News

EA SNIPPETS

DIGITAL ACCESS TO YOUR EA HORSE DOCUMENTATION

Equestrian Australia has now made it easier for you to access your important documents! Members will now receive your horse’s registration certificates and competition licences digitally via email, the MyEA Membership Portal and MyEA App. This process will soon be available for transfers and leases.

READ MORE ON EA WEBSITE

2023 NATIONAL DRESSAGE PERFORMANCE GOLD MEDALS

Since 2010, the 2023 National Dressage Performance Gold Medals have been awarded to horse or pony/rider combinations who have achieved outstanding results throughout the year. This year’s application qualifying period is from 7th September 2022 to 8th September 2023. Nominations are open and will close Wednesday, 20 September 2023. Full details and conditions can be found on the Equestrian Australia website.

READ MORE ON EA WEBSITE

AUSTRALIAN JUMPING TEAM QUALIFIES FOR PARIS OLYMPICS

Riders Edwina Tops-Alexander, Hilary Scott, Chris Burton and Lauren Balcomb rose to the occasion at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Qualification Event for Group G at the Longines International Arena in Valkenswaard. The team finished first to secure a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

READ MORE ON EA WEBSITE

AUSTRALIA WINS VIRTUS GAMES 6TH EDITION

A wonderful example of how the Australian equestrian community came together to make our riders dreams comes true. For Andrew Driffield, Sarah Sherwood and Sui Watts, their dreams to represent their country at an international level became reality at the Virtus Global Games in June this year. A total of over $80,000 was raised to help these three athletes and support crew get to Vichy, France. The experience was made sweeter coming home with Team and Individual Gold medals, on borrowed horses no less! Full details available on the Equestrian Australia website.

READ MORE ON EA WEBSITE

DOWNLOAD THIS PDF

International News

FEI SNIPPETS

FEI APPOINTS TODD HINDE AS NEW DIRECTOR OF JUMPING

Australia’s Todd Hinde, a decorated athlete, chef d’equipe of the Australian team and Equestrian Australia’s High Performance Jumping Manager, has recently been appointed as the new FEI Director of Jumping and will begin his role in September.