Contents

Membership Matters

FROM THE CEO

Our Event Scene is Pumping!

In recent months, the events scene has been buzzing with activity, thanks to the tireless efforts of staff, volunteers, sponsors, and committees. We have seen some of the biggest events since the pandemic, with enthusiasts from all over the state and interstate participating.

In March, we hosted the PSI DJWTS at WPNEC. Our naming rights partner, PSI, plays a significant role in the success of Australia's premier young horse event. We are grateful for their long-time partnership that includes the provision of our guest riders each year. Riders and spectators were delighted with Evelyn Eger for Dressage and Andreas for the jumping.

We had the largest number of spectators this year, and they certainly enjoyed the hospitality facilities and shopping at the Trade Village. You can read a wrap-up of the event later in this newsletter.

We had no sooner put away our organisers' caps when the PETstock Equestrian Victoria Interschool State Championships began: 438 entries, 600 Horses and a host of volunteers filled WPNEC once more. This is an important event for all young equestrians, and we are grateful and thank PETstock as our Naming Rights Partner.

The Melbourne International Three-Day Event (MI3DE),

8-12 June welcomes a new Naming Rights Partner in

GM Speciality Vehicles. This event is highly anticipated by equestrian enthusiasts everywhere. With the the continued support and hard work of the teams involved, it promises to be another spectacular showcase of the sport.

In other news, the organisation has welcomed new board members, whose wealth of experience and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly contribute to our continued success. However, the organisation also bids farewell to some valuable volunteers who have played an instrumental role in its journey.

We bid farewell to a true legend and Hall of Fame member, Art Uytendaal, whose contributions to the sport of jumping have left an indelible mark. However, his influence extends far beyond just jumping, having inspired and mentored generations of equestrians across all disciplines. Art's legacy will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched, and his impact on the equestrian world will continue to be felt for years to come. Rest in peace, Art.

Looking forward, we are immensely proud of what we have all achieved together thus far this year. With continued dedication and your support, we hope to make our upcoming events even more extraordinary.

Amy Slayter

Membership Matters

ADMIN SUPPORT

Exciting opportunity for a team player with strong planning and communication skills to support member-focused sport development initiatives at Equestrian Victoria. Key responsibilities include administrative support and ensuring efficient operations. This 2-month position supports the 2023/2024 membership changeover.

Contact:

ceo@equestrianvictoria.com.au

GO TO OUR WEBSITE to READ MORE

Membership Matters

NEW BOARD AND DISCIPLINE REPRESENTATIVES

Membership Matters

VALE ART UYTENDAAL

It is with heavy hearts that we received the news of the passing of Art Uytendaal, an Equestrian Victoria Hall of Fame inductee and a true legend in the world of equestrian sport, at the age of 92.

Art's influence extended beyond his own riding accomplishments. He was a brilliant, determined equestrian with a fierce competitive streak, and his legacy lives on through the many riders he influenced and inspired throughout his career. This exceptional athlete dedicated his life to training and nurturing numerous gifted and champion horses ( inc. Donald, Trafalgar Square, Bencubbin and Tongala). Among them was Chatter, whom he rode over 2m 17cm in the Puissance, a record he held for many years.

His legacy as a legend of his sport is secure, and though he will be sadly missed, we take comfort in the knowledge that his passion for show jumping and his commitment to excellence will continue to inspire generations of riders to come.

Rest in peace, Art Uytendaal, and thank you for your incredible contributions to the sport of show jumping in Australia.

Watch our tribute to Art on our YouTube Channel.

Member Spotlight

VICSPORT AWARDS

"We are thrilled to share that three of our outstanding members have made the finalists list in the 2023 Victorian Sport Awards. We're incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and the recognition they've received.

Congratulations to Mary, Will, and Kevin on this well-deserved honour. We wish them the best of luck in the awards!

Coaching

EXTRAVAGANZA

We are delighted to report that the first-ever EVCC (Equestrian Victoria Coaching Committee) Extravaganza was an incredible success! Over two days, coaches from Introductory Level to Level 2 had the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities and lessons.

Attendees could teach dressage, poles, jumping, and cross-country lessons while being assessed by our highly experienced Coach Educators. Not only did this provide valuable feedback and insight, but it also allowed coaches to refine their skills and develop their teaching abilities.

In addition to the coaching program, we also ran a Coach Educator and SSTA course over the two days. This course had both an in-person and online aspect, and we were thrilled to have participants tuning in from other states and even other countries, including Singapore and Malaysia. This speaks volumes to the interest in equestrian coaching and the popularity of the format delivered by the EVCC.

