Equestrian Hub June 2026

JUNE 2026

COMMU NIT Y. Tour D'Horse 2026

POINT OF V IEW. Caleb Degen

FE ATUR E . Understanding the

Hope, connection and the power

Accountability, online culture and

Five Domains. A conversation with

of moving forward together

why kindness still matters

Dr. Andrew McLean

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POINT OF VIEW

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U NDE RSTANDING TH E F IVE DOMAINS

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What's Inside 26

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T R A IN IN G

NOURISH

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C HAT W ITH A C HA MPION

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Hello, A

s riders and owners, we spend countless hours refining the way we

series, while Dr Jennifer Stewart explains how horses communicate, and why it gives

communicate with our horses - our aids, our

us the opportunity to understand them at a

timing, our balance, our seat - all in pursuit

deeper level.

of a stronger partnership. Yet perhaps the most important part of communication is not what we ask of our horses, but how well we listen in return.

Kirsty Pasto brings us the Badminton Horse Trials and a celebration of Ros Cantor's legendary victory just 15 weeks after giving birth, reminiscent of our own eventing star

Horse welfare continues to sit at the centre

Sophia Hill, who three months after the

of conversations across every discipline, and

birth of son Oliver, was back in the saddle

rightly so. The equestrian world is evolving,

competing for Australia. You can read her

d'Horse fundraiser, and the HLS Trick Riding team's recent adventure tugged hard at our heartstrings too.

Our commitment to community is also why we were thrilled to be acknowledged in the Community Impact category at the recent Equestrian Trade and Business Australia (ETBA) Awards - and talking of the ETBA, Hannah Jade Basetti, the organisation's Founder and Managing Director, is the focus of this month's Founders. Her story is

challenging us to think more deeply about the

story in this month's Life After Racing.

inspiring.

horse's physical and emotional wellbeing -

Helen Cruden reports on Richard Vogel's

Chat With a Champion features none other than Olympian Will Matthew, an elite rider who epitomises determination and dedication. Adult Owner Rider Annie Boyd muses on the adage 'forward fixes everything', and Caleb Degen shares his thoughts on the value of being kind.

and it's not just about nutrition, veterinary care and saddle fit, it's about listening when they are trying to tell us something.

outstanding victory at the Rolex Grand Prix at TSCHIO Aachen - and from the UK, Tania Huppatz delivers the pomp and

Sometimes the signs are obvious, sometimes

pageantry of the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

incredibly subtle: a reluctance to move

On the health front, Sara Osaulenko dives

forward, tension in a transition, or a change in behaviour on the ground. Listening requires patience, and an open heart and mind. It asks us to remember that success means little if it comes at the expense of trust.

deep into the benefits of Omega-3 rich flaxseed oil, and Racetrack Veterinary Services offers expert advice on rugging - a hot topic as winter bites in!

Keen to improve your cross country? Then

When we listen deeply, horses often become

don't miss Nicole Creed's article on wearable

our greatest teachers - and we receive the

technology - and Donal Hancock is back with

most meaningful gift of all: true partnership.

a masterclass on long reining, one of the most

With this in mind, we speak to Dr Andrew

valuable tools in horsemanship.

McLean on the evolving science of horse

At the Hub, we're all about community, so

welfare in the first of a fascinating two-part

we loved the ethos behind the recent Tour

Anne-Marie Lasserre offers up a rider fitness program that your horsemanship will thank you for, and Sam Cavallo's reflections on the importance of quiet time with our horses is balm for the soul.

And of course we have our Mini News, and Behind the Shot, showcasing a magical image from our very own Sam. What We Love focuses on warm and weatherproof pants, and just wait until you see this month's property - it's a stunner!

AMANDA MAC EDITOR, EQUESTRIAN HUB

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 9

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Kirsty Pasto Based in Europe, Kirsty is an equestrian media specialist with 15 years experience in journalism and photography. She writes and photographs for the FEI, international magazines, and equestrian federations, producing features and visual content from some of the sport’s leading events. In this issue, she takes us to one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events - the Badminton Horse Trials.

Dr Andrew McLean Andrew is the CEO of Equitation Science International. An Honorary Fellow of the International Society for Equitation Science, he's a member of the FEI's Equine Welfare Advisory Group and Ethical Training Methods Expert Consultative Group.

Don't miss the first of our two-part series for an in depth conversation with Andrew on the importance of understanding the Five Domains.

Tania Huppatz Tania combines her love of horses and travel in her successful company Snaffle Travel. She visits some of the world’s major horse shows and equestrian-related locations, and enjoys sharing her experiences with the Equestrian Hub community. The Royal Windsor Show combines international competition, royal tradition and an unforgettable setting.

Tania takes us there in her report in this issue.

Dr Jennifer Stewart B.V.Sc., B.Sc., Ph.D. With over 40 years’ experience as a veterinarian in mixed and equine practice, Jennifer’s special interest is equine nutrition. She was a Senior Veterinary Officer with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for 10 years, and a Biosecurity Veterinarian with the ACT Government for two years. This month, she looks at the way horses communicate.

Sara Osaulenko Sara is the founder of Canterwell, an equine nutrition brand focussed on helping horses thrive through affordable, quality nutrition. Designed to promote health, condition, and wellbeing, her focus is on making premium equine care more accessible for everyday horse owners and competitors. In this issue, she explains why Omega-3 rich flaxseed oil is such a valuable tool for condition, recovery and coat quality,

Anne-Marie Lasserre Anne-Marie is a Miss World and Miss Universe Figure Champion. She’s an AOR dressage rider, and a specialist coach in aesthetics, sports performance and nutrition.

Dedicated to empowering equestrians to achieve peak fitness and personal transformation, in this issue she explains why riders are now training as athletes, and offers up a structured strength training program.

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Sophia Hill Obsessed with horses from the age of nine, Sophia is an eventer, Racing Victoria Acknowledged Retrainer, and with husband Andrew, owns and operates Bluebell Equestrian Park.

Her world changed the day Humble Glory, an OTT Thoroughbred, arrived in their yard. Now at 5* with an eye on the next Olympics, their story in this month's Life After Racing is an inspirational 'must read'.

Nicole Creed After years of competing and coaching across Australia, the USA and France, Nicole realised that the equestrian world is full of passion but mired in outdated systems. Enter EquiCare.

Founded by Nicole, the app is designed to help riders stay organised.

In this month's Tech Talk, she looks at GPS devices and explains why they can make all the difference to your cross country round.

O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S

Annie Boyd Annie has been competing Quarter Horses all her life. She is passionate about breeding and starting her own young horses, developing them into well-rounded, successful amateur mounts. Alongside riding, she owns and operates her business Annlee Saddlery and Cowboy Hattery. In our Adult Owner Rider article, she shares her inspiring journey.

Hannah Jade Basetti From building a global equestrian app to creating Equestrian Trade and Business Australia (ETBA), Hannah brings the equestrian industry together through connection and collaboration.

ETBA gives equestrian businesses the opportunity to network and build on industry insights and trends.

Hannah is featured in this month's Founders.