We want to extend a sincere thank you to the demonstration riders who made this program possible. Your participation was invaluable and greatly appreciated by everyone in attendance. We hope you found the experience equally valuable.

We also want to give a special thanks to the incredible team of Coach Educators:. Chris Mann, Sue Leslie, Sue Chandler, Tim Calkin, Jan Smith, Deb Court, Catherine Shelley, Will Enzinger, and Leanne Williams. Your expertise, passion, and commitment to excellence have undoubtedly had a lasting impact on the coaches who participated in the program.

Overall, the EVCC Extravaganza was a fantastic success, and we look forward to hosting similar events. We hope all our members will continue to engage with us and take advantage of the many educational opportunities available through the EVCC.

Event Spotlight

PSI DJWTS

continued

PSI DJWTS

In the jumping arena, the Jumping Champion of Champions for DJWTS 2023 was the seven-year-old grey Bonita (Balou de Rouet - Alondra), ridden by Phillip Lever, owned by Jessica Patema and bred by the Barton Family.

The crowd were ready for a fantastic World Cup competition. They held their breath as they watched each competitor tackle the HUGE course expertly designed by David Sheppard, Gavin Chester, and Edward McNair, assisted by Ian Chalmers and Kevin Hare. Tom McDermott claimed victory in spectacular style with Cooley Gangster.

continued

PSI DJWTS

The young event horse classes are judged on conformation, dressage, and jumping, with Samuel Jeffree's Wimborne Caitlin (Contenda-Wimborne Prada-Poetry In Motion) taking out the Young Eventing Horse Championship.

The mares definitely put the boys to shame in this competition - the "girls" had it all sewn up with all 3 Champions being mares.

This year's winners of the Ridden Performance Pony classes were Laura Hercules' Treasured Zephyr (Forestdale Flyndersea-Treasured Miss Kournikova-Stanton Park Lemon Ruski) in the

4-5yo class and Tayla Andersons' Casino Nights (Newbury Apollo-Burrowa Alethia-Abergavenny Achillies) taking out the

6-7yo class. Natasha Moody won the Current Stars Class with Tungarra Toystory (L.J.S. Limited Edition-Tungarra Storytime), owned by Natasha and Clay Wareham.

Dressage Highlights

PSI DJWTS

Watch the Highlights

on our YouTube Playlist

Video 1: Grand Prix Winners

Pauline Carnovale &

Captain Cooks

(8 minutes)

plus

Video 2: Highlights from a selection of

Young Horse Classes

(41 minutes)

Thank you

PSI DJWTS

You are all ROCK STARS.

Our Sponsors

PSI DJWTS

First and foremost, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our Title Sponsor, Performance Sales International.

Their commitment to our event has been nothing short of exceptional over many years, and we are honoured to have them on board as a partner.

Performance Sales International is the largest private horse auction in the world. Ulrich Kasselmann & Paul Schockemöhle started the event in 1980 with the aim of breeding and selling only the best young dressage and jumping horses to a global clientele.

Visit their website or view their online magazine.

Our Sponsors and Event Partners

Event Spotlight

PETstock EV

ISV State Championships

The recent PETstock Equestrian Victoria Interschool State Championships, were held over five days (15-19 April), and have been hailed a huge success.

With 164 schools participating, the event saw 438 riders and over 617 horses participating in the various discipline competitions of Dressage, Jumping, Combined Training, Showing, and Sporting Horse. Riders from Prep to Year 12 showcased their skills in these categories, making it an event for all ages.

The event's fantastic organising committee and volunteers brought everything together. With the support of the EV office superstar Jamie Harding and the EV team, the event was a resounding success, and everyone left with new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

The weather was undoubtedly unpredictable, ranging from bright autumn sunshine to downpours. However, this did not dampen the spirits of the participants, who all had a great time bonding over the friendly competition. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for riders, horses, and schools from across the state to come together and share their passion for the sport. As for the entertainment, the Welcome BBQ and movie night provided a break from the pressure and nerves of the competition arena.

Major Awards

PETstock EV

ISV State Championships

Nan McArthur Award

The Nan McArthur Trophy for Primary was a 3-way tie with Abbey Restall, Amelia Maree, and Charli Leach taking the honours. The winner for Secondary was Amelia Tsilfidis.

The ISV Championships provide an excellent opportunity for schools to showcase the importance of teamwork and hard work. The winning schools were Toorak College coming in first, followed by Tintern Grammar in second and Gippsland Grammar in third place.

EQUILUME SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS

Big CONGRATULATIONS to the following riders for winning the Equilume Sportsmanship Award at the 2023 PETstock Equestrian Victoria Interschool State Championships!

• Rylea Curmi
  
• Lucah Alexander
  
• Mirri Lang
  
• Caitlin Griffiths
  
• Bianca Griffiths
  

Our Steward Panel recognised their respect, integrity, and kindness towards other competitors, making them a true ambassador of sportsmanship. This award was based on select criteria, including fair play, teamwork, and a positive attitude. We are proud to have such amazing riders at this event.

Our Sponsors

Equestrian Victoria is again hugely grateful to PETstock, our Naming Rights Partner. This event promotes equestrian sport and encourages a sense of community and camaraderie that is invaluable for personal growth. We cannot thank PETstock enough for its patronage and belief in our vision. To all our Championship and Award Partners, we extend our heartfelt thanks:

• Hygain for Dressage,
• Marcus Oldham College for Jumping,
• Caribu for Show Horse,
• QA Electrical for Combined Training,
• Sporting Horse Australia for Sporting Horse,
• Stable Ground for the Team Championship, and
• Equilume for the Sportsmanship Award.

We are grateful to each of you for your invaluable contributions.

We are also delighted to acknowledge our Event Partners -

• AE Equestrian and Farming Supplies,
• Kalimera Kafe, and
• Southern Cross Floats

for making our event amazing. We are incredibly grateful to all involved in this massive event, and we look forward to creating more memorable experiences for riders, horses, and schools in the coming years.

Event Highlight

SPECIAL OLYMPICS/ RDA AT STATE Championships

We recently had the honour and privilege of hosting a Special Olympics and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) class at the PETstock Equestrian Victoria Interschool State Championships. This was the first time such an event was held.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Sally Francis and Lyndsay Davis, who worked closely with us to deliver this event. Their support and guidance were instrumental in making this class a resounding success, and we could not have done it without them.

As an organisation, EV is committed to promoting equestrian sports and supporting riders of all abilities.

We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to collaborate with RDA and SO, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in the future. We believe that events like this can help to break down barriers and promote inclusivity within the equestrian community, as well as provide opportunities for individuals to develop

Discipline News

DRESSAGE

Rule Updates

Equestrian Australia has advised that there have been updates to the Dressage Rules for the 2 items below. Changes have been made prior to next rulebook update, due to the possible impact on horses/riders entering events before 1 July.

GPCDN

Rule amendment due to inconsistency of number of qualification requirements for GPCDN and GPCDI qualifications in Australia.

Age of Horse/Ponies

Error in 1 January 2023 rule changes. Reference to August 1 should be for Young Horse only. All other ages need to align with FEI rules.

Competition Warm-Up Safety & Etiquette

Competitions and warm-up arenas can be a source of stress for many competitors. As such, it's crucial for riders to be mindful of their surroundings and adhere to event rules to ensure the smooth and safe running of the event. Regrettably, recent incidents have highlighted the need to remind all participants of their responsibilities while at the competition. Please note that only horses registered for the event are permitted in the warm-up area, whether ridden or led. Additionally, there have been instances of some riders displaying a lack of respect towards event officials, particularly marshals and stewards.

This behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We would like to remind all riders that failing to comply with the directions of an event official may result in the issuance of a Yellow Warning Card.

In addition there are other expectations for riders. This includes adhering to the general arena etiquette. The etiquette for warm-up arenas may be found in the EA DRESSAGE Rules (F 10.2). These expectations include:

a) Safety is paramount and a collision should be avoided at all times

b) Before entering the warm-up area make sure the gateway and immediate track are clear

c) Riders should pass left shoulder to left shoulder when on the outside track

d) When not on the outside track, e.g. on a diagonal line, riders should give way to horses on their left

e) The more progressive gait has priority on the track (e.g. horses trotting should give way to horses cantering)

f) A halt should not be on the track

g) Walking should not be on the track and does not have right of way

h) Trot has priority over walk

i) Canter has priority over trot

j) Lateral work has priority over all paces

k) When circling, anticipate your return to the track so as to not stop the flow of other riders

l) Mounting, dismounting and gear adjustment should be done off the track

m) Consideration should be given to behaviour of other horses in the arena that may upset your horse

n) It may be necessary to leave the area if your horse is upsetting others

o) If a horse is upsetting the majority, an official should be sought with a view to requesting that horse’s removal for safety’s sake

p) Be aware of stallions wearing green stallion discs

Ensuring the safety of both the horse and rider is of utmost importance. Consequently, any rider who poses a safety risk to other competitors may face elimination from the event.

If you have any queries or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact our Riders Representative, Karen Blythe, or the Chair of the Dressage Victoria Committee, Lizzy Schirmer.

AOR AND YOUNG RIDER SUBCOMMITEES

Want to involve yourself more in the Dressage World?

Expressions of Interest are available for the AOR Subcommittee and Young Rider Subcommittee positions.

The Amateur Owner Rider and Young Rider subcommittees are an integral part of the equestrian community, providing valuable resources and support for riders of all levels. As a committee member, you'll have the chance to make a difference in the lives of young and amateur riders, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their goals.

Being on either of these subcommittees is a great way to make a positive impact on our sport while also gaining valuable experience and making new friends.

Get involved today and make a difference!

Please see the JotForm links below for each.

• AOR Subcommittee
  
• Young Rider Subcommittee
  

Discipline News

Eventing

New Committee

We want to warmly congratulate David Permezel, the newly appointed Chairman of the Victorian Eventing Committee. We are excited about the future of Eventing in Victoria. Read David's first report as Chair on the EV website, and meet the new Eventing Victoria Committee.

We must also bid farewell to some incredible individuals:

Janet Houghton needs no introduction and has played a crucial role in the success of the Eventing community in Victoria. Although we are sad to say 'goodbye' to Janet as the Eventing Victoria Chair, we are thrilled she will now be Chair of the National Eventing Committee. We are excited to see how Janet's expertise and passion will continue to shape the future of Eventing in Australia.

Congratulations Janet!

Seeing the smiles, hearing the conversations, the camaraderie, dinners enjoyed, friends made, watching the fruits of their labour in the competitions that ‘they’ all contribute to in every small and large way is so so... Nice.

I once was a terrible rider, and bloody loved it. I was part of a team with my horse. It made me feel good to work with him to gain results - well, for me getting past ‘X’ was an achievement. Being a volunteer actually gives me the same amount of pleasure, and working with others and seeing them enjoy their unique roles is awesome.

This year I want you all to take up a challenge for me. Sign up for a role at an event. May be something you haven’t done before. Interested in rules? Shadow a TD. Good at shouting? Be a Marshall. Got a busted arm at Wandin? Help commentating (thanks Hannah Klep!) handy with a hammer? Help on a course crew. There are so many roles and every Organising Committee (and Eventing Victoria) need more volunteers and officials to put on these amazing events for our riders. I dare and challenge you ALL to try something more.

Ok, enough from me. See some of you out at Ballarat.

Take care champions!

Dave.

Discipline News

JUMPING

The Jumping Victoria Youth Development Squad program continues to expand its popularity. In 2023, over 110 riders applied for the 'Hygain Sponsored Program'. A High-Performance squad was selected with 17 riders across Childrens, Juniors and Young Riders.

For the Development Squad, there were 70 riders selected that had proven results from 80cm to 1.15cm. Over 20 riders have joined the Squadette Program, where riders can have an early introduction to the sport. Two squad training sessions have already been held this year. Our program prides itself on providing access to high-quality EA Jumping Coaches, including Sue Coman, Russell Johnstone, Paul Brent, Murray Lampard and Adam Prime. Each rider is guaranteed a unique experience, as our coaches are rotated throughout each session.

At our training sessions, we don't just focus on on-horse activities. We also provide off-horse activities to ensure our riders receive a well-rounded education. During the first Squad of the year, riders had the opportunity to participate in a Saddle Fitting presentation from ASFA Accredited Saddle Fitter Jervaise Prime from Saddle Up. In April, the off-horse activity focused on presentation etiquette and event interview skills.

Mid-year squad applications are open shortly for the three squad sessions in the year's second half. Applications for the development squad are invited from Equestrian Victoria members 25 years old and younger who have proven results in jumping from 80cm. Alternatively, the Squadette program is open to members up to 12 years old.

Our commitment to developing well-rounded riders has made the Jumping Victoria Youth Development Squad program a sought-after opportunity for aspiring equestrians. We are proud to be shaping the future of the sport and look forward to seeing our riders achieve great things.

APPLY FOR SQUAD NOW

Discipline News

Show Horse is quiet at this time of year. But the off-season doesn't mean the end of the road for the show horse committee. In fact, it's the perfect time to start planning for the future.

Your Committee is already hard at work organising a series of Winter Clinics, Judges Seminars, and Measuring Days to help riders improve their skills, learn from industry experts, and get their horses measured in preparation for future competitions.

Winter Clinics provide an opportunity for riders to work on their technique, learn new skills, and receive expert feedback from coaches and trainers. Judges' Seminars offer a chance to gain insight into the judging process and understand what judges look for in a winning performance. And Measuring Days are essential for ensuring that horses meet the height requirements for their respective classes.

We want to congratulate all who qualified to represent Victoria at the EA Australasian Show Horse and Rider Championships at this year's Barastoc.

It takes a lot of dedication, hard work, and passion to excel in the highly competitive world of show horses, and we applaud all those who have earned this opportunity to showcase their talent on a national level.

So while the show horse season may be a little sleepy, there is still plenty to look forward to. So stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and keep your eyes on the prize - the next show horse season will be here before you know it!

Discipline News

INTERSCHOOL

PROVISIONAL

VICTORIAN INTERSCHOOL TEAM

The provisional team has been selected based on the results of the State Championships. The top 4 placegetters from Show Horse and Combined Training disciplines have gained their places, while the top 2 placings from Dressage and Jumping have also earned their spots. The remaining two team members will be chosen from the VEIS series.

Dressage levels:

Primary Preliminary, Primary Novice, Intermediate Preliminary, Intermediate Novice, Senior Preliminary, Senior Novice, Elementary, Medium, Advanced, PSG and Inter 1.

Jumping levels:

Primary 80cm and 90cm, Intermediate and Senior 90cm, Intermediate and Senior 100cm, Secondary 110cm, Secondary 120cm.

VIEW THE PROVISIONAL TEAM

Please note VEIS are named in these height groups-

• Primary 80cm is taken from VEIS Improvers level
  
• Primary 90cm is taken from VEIS Progressive level
  
• Intermediate 90 and Senior 90 are also taken from VEIS Progressive level
  
• Intermediate 100 and Senior 100 are taken from VEIS Intermediate level
  
• Secondary 110 is taken form Advanced
  
• Secondary 120 is taken from Stars
  

National News

EA SNIPPETS

EA STATEMENT

Changes to EACC Structure

Coaches play a vital role in the sport of Equestrian, providing guidance, expertise and support to athletes ...

Read more on EA WEBSITE

Countdown: 500 days to Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

The road to the Para Dressage arena of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games is now just 500 days long.

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which will run from 28 August to 8 September, will see the Para Dressage competition take place at the iconic Château de Versailles from 3 to 7 September, with 78 athlete and horse combinations from around the world eligible to compete for 33 medals awarded across the Team, Individual and Freestyle Events.

Read the full article on EA WEBSITE

NOMINATE A CHANGE MAKER

Supporting The Change Makers during National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering and will be held on 15 – 21 May 2023.

The theme for National Volunteer Week 2023 is The Change Makers. For 2023, Equestrian Australia wishes to recognise and celebrate our wonderful volunteer community and invite you to nominate an exceptional 'Change Maker' in our sport.

READ MORE ON EA WEBSITE

EA's New National Rules for Para-Dressage

Equestrian Australia is pleased to announce the release of its first dedicated national rule book for Para Dressage.

View on EA WEBSITE

International News

FEI SNIPPETS

FEI Accessibility Handbook

The first edition of the FEI Accessibility Handbook for Event Organisers is aimed at providing a systematic approach to making FEI Equestrian Events more accessible for para athletes and their support staff, spectators, media, volunteers and other stakeholders with disabilities. This includes ensuring all areas of the venue and facilities are fully accessible, providing dedicated and convenient car parking, providing disabled toilets at appropriate locations, ensuring information is readily available regarding accessible routes, services and facilities, and making sure volunteers are well briefed to provide information and answer questions.

MORE INFORMATION ON FEI WEBSITE

Watch FEI Sports Forum on Replay

The 11th edition of the FEI Sports Forum, took place on 24 and 25 April 2023. The Forum opened with the all-important second report of the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission, which was created last June to address societal concerns related to the use of horses in sport and to provide an independent evidence based framework to guide FEI regulations, policies and practices in relation to equine welfare and wellbeing.

Day 2 began with an extensive session on various issues in Jumping events.

WATCH THE REPLAYS ON YOUTUBE