Caleb Degen Caleb has built a career around his love of horses. He's competed in eventing and polo in the UK, and is currently Equine Coordinator with the Australian Outback Spectacular. At home on Queensland’s Gold Coast, he offers clinics in liberty and groundwork that exemplify his innovative approach to training as well as his commitment to animal welfare. In this issue he shares his opinion on the value of being kind.

Helen Cruden With a rich family heritage in equestrian sports, Helen is a prominent figure in the international equestrian scene.

Renowned as both a show jumper and photographer, her images are highly sought after. She travels extensively, covering major show jumping and polo events, capturing the bond between horses and their riders. This month, she reports on the 2026 Rolex Grand Prix at TSCHIO Aachen.

Donal Hancock Donal, founder of Hancock Horsemanship, believes building a relationship with your horse is foundational, not optional. Recipient of the Jack Brainard Horsemanship Award, he is a trainer, clinician and entertainer, and has competed in colt start and liberty competitions both here and overseas. In Part 2 of his Foundation to Finished series, he looks at the fundamentals of long reining.

Sam Cavallo Sam, the publisher of Equestrian Hub and Equestrienne Magazine, has a keen interest in international events and equestrian culture and lifestyle. With a focus on community and the people behind the sport, she is committed to supporting education and positive change within the equestrian community.

In this month's Nourish, she reflects on the importance of quiet time with our horses.

Will Matthew Starting out on leased riding school horses, Will went through Pony Club in WA, participating in everything from flat work to show jumping to mounted games. As a 17-year-old he headed to Europe for an equestrian gap year. A decade and a half later, he is based in Germany and competing as an elite level dressage rider. Don't miss his story in this month's Chat With a Champion.

Caitrin Kelly Caitrin has worked with bloodstock auctioneers Inglis, as a trackrider for the First Lady of Racing Gai Waterhouse, and more recently, with trainer Cindy Alderson while undertaking a Cert IV in Racehorse Training. Co-founder of Racetrack Veterinary Services, she is the President of the Victorian Wakeful Club, the premier Club for women involved in racing in Victoria.

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MINI NEWS

FIRST CAMPDRAFT

SCOOTBOOT

DERTELL, OSAKA

EXPANDS SUPPORT

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FOR PCA

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Australian dressage rider Jessica

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Scootboot has expanded its

Dertell and seven-year-old stallion

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partnership with Pony Club

Osaka P have been selected to

campdrafting into a board game

Australia, increasing its focus on

represent Australia at the 2026 FEI

inspired by the people, places

rider education and grassroots

WBFSH Dressage World Breeding

and challenges of rural Australia.

support. As part of the expanded

Championships for Young Horses

CampDraft: Queensland Edition

collaboration, Scootboot has

in Verden, Germany. The selection

sees players travel the campdraft

delivered a national hoof care

follows a standout season for the

circuit, buying horses, competing

webinar for Pony Club members

combination, including victory

for prize money and navigating the

and is working with state bodies to

in the seven-year-old division

unexpected hazards of life on the

provide rider recognition programs

at the Australian Young Horse

road. Developed with illustrator

and welfare-focused initiatives.

Championships. Held annually

Leith Walton, the game celebrates

The partnership aims to support

in Verden, the prestigious event

Australia's iconic campdraft culture

young riders while promoting

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and is currently undergoing testing

horse-first education, soundness

promising young dressage horses

ahead of release.

and practical horse management

and future international stars.

skills. scootboots.com

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THEMED BOARDGAME IN WORKS

June 2026

KALGOLD MAG

UK HOLDS FIRST

HUB NAMED

RELEASES WINTER BRIDLELESS

RUNNER-UP AT

EDITION

COMPETITION

ETBA AWARDS

The latest edition of Kalgold

Riders and horses took centre

Equestrian Hub was named

Magazine is now available, with

stage at the 2026 British Bridleless

Runner-Up in the Duncan Equine

Issue 7 showcasing stories from across

Competition in Surrey, England,

Community Impact Award at the

Australia's campdrafting, stock horse

demonstrating impressive levels of

inaugural ETBA Industry Awards,

and rural communities. The Winter

communication and partnership

held as part of the 2026 Equine

2026 edition features rider profiles,

without the use of a bridle.

Business Summit at Flemington

industry insights, event coverage

Competitors performed a variety

Racecourse. The award recognises

and grassroots stories celebrating the

of movements and displays using

businesses and organisations that

people behind the sport. Produced

minimal equipment, highlighting

foster connection, collaboration

by the team at Kalgold Gear, the

the role of training , trust and

and support within the equestrian

publication continues to grow as a

responsiveness. Streamed to a global

community. The Victorian Wakeful

platform dedicated to Australia's

audience, the event continues to

Club took out the top honour, while

western performance horse industry

generate interest among riders

Racetrack Vets was also recognised

and the broader rural lifestyle that

exploring alternative training

as a finalist. equinebusiness.com.au

surrounds it. kalgoldgear.com

approaches while celebrating the connection between horse and rider. britishbridlelesscompetition.co.uk E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 15

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B E H I N D T H E S H OT CHASING THE LIGHT I SAM CAVALLO

In the Paper Daisies

S

ome shots are carefully

longer and warmer, and this particular

sense of balance to the image. The

planned. Others happen

evening felt especially luxurious.

sea of flowers in the foreground

almost by magic. This image

was captured during a content shoot for Gala Equine in the Scenic Rim, Queensland.

The model in this image is my daughter, Saffron, alongside her horse, Stella. While the original purpose of the day was commercial content, this

created natural depth, while the soft mountains in the background added a sense of place without competing for attention.

We had been photographing campaign

frame became something far more

Technically, the image was captured on

content throughout the afternoon,

personal. There is something special

a Nikon Z9 at 70mm, f/3.5, 1/640 sec

surrounded by one of the most

about photographing a genuine

and ISO 500. Choosing f/3.5 allowed

beautiful backdrops imaginable - a

partnership rather than trying to create

me to soften the foreground flowers

paddock filled with flowering paper daisies.

Interestingly, these daisies begin as vibrant pink blooms before gradually fading through soft blush tones to white as they reach the end of their flowering cycle. By the time we arrived, the paddock had transformed into a sea of delicate pale petals, creating an

while retaining enough depth of field

"By the time we arrived, the paddock had transformed into a sea of delicate pale petals, creating an almost dreamlike setting."

almost dreamlike setting.

As photographers, we're always

to keep both Saffron and Stella as the focal point. The slightly slower shutter speed was possible because both subjects were relatively still, helping compensate for the lower light as the sun began to set. While I typically shoot wide open at f/2.8, on this occasion I wanted to retain a little more detail in the surrounding landscape rather than completely blur

one. I particularly love that Saffron isn't

the background.

looking at the camera; instead, she's

Sometimes the best images aren't the

simply sharing a quiet moment with

ones on the shot list. They're the ones

her horse.

that happen when you slow down,

mountains, creating that soft glow that

I’m quite an instinctual photographer

make the most of your surroundings

no studio light can compete with. We

and usually adjust my settings as I

and recognise an opportunity when it

had a few minutes to spare, so we

go depending on what I see through

presents itself - especially in a location

decided to do a quick outfit change

the viewfinder. Compositionally, I was

as unique as this.

and make the most of the opportunity.

drawn to the clean lines of the white

The shoot took place in October,

swing and pergola structure, which

when the afternoons were becoming

helped frame Stella while adding a

chasing light. Sometimes it works with you, sometimes against you, but it's always part of the process. The sun was beginning to drop behind the

Sam Cavallo is the creative behind Flash Pony Equestrian Sport & Event Photography.

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POINT OF VIEW

Be Kind Critique has always been part of horsemanship, but social media has changed the way it’s delivered. CALEB DEGEN reflects on the difference between constructive conversation and online pile-ons, and why the industry needs more humanity, not more outrage.

I

n an industry built on connection -

For Caleb, however, the greatest

“I was seeing people from every

between horse and rider, trainer and

cost isn't the criticism itself - it's what

discipline getting absolutely torn apart

student, community and sport - social

happens when riders stop sharing

online,” he says. “Dressage riders, show

media should be a place where that

altogether. “The people with the most

jumpers, liberty and horsemanship

connection thrives.

to say are often the people putting

trainers - it didn’t matter what they did.

themselves out there the least,” he

The comments weren’t constructive

says. “The riders and trainers who are

criticism anymore. Some of them were

genuinely learning, growing and working

just horrible.”

Yet for many riders, the toughest part of putting themselves out there isn't riding into the ring - it's opening the comments section afterwards.

Horse trainer and Outback Spectacular headliner Caleb Degen knows that

to be the best they can be for their horses every day usually understand how complicated the journey can be.”

The issue, he believes, goes far beyond simple differences of opinion. “There’s a big difference between genuine welfare

Experience has a way of creating

concerns and simply disagreeing with

perspective. Riders who have started

someone’s training style or perspective,”

young horses, worked through setbacks,

Caleb explains. “There are many

made mistakes and spent years refining

different ways to train horses ethically

their craft understand just how complex

and responsibly. Just because someone

horsemanship - and horses themselves

does something differently to you

His videos stop the scroll for thousands

- can be. The further down the road you

doesn’t automatically make it wrong.”

daily - and while many people connect

travel, the further you realise there is still

with and appreciate the content, the

to go.

negativity that often accompanies social

When fear of judgement becomes the

process rather than just the polished

loudest voice in the room, opportunities

outcome.

reality all too well. Through his online platforms, Caleb shares informative videos of his training sessions, liberty work and the relatable behind-thescenes realities of life with horses.

media is impossible to ignore. “Every single day I cop something,” Caleb says candidly.

to learn, connect and celebrate progress begin to disappear. Riders become

Part of what has drawn people to Caleb's content is his willingness to show the

In many ways, Caleb's online following has been built on authenticity. He

For a long time, that criticism deeply

hesitant to post, ask questions or share

affected him. “I used to really overthink

their experiences, worried that someone

everything I posted,” he explains. “I’d

will find fault in even their proudest

worry about what people would say,

moments.

whether someone would pick apart a

The conversation around online

way. It's an approach that resonates

piece of tack, a training method, or even

behaviour became especially front-

because it reflects a truth most horse

the smallest moment in a video.”

of-mind for Caleb after he posted a

people already understand: progress

It’s a pressure many riders understand.

video encouraging more kindness and

with horses isn’t linear, and no matter

perspective within the horse world - a

how experienced you become, there is

message that resonated strongly with

always more to learn and other ways to

his audience and the wider community.

improve.

environment where every ride, every

What sparked the video wasn’t one

training session and every decision can

specific incident, but rather a consistent

be dissected by strangers.

pattern he noticed across his platforms.

LEFT: Caleb says there's a difference between genuine welfare concerns and simply disagreeing with someone’s training style or perspective,

From elite professionals to teenagers posting their first competition video, social media has created an

openly shares the reality of working with horses - the breakthroughs, the setbacks, the lessons, the learning and the laughs - that happen along the

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 19

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POINT OF VIEW

ABOVE: Caleb believes conversations are far more productive when approached with genuine interest rather than judgment.

That mindset, he believes, is something

of,” Caleb says. “But people get scared

the online horse world could benefit

to post because they worry someone

from embracing more often.

will find something negative to say. As

Horses are individuals. Riders are constantly evolving. Experience shapes

soon as anything gets posted, everyone jumps in with an opinion.”

other down,” he says.

For Caleb, it ultimately comes back to a simple principle. If you wouldn't say it to someone's face at a competition, clinic or club day, why should it be acceptable

perspective. Yet social media often

That’s why Caleb now makes a

to type it from behind a screen? The

rewards the illusion of perfection over

conscious effort to engage differently

internet can sometimes create a sense

humble curiosity, reducing complex

online. “If someone shares something,

of distance from the people on the

conversations into black-and-white

it’s usually because it’s something

receiving end of our words, but that

debates where somebody must be right

they’re proud of,” he says. “Taking five

distance isn't real.

and somebody must be wrong.

seconds to leave a positive comment

Perhaps the old saying still applies: if

can genuinely make someone’s day.

you don't have anything constructive

Once you realise that, you become a lot

or kind to contribute, sometimes saying

more aware of the impact your words

nothing at all is the better option. Or as

can have.” It’s a small shift, but one

Caleb says, “Just keep scrolling!”

Constructive conversations around welfare, training and horse care remain essential. But Caleb believes those conversations are far more productive when approached with genuine interest rather than judgment.

And while social media has given equestrians incredible opportunities to learn and connect with others, it has also created an environment where riders can feel hesitant to share anything at all.

he believes could make a significant difference within the online equestrian community.

Importantly, Caleb isn’t suggesting riders should avoid accountability or stop asking questions. Rather, he believes

In many ways, the horse world already

the industry needs more balance,

faces enough external pressure without

perspective and humanity in the way

turning on itself internally. Public

those conversations happen.

conversations around animal welfare continue to intensify globally, and

For younger riders especially, that fear of

Caleb believes the industry needs to

criticism can be incredibly discouraging.

approach those discussions carefully

“It should be exciting to share your

and thoughtfully. “We need to be able to

progress or something you’re proud

have conversations without tearing each

Because behind every post is a real person. Someone learning. Someone trying.

You can follow Caleb on Instagram or visit Centaur Horsemanship.

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F E AT U R E

Understanding the Five Domains: A Conversation with Dr Andrew McLean In the first of a special two-part feature for Equestrian Hub, DR ANDREW MCLEAN explores the Five Domains Model and the evolving science of horse welfare, challenging riders to rethink not only how we train horses, but how we understand them.

H

orse welfare conversations

only beginning to evolve after the

by Professor David Mellor in Adelaide,

have changed dramatically over

Second World War through the

Andrew raised concerns that the model

the past decade. Once centred

development of the Five Freedoms. But

did not adequately address the realities

largely around feed, water, shelter and

over time, welfare science began

of training and interacting with animals

veterinary care, the discussion has

pushing beyond simply preventing

used in sport and leisure. “It really didn't

evolved into something far broader -

suffering and toward a deeper question:

speak to training animals in sport or

and far more confronting. Riders,

what actually creates a worthwhile life

leisure,” he explains. “Including dogs,

trainers and governing bodies are

for the animal itself?

horses, or just training animals like

increasingly being asked to consider not only whether horses are physically healthy, but whether they are genuinely living good lives.

For internationally respected equitation scientist Dr Andrew McLean, that shift sits at the heart of the Five Domains Model - a framework now shaping conversations across equestrian sport, racing and animal science worldwide.

When we sat down with Dr McLean, it quickly became clear that the Five Domains are about much more than

That concept would eventually evolve into the Five Domains Model - a

elephants or camels to do their work.”

What followed was a conversation that helped shape the model’s modern

"All animals are deeply driven to seek control within their environment, constantly learning which signals predict safety, reward or danger."

management practices alone. At their

evolution. Andrew described how horses could enter training calm, secure and emotionally stable, only to become anxious, conflicted and mentally compromised through unclear handling and poor communication. “You can really mess up an animal's life … where the horse never feels in control, or has that sense of predictability, controllability,” he says.

That idea of predictability and controllability would become central to

core, they ask humans to stop viewing

framework that considers nutrition,

horses simply through the lens of

environment, physical health,

usefulness and begin seeing the world

behavioural interactions and mental

from the horse’s perspective. Drawing

state as deeply interconnected parts of

riders to understand.

on decades of research and practical

welfare. Rather than focusing solely on

According to Andrew, all animals are

experience, he discussed everything

preventing suffering, the model

deeply driven to seek control within

from conflict behaviour and self-carriage

recognises that a horse’s wellbeing is

their environment, constantly learning

to turnout, social connection and the

shaped not only by physical care, but by

which signals predict safety, reward or

emotional lives of horses.

how the animal experiences its life

danger. Horses, in particular, thrive

emotionally. But Andrew believed

when the world around them feels

something was still missing.

understandable.

Several years ago, during a presentation

In training, that sense of security comes

As Andrew explains, animals were historically valued almost entirely through utility, with welfare discussions

the discussion - and perhaps one of the most important welfare concepts for

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24 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

F E AT U R E

from clarity. “When you ride horses … you give a signal, and then the horse gives a reaction, and then the signal should diminish … and that gives the horse a feeling that he's in control.”

Good training allows the horse to understand the question being asked and discover the answer that switches pressure off. Over time, the horse begins to feel safe within the training process

subtle. And all of them matter.

To Andrew, these behaviours are not random acts of resistance, but indicators that the horse is struggling emotionally within the training environment.

events emotionally or consciously dwelling on experiences. But chronic confusion and insecurity still leave a significant neurological imprint. “They don't mull over their experiences,” he

That same philosophy extends into his

explains. “But all the neural pathways

discussion around self-carriage -

are not really aligning in their brains for

something he views not simply as a

calmness and relaxation.”

dressage concept, but as a significant

because the outcomes become

welfare marker. “When he's in self-

predictable.

carriage, that gives the horse back the

But when signals become inconsistent

humans do. They are not replaying

feelings of self-control,” he says.

Over time, that emotional instability can begin surfacing physically through heightened reactivity, compromised immunity and stress-related illness.

or contradictory, that emotional stability

For Andrew, genuine self-carriage

“They can become ill, or they can get

can quickly begin to unravel.

reflects far more than posture or outline.

colic more often, and they suffer from

It demonstrates that the horse

immune problems.”

Andrew points to common examples riders unknowingly create every day - particularly the simultaneous use of rein and leg aids that ask opposing questions at the same moment. Horses trying to interpret conflicting pressures are often left navigating confusion rather than clarity. “The horse has a choice to answer the one that basically is the most aversive to him,” he explains.

Over time, these moments can manifest as what Andrew refers to as “conflict behaviour” - behaviours that are frequently misunderstood within the

understands the aids clearly enough to

"It’s a subtle but powerful reframing.

Rather than asking what is wrong with the horse, Andrew believes riders should begin asking what the horse may be trying to communicate."

But Andrew believes those labels fundamentally miss the point. “We should see these issues of conflict behaviour … not as problems that are the horse's fault, but actually problems in our training.”

It’s a subtle but powerful reframing.

Rather than asking what is wrong with the horse, Andrew believes riders should begin asking what the horse may be trying to communicate.

Conflict behaviour, he explains, occurs when animals become torn between competing motivations. In horses, this can appear as tension, tail swishing, grinding teeth, rushing, rearing or

horses are simply labelled ‘sensitive’ rather than understood more deeply.

What becomes increasingly clear is that the Five Domains are not abstract scientific concepts removed from everyday horsemanship. They are deeply practical, influencing how horses experience training, handling, competition, stabling and daily life.

And perhaps most importantly, they challenge humans to reconsider long-held assumptions about horses

horse world as stubbornness, disobedience or bad attitude.

Too often, Andrew believes, these

maintain rhythm, balance and direction without constant restraint from the rider.

“If you release both reins … and he raises his head and quickens, then he

themselves. “We should flip the whole thing around and not use any terms to describe horses that are derogatory,” Andrew says. “But actually look at more the possibility that maybe we could do

wasn't in self-carriage.”

something in our training schemes to do

It’s one of several moments in the

a better job with them.”

conversation where Andrew gently

It’s a philosophy grounded not in

challenges the direction of modern

sentimentality, but in understanding.

horse sport. He believes the future must continue moving toward rewarding relaxation, natural movement and harmony rather than tension or artificially

Not dominance. Not force. Not simply performance. But communication, predictability and emotional security.

exaggerated expression. "We should be

And according to Dr Andrew McLean,

going to harnessing the horse's natural

that may ultimately become the future of

movements and not making artificial

good horsemanship itself.

movements.”

Dr. McLean offers a variety of two

bolting. Sometimes the signs are

Importantly, Andrew stresses that horses

excellent courses through Equitation

dramatic. Often they are incredibly

do not process stress the same way

Science International.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 25

TRAINING

Follow the Feel: The Fundamentals of Long Reining In Part Two of Foundation to Finished, DONAL HANCOCK breaks down the fundamentals of long reining and why it remains one of the most valuable tools in horsemanship.

B

efore a horse can confidently carry a rider, it first needs to understand pressure, direction

control and under-saddle work, a chance for the horse to understand basic ridden manoeuvres, develop coordination and

feel under saddle.

Remember that your surcingle/roller has different levels of rings. A simple way to

and softness from the ground. Long

muscle memory, and learn without the

reining can often be overlooked, but for

weight of a rider on its back.

me it's one of the most valuable tools in

It also gives you a lot of visual feedback

creating a soft, educated horse before

from the ground, allowing you to see

ever climbing into the saddle. It’s a really

how they execute the questions you're

Exercise 1: I never hook up two reins

important bridge between your ground

asking without having to rely purely on

straight away. The horse first has to

26 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

remember what each ring means is: the lower the ring, the lower the level of education. Let's get started.

ABOVE LEFT: Commencing with one rein in Exercise 1. ABOVE RIGHT: Disengaging the hip in Exercise 2. LEFT: Long reining is one of the most valuable tools in horsemanship (All images courtesy of Donal Hancock). understand what one rein means and respond correctly, so I work with one rein

hindquarter.

fence, it will only learn to travel along the fence and may struggle to be controlled

surcingle. This creates a wider, more

Stand back from the horse's hip and ask it to come through the turn until it is facing you. Then walk back in and laterally flex your horse again to make sure that response is still there. Repeat

lateral feel of pressure, similar to how

on both sides.

long rein and ask your horse to come

Exercise 3: Send your horse out on the

across the centre - in other words, come

at a time. The way I set this up is by directing one rein through the bit and back to your desired ring on the

you would use your hands under saddle with a less educated horse.

I start with lateral flexion, just as I do in the halter for ground control. Stand beside the horse at the girth line, pick up the long rein and ask the horse to bend its head and neck. Just like in your halter work, if the horse moves its feet, hold the pressure until it comes to a standstill, then release.

Exercise 2: Disengaging the Hip With the one rein connected the same way, stand on the opposite side to

edge of the round yard in a circle. This exercise starts introducing the idea of a one-rein stop. Once the horse is travelling comfortably on the circle, pick up the rein and - importantly - say ‘whoa’. Wait until the horse faces you and comes to a complete standstill, then stop and let it rest.

Once the horse has settled, walk in and this time back it up off the rein pressure, introducing the backup. Then check your lateral flexion again.

where the pressure on the bit will be

Exercise 4: Wagon Wheel - A horse's

applied. Slide the rein over the horse's

feet have to be able to follow its nose. If you always let your horse rely on the

ears, down over its back and behind the

in open ground (arenas, paddocks, etc.).

From a bird's-eye view, picture your round yard as a wagon wheel. You need to be able to pick up contact through the

off the fence - before travelling back out to the outside again. This creates the spokes of your wagon wheel.

Repeat this in different spots around your round yard. For this exercise, you'll need to move your feet and position your body correctly to keep your horse moving forward through the pressure.

Usually, encouraging your horse forward means driving from the hindquarter. This exercise simply ensures your horse can come off the fence and that its feet are following its nose. Repeat on both sides.

Exercise 5: Spiral In, Spiral Out This is another exercise that reinforces E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 27

TRAINING

ABOVE: When you work on two reins they should be connected through your chosen surcingle ring and straight to the bit. the connection between the horse's feet

around the outside of your round yard.

across the centre of your round yard

and nose. Start your horse on a large

Once the horse is travelling comfortably,

and, as it reaches the opposite side, turn

circle, then gradually shorten your long

ask for your first change of direction by

and go the other direction. To stop your

rein and bring the horse into a smaller

taking contact on the outside rein and

circle. Once you're happy there, apply

horse, take contact on both reins and

gently turning the horse into the fence

pressure around the girth line - where

ask for a nice square stop. However long

until it can come through the turn and

your leg would naturally sit while riding

travel the other direction.

- and ask the horse to yield out, making the circle larger again.

it takes in the beginning, wait for it, then release the rein pressure. There is a lot

Let the fence help train your horse. At

more to long reining - more technical

the same time, allow whichever rein

Repeat until the movement feels smooth

details and more advanced exercises -

becomes the outside rein to slide

and consistent, then finish with a

but these are some of the fundamental

through your hand so the horse has

one-rein stop and release. Repeat on

basics to establish first.

room to move through the turn without

both sides.

excess pressure. Like everything else,

Developing muscle coordination and

Two Reins: Now it's time to connect

once your horse is turning with little to

muscle memory is important for both you

two reins. These should be connected

no resistance on the fence, it's time to

and your horse, and that takes time.

through your chosen surcingle ring and

take it off the fence again - just like the

Don't be in a hurry. Your horse doesn't

straight to the bit. This stage requires a

Wagon Wheel exercise.

need you to be.

certain level of coordination with your body movement and timing of rein release.

Start by moving your horse forward 28 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

Think of it like a yin and yang symbol.

Take your horse off the fence, move your body toward the hindquarter to encourage forward movement, drive

For details of upcoming lesson and clinic opportunities, visit Hancock Horsemanship. You can follow Donal on Instagram.

TRAINING

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F E AT U R E

Tour d'Horse 2026 Bringing together retired racehorses, racing royalty, Olympians and young survivors, KIDS Foundation's TOUR D'HORSE 2026 proved that some of the most important journeys are those travelled together, one step at a time.

A

cross six days in the Upper

Belltrees Station, raising vital funds

recognised the unique ability horses

Hunter Valley, Tour d'Horse

for KIDS Foundation and the children,

have to create confidence, connection

2026 brought together racing

young people and families it supports.

and trust. Tour d'Horse brings together

royalty, Olympians, entertainers,

The challenge is physically demanding.

that lifelong connection with horses and

survivors and retired racehorses to raise

The purpose behind it is far greater.

KIDS Foundation's mission of helping

funds for children and families impacted

The Vision Behind the Ride

children and families navigate recovery

by trauma, injury and life-changing illness. More than a fundraising ride, it is a powerful demonstration of the connection, community and hope at the heart of recovery.

Tour d'Horse was founded by KIDS Foundation CEO Dr Susie O'Neill OAM,

The event also carries a deeply personal

whose passion for supporting children

significance. Following the loss of her

and families recovering from trauma has

granddaughter Bella in 2021, Dr O'Neill

shaped the organisation for decades.

channelled grief into purpose, creating

In the horse world, we are accustomed to measuring success. Fastest time.

Highest score. First past the post. Tour d'Horse asks a different question. What if the most important journeys aren't about winning? What if the greatest achievement is simply continuing to move forward?

That philosophy sits at the heart of Tour

opportunities to support other families

"In the horse world, we are accustomed to measuring success.

Fastest time. Highest score. First past the post.

Tour d'Horse asks a different question."

d'Horse, a six-day charity ride through

the most unique and meaningful events on Australia's racing and equestrian calendar.

facing unimaginable challenges. That legacy remains woven throughout the event through Team Ride 4 Bella and the Bella Fund, which supports families navigating Spinal Muscular Atrophy through KIDS Foundation programs.

What began as an ambitious fundraising idea has become one of the most inspiring events on the Australian horse

the New South Wales' Upper Hunter Valley that has quickly become one of

following trauma and injury.

calendar.

KIDS Foundation is a national charity supporting children, young people and families impacted by trauma, injury, burns, rare genetic conditions

Now in its third year, following a 2025

and life-changing events. Through

Tour that raised more than $1.17 million,

recovery, education, wellbeing and

Tour d'Horse has grown into a national

prevention programs, the organisation

movement that unites the racing,

helps participants rebuild confidence,

equestrian, agricultural and broader

resilience and connection while also

Australian communities around a

delivering important safety education

common purpose.

initiatives across Australia.

Across six days and almost 200

For Dr O'Neill, horses have always

kilometres, 27 teams rode through the

represented something powerful.

spectacular landscape surrounding

A lifelong horse lover herself, she

Where Horses Create Connection Unlike many fundraising events, Tour d'Horse places horses at the centre of the experience. Riders are partnered predominantly with retired racehorses, showcasing the versatility, adaptability and generosity that make Thoroughbreds such valued partners long after their racing careers have ended.

LEFT: Jamie and Ben Melham riding for the Victorian Jockey's Association team (Image by Nicole Cleary Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 31

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: KIDS volunteers, supporters and participants at the Scone Race Club (Image by Sarah Ebbett of Hunter Media).

For six days, riders travel together

positive role horses can play in

bringing momentum from another

through the Upper Hunter Valley

wellbeing, resilience and recovery.

outstanding year for the stable.

aboard horses kindly provided and

And Industry Coming Together

The thoroughbred industry's most

One of the most remarkable aspects

recognised organisations, including

of Tour d'Horse is the breadth of

Coolmore Australia, Yulong, Emirates

support it receives. Few events could

Park, Newgate and James Harron

bring champion trainers, bloodstock

Bloodstock, were among those backing

operators, Olympians, jockeys,

the event, alongside industry leaders

equestrians and rural businesses

Magic Millions and Inglis.

together in quite the same way.

Further support came from across

supported by the White family of Belltrees Station, one of Australia's most iconic pastoral properties. Anto White OAM and Alec White play a central role in the event, not only hosting the ride but helping ensure the horses at the heart of the Tour are ready for the journey ahead.

Australia's most successful racing

the broader racing and breeding

Long before conversations flow around

operations were represented in 2026,

industry, including Aushorse,

the campfire, they often begin beside a

including champion trainers Chris

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia,

horse. For many participants, time spent

Waller, Gai Waterhouse AO and Adrian

the Victorian Jockeys' Association,

around horses provides moments of

Bott, Michael Freedman, Anthony and

Godolphin Lifetime Care, Bell River

calm, reflection and connection that can

Sam Freedman, Peter Snowden, as well

Thoroughbreds, Makybe Stables,

be difficult to find elsewhere.

as McEvoy Mitchell Racing's Tony and

Thenford Farm, Bennett Racing and the

Calvin McEvoy.

MRC Foundation.

but also showcases the extraordinary

The 2025 winning team, McEvoy

The equestrian community was equally

second careers available to retired

Mitchell Racing, returned to defend its

well represented, with Boneo Park, one

racehorses, while highlighting the

title, with riders Jo and Demi McEvoy

of Australia's most respected equestrian

Tour d'Horse not only raises vital funds

32 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

F E AT U R E

destinations, involved throughout the

jockeys, broadcasters, entertainers,

Ambassador Emma Hawkins rode as

week.

industry leaders and members of the

part of the KIDS Foundation team,

wider horse community.

while husband and AFL champion

Organisations including Petstock Foundation, Banter Foundation, the

Olympian and KIDS Foundation Tour

Grant Family Foundation, RB Sellars,

d'Horse Ambassador Amanda Ross

Oreana, Hyundai, Kubota and Johnson's

joined the ride alongside Paralympian

Natural Formula further strengthened

Emma Booth. Both women brought

the event's national reach, while

their own stories of resilience and

respected rural and agricultural

determination to the journey while

properties Woolooma Station and

helping champion the mission and

Somerstone Farm reflected the strong

impact of KIDS Foundation.

regional support behind the Tour.

For Emma Booth, the week carried

Tom Hawkins volunteered his time throughout the week supporting participants, families and local communities. One memorable stop saw him visit the Muswellbrook Cats, connecting with young players and families and sharing stories, encouragement and plenty of laughs.

Champion jockeys Jamie Melham, Ben Melham, Rachel King and Darren

The result was a unique collaboration

special significance. During the Tour,

spanning racing, breeding, equestrian

the Paralympian was announced

sport, agriculture and business, all

cause. For Jamie Melham, returning

as a KIDS Foundation Tour d'Horse

after her experience in 2025 was

united by the belief that every child

Ambassador, marking an emotional

particularly meaningful. Despite a year

deserves support, connection and

moment that reflected the strong

that included victories in both the

hope.

connection she had formed with the

Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup, she

The People of Tour d'Horse

event, its participants and the wider

described Tour d'Horse as one of the

Tour d'Horse community.

highlights of her year.

Media personality and KIDS Foundation

Broadcaster Hamish McLachlan joined

Among those pulling on their riding boots this year were Olympians,

Beadman all lent their support to the

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 33

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Eden and Australia quickly became friends. BELOW: Olympian Amanda Ross joined the ride aboard Bohemia, bringing her own story of resilience and determination (Images by Nicole Cleary Photography).

34 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Double D getting a kiss from an Inglis rider (Image by Nicole Cleary Photography).

riders on the trail, while acclaimed

the focus remains firmly on the young

before becoming a mentor and role

director Simon Wincer and KIDS

people and families whose stories

model for other young people facing

Foundation Ambassador Abigail Vidler

inspire every kilometre.

adversity.

also supported the event. Although

At the Heart of the Tour

Team Thiele rode in his honour

At the centre of everything is Camp

throughout the week.

unable to attend in person due to unforeseen circumstances, actor and entertainer Tom Burlinson remained part of the Tour d'Horse story, sharing

TANGO — Together Achieving New Goals and Opportunities.

Team Ride 4 Bella carried another powerful story, honouring Bella's

a special video message with riders,

The transformative KIDS Foundation

memory while raising funds for families

participants and supporters during

program supports young survivors as

navigating Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

Yellowstone Night.

they rebuild confidence, resilience and

Adding further star power, Olympic swimming champion Ariarne Titmus

independence following trauma, injury or disabling health conditions.

Other young participants brought equally moving stories of courage and resilience Awheata, whose story of

joined the week, helping shine a

Each Tour d'Horse team is paired with

resilience touched many throughout the

national spotlight on the cause and

a Camp TANGO participant, creating a

week, became one of the faces of the

spending time with KIDS Foundation

powerful connection between the ride

Tour, while Winter reminded everyone

participants and families.

and the real-life journeys it represents.

why the event matters so deeply. The

Australian country music star James

Among the most inspiring stories is that

ride may cover almost 200 kilometres.

Johnston also became part of the Tour

of KIDS Foundation Youth Ambassador

The personal journeys represented by

d'Horse story, providing unforgettable

Matt Thiele.

those participants are often far longer.

A survivor of a devastating car fire at

Life Around the Campfire

just three years of age, Matt endured

Some of the most memorable moments

years of treatment and rehabilitation

occurred after the riding had finished.

campfire performances that quickly became highlights of the week.

Despite the calibre of names involved,

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 35

F E AT U R E

36 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: KIDS Foundation participant Eden with the Tour d'Horse Trophy and all 27 Teams behind her at Gundy Base Camp.

LEFT: On the home straight. Tour d'Horse riders arriving at Scone Race Club (Image by Sarah Ebbett of Hunter Media).

As the sun set over the Upper

There were conversations between

speed, competition and individual

Hunter, riders, volunteers, families

people whose lives may never

achievement, Tour d'Horse offers

and participants gathered around

otherwise have intersected. Those

another perspective.

campfires to share meals, stories and

moments of genuine connection are

experiences.

what many participants describe as the

One where compassion matters.

true magic of Tour d'Horse.

Where community comes first.

Young survivor Maggie delivered

Crossing the Line Together

And where success is measured not

a moving rendition of the National

As Tour d'Horse 2026 drew to a close,

The opening evening set the tone.

Anthem, while Awheata bravely

riders arrived at Scone Race Club for

by how quickly you arrive, but by how many people you help along the way.

one final moment.

For six unforgettable days in the

powerful reminder of the courage and

There would be no dramatic finish.

Upper Hunter Valley, horses brought

resilience at the heart of the event.

No individual champion.

purpose. As the 27 teams came

performed for the crowd, creating a

Later in the week, James Johnston's performances became a focal point of evening celebrations.

One of the most emotional moments came when Awheata joined Johnston around the campfire, creating a memory

No one crossing the line alone.

Riders crossed the famous Scone straight in two heats before coming together in a powerful display of unity that captured the spirit of the week.

It was a powerful image. One that

people together in support of a shared together at Scone Race Club, the message was simple: no one should have to face challenges alone. It was a fitting final image for an event built on connection, community and the belief that recovery is a journey best travelled together.

that many riders and supporters would

captured everything Tour d'Horse

carry long after the week had ended.

represents.

To find out more about Tour d'Horse

There were tears. There was laughter.

In a world often focused on

2026, visit their website.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 37

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: Long time supporter John Grant, KIDS Ambassador Matt Thiele, Director Simon Wincer and Mary Grant.

BELOW: Back Row L-R: Matt Thiele, Rider Sophie Johnson, Lucy Holland, Leanne McPherson, Emma Coleman. Front Row L-R: Brothers Fletcher and Spencer Connelly (Images by Nicole Cleary Photography).

38 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

F E AT U R E

ABOVE: KIDS Board Kate Emerson, Dr Susie O'Neill OAM, Chairman Jo Stuckey, and Hamish McLachlan. BELOW: The Hyett family - Dan and Lucy with children Winter, Eden and Beau - participated at Camp TANGO (Images by Nicole Cleary Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 39

F E AT U R E

40 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

Across six days and almost 200 kilometres, 27 teams F E AT U R Erode through the spectacular landscape surrounding Belltrees Station (Images by Nicole Cleary Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 41

42 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B OCTOBER 2 0 2 5

C H AT W I T H A C H A M P I O N

Will Matthew WILL MATTHEW arrived in Europe in 2011. Since then, he has trained with some of Europe's top riders and represented Australia at the 2024 Olympics.

EH: You’ve gone from Pony Club in

final - was a landmark moment. What

horses at home then drove to Paris with

Western Australia to representing

did that experience mean to you

Mysterious Star. I think when I just stay

Australia at the Paris Olympics. Looking

personally?

busy I don’t get as nervous.

back, did you ever imagine the journey

WM: It was huge, I mean just getting

Then I think in Paris there’s so much

would take you this far?

there was already a huge deal for me,

going on you stay busy, so for me it

WM: I mean I wasn’t sure if it would

and then to actually be able to get a

work out but I always dreamed of it

personal best and be able to show our

and tried to make it happen, and the

best made me really proud.

fact that it did really made all the years

EH: Walking into Versailles as part of

saying to me: “Whatever you do, don’t

the Australian Olympic team must have

change your system because you're

EH: You’ve spoken openly about not

been surreal. What’s the moment that

here, your system is what got you here

growing up with your own horses and

stands out most vividly when you think

so stick to it.” So I had a nice dinner and

leasing riding school horses instead.

back on Paris?

a beer the evening before with the team,

How much did those early experiences

WM: I think the first training on the

slept well and rode as good as I could!!

main arena. Walking into the arena with

EH: Looking back now, what’s the

completely worth it!

shape the horseman you are today?

worked really well. We were also in the accommodation with the eventing team, and I will always remember Shane Rose

WM: I think it completely shaped the

Mysterious Star it suddenly hit that we

rider I am, it’s made me appreciate what

had made it!

home from Paris?

I have now so much more. It also made

EH: Australia was the only non-

WM: Just that all the years of hard work

European nation to qualify for the

was worth it and if you believe in yourself

dressage team final. What do you think

and your horse everything is possible,

that says about the direction Australian

but you really do have to believe in

dressage is heading?

yourself and especially your horse!

WM: It was really special for Australian

Career & High Performance

me search for the potential in any horse I was lucky enough to ride, I didn’t have options so if I did get the ride of a horse I had to make the best out of everything I got to sit on. I think it made me more open minded about what could be achieved with every horse.

EH: At 17, you headed to Europe for

dressage. Being on the team with Simone and Jayden was also special because I think we all came from similar

what was meant to be a gap year -

backgrounds. We had the dream,

what gave you the confidence to take

worked our asses off, and found a way

that leap?

to make it happen. I hope it can inspire

WM: I think my family, perhaps they

other young Australians to see that it's

biggest lesson or takeaway you carried

EH: You’ve spent years immersed in the European dressage world. What’s something Australian riders might be surprised to learn about the day-to-day reality of elite dressage overseas?

WM: It’s not glamorous at all. All your

couldn’t financially support me, but my

possible.

idols are also working there butts off

parents never made me think anything

EH: The Olympic environment brings

everything you could possible achieve

was impossible. I always told them my goals and they basically just said work hard and go for it! And I think having that in your corner gives you all the confidence you need, having people believe it’s possible.

Paris Olympics

enormous pressure and expectation.

How did you mentally prepare yourself to perform on that stage?

WM: To be honest I didn’t do any

every day. Look at Isabell, she’s achieved in the sport and still every day she was in the stable on the first horse at 7:30am riding - and not just the special horses, everything, young horses and difficult

special mental preparation, somehow

ones. But you have to do it for the love

the more pressure I have the better I

of the horses and the sport because

seem to ride which has helped me a lot.

EH: Representing Australia at the Paris

I think being around Isabell for so long

Olympics - and helping the Australian

made me realise I had to treat it like any

dressage team qualify for the team

other test. I got up at 4:00am, rode five

LEFT: Will, aboard longtime partner Mysterious Star, acknowledges spectators at Versailles (Image by Michelle Terlato Photography).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 43

ABOVE: A personal best at the Paris Olympics was a landmark moment for Will (Image by Libby Law Photography). if you're just doing it for the glamour

begins to also add its own personality

EH: You’ve trained Mysterious Star

and the big shows you won’t make it,

and fight for you in the test.

since he was five years old. What

because that stuff is only 10% of the time.

Partnership & Horsemanship

makes that partnership so special?

EH: Dressage is often described

EH: What does a typical day look like

WM: I think the time involved. I ended

as both an art and a science. When

for you in the barn when you’re not

up knowing him like the back of my

everything comes together in the

competing?

hand. He was so in sync with me, which

arena, what does it actually feel like?

WM: A typical days starts between

WM: The best feeling you could imagine, especially the Grand Prix. It’s so damn difficult. Getting a mistake free test is already a big deal, but then to add the harmony or the spectacular moments and have no mistakes, then it’s magic.

EH: At elite level, where the margins are so fine, what do you think separates a good test from a truly exceptional one?

WM: Being so safe in all the exercises that you can actually start to ride the feeling in the corners on the short sides in the details, and not just surviving each movement mistake free. And I think this comes from experience and not just from the rider, but from the horse, that the horse also starts to know what’s coming and what is expected and 44 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

6:30-7:00am. I normally start with driving the arenas, which I like it’s a easy job but quite satisfying and it’s nice to start the day with a nice fresh arena. Then I start riding. Normally I start with the threeyear-olds while the yard is still nice and quiet and I can be relaxed and focused.

Then at 9:00am my groom Claire Schreiber arrives, and from that point I’m in the arena and Claire is bringing me the horses to ride.

I’m then riding until about 2:00pm which is when Claire finishes her day, typically I will then eat lunch quick and then I will normally have a couple of lessons to teach and whichever horses I didn’t get a chance to ride in the morning. I would

was a good and bad thing because he also felt it much more if I wasn’t my best.

It also feels so much more special to see what he became through time and training, I don’t know if anyone really expected that when they saw him as a young horse.

EH: What qualities do you value most in a dressage horse?

WM: Character and work ethic. Grand Prix horses just love to work, it’s already built into them. Sometimes it makes them a bit wild as young horses, but once you can train them to channel the energy into the work, it starts to be automatic that they often offer you more than you want - then as a rider you just have to stop yourself from being greedy.

say normally I’m working between 10 to

EH: Has your approach to training

12 horses each day.

evolved throughout your career?

ABOVE: Dressage is 10 per cent glamour 90 per cent hard work (Image courtesy Will Matthew).

WM: Yes completely. It’s always

mean to you?

A training exercise you always come

evolving and I’m always learning. I think

WM: It’s really important to me, I think

back to? Trot canter transitions. You can

the biggest thing is to always be open

because I’ve been overseas for so

never go wrong with good trot canter

minded - the horses will teach you a lot.

long being able to represent Australia

transitions. No matter the horse or

EH: What’s one lesson horses have

makes me feel closer to Australia again.

education level, really good transitions

taught you that extends well beyond

Australia will always be home and I’m

will always make the horses better.

riding?

very proud to be able to represent

WM: Patience, good things take time,

Australia

Best piece of advice you’ve received?

Ask for as much as possible but never

and to always look for new opportunities

EH: What does success mean to

more than necessary. Isabell said this to

and realise when a good opportunity is

you now, compared to earlier in your

me a lot, and it goes for all the training, I

in front of you, whether it’s a good horse

career?

think it’s great! You should still push the

or a new client or a new job.

WM: I think it means the same to me

horses sometimes to that next level, but

EH: What advice would you give

as it always has, you know I’ve always

you have to know what they’re capable

young Australian riders hoping to

wanted to be successful but perhaps

of and never go over that point.

pursue dressage professionally or

now I’ve realised it’s not just about

internationally?

competition success. For me now it’s

Show morning coffee order? Just a

WM: Go for it! But you have to be

about successfully training a young

simple black coffee.

prepared to work hard. But in the end

horse through the levels, feeling the first

One thing you always have in your tack

it pays off and is totally worth it. You

flying change, or the first piaffe, or just

box or grooming bag? Sugar, you never

have to be open to learn no matter the

a really great transition, these moments

know when you need some extra treats

situation and to always have your eyes

bring me just as much happiness now.

Favourite event to ride at? CHIO

open for new opportunities.

Quick 6

Aachen, it really is a whole different

Reflection

EH: After so many years overseas, what does representing Australia still

Favourite moments to ride? Piaffe

world to other horse shows.

passage, when you have it’s really on point there’s nothing better!

You can follow Will on Instagram.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 45

oil has emerged as one of the most

NUTRITION

valuable additions to the equine diet.

Beyond the Shine: Why Omega-3 Matters

Rich in natural omega-3 and completely sugar and starch free, it offers a safe, highly effective energy source for all horses - particularly those suffering from metabolic disorders or laminitis.

For decades, traditional conditioning programs relied heavily on grain-based feeds to improve weight and condition.

Omega-3 rich flaxseed oil is a valuable tool in supporting condition, recovery, coat quality, and long-term wellbeing from the inside out, writes SARA OSAULENKO.

A

While these feeds may increase calories, they often come at a cost.

High sugar and starch levels can place significant stress on the digestive and metabolic systems, increasing the risk

s awareness grows around

the surface, true health begins at a

of inflammation, insulin dysregulation,

inflammation, metabolic health,

cellular level - and one of the most

excitability, and laminitic episodes.

and low-starch feeding, omega-3

influential nutrients in modern equine

Flaxseed oil offers a different approach.

rich flaxseed oil is emerging as one of the most valuable tools in modern equine

nutrition is omega-3.

As a 'good fat', omega-3 rich flaxseed oil

As horse owners become increasingly

provides concentrated calories without

aware of the role nutrition plays in

the risks associated with grain-heavy

A shiny coat and healthy topline may

performance, recovery, metabolic

feeding. Rather than producing rapid

suggest a horse is thriving. But beneath

health, and overall wellbeing, flaxseed

spikes in blood glucose and insulin, fat

nutrition.

46 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

NUTRITION

TOP: A shiny coat suggests a horse is thriving, but true health begins at a cellular level (Image by Lisa Gordon, Equinet Media).

LEFT: Omega-3 supplementation helps to support the horse from the inside out. (Image by Lisa Gordon, Equinet Media). delivers cool, slow-release energy that

efficiently, supporting energy and

muscle soreness, skin irritation, gastric

supports condition and bodyweight

condition without unnecessary heat.

stress, and laminitis. Modern equine

safely.

One of the first visible changes owners

This is particularly important for horses

notice after introducing omega-3 is an

diagnosed with Equine Metabolic

improvement in coat quality. Horses

Syndrome (EMS), insulin resistance,

often develop deeper colour, enhanced

Cushing’s disease, or chronic laminitis.

shine, softer skin, and improved overall

These horses require careful dietary management, with strict control over sugar and starch intake. Because pure flaxseed oil contains neither sugar nor starch, it provides an ideal calorie source for horses needing additional condition without compromising metabolic stability.

bloom. While many products attempt to create shine externally, omega-3 works

fatty acids through processed feeds and vegetable oils. While omega-6 fats are necessary in moderation, an imbalance between omega-6 and omega-3 can promote chronic inflammation throughout the body.

Omega-3 fatty acids help restore that

"Inflammation is now recognised as a major contributing factor in many equine health issues."

balance.

Flaxseed oil is naturally rich in omega-3 and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory.

By helping moderate inflammatory responses, omega-3 may assist horses

When fed at higher rates, flaxseed oil can assist with healthy weight gain

internally by supporting skin health and

and maintaining topline, making it

cellular integrity from within.

highly beneficial for poor doers, older

diets are frequently high in omega-6

dealing with stiffness, recovery issues, skin conditions, and hoof sensitivity.

For horses prone to laminitis, reducing

But the true power of omega-3 extends

inflammation is a critical component of

well beyond appearance.

long-term management.

cereal grains, which can contribute to

Inflammation is now recognised as a

Laminitis remains one of the most

behavioural changes and digestive

major contributing factor in many equine

devastating and painful conditions

upset, omega-3 fats are metabolised

health issues, including joint discomfort,

affecting horses today. Characterised

horses, performance horses, and those recovering from illness or stress. Unlike

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 47

48 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

NUTRITION

ABOVE: Research is exploring the role omega-3 plays in supporting post-exercise recovery, mobility, and long-term soundness through its anti-inflammatory properties. by inflammation and damage within

works alongside the horse’s natural

and suitability for horses requiring

the sensitive laminae of the hoof,

digestive design.

low sugar, low starch diets. Freshness

Performance horses are another

and manufacturing quality also matter

laminitis can severely impact comfort, soundness, and quality of life. While no single supplement can “cure” laminitis,

group benefiting from omega-3

greatly, as omega oils can deteriorate if

supplementation. Horses in regular

poorly stored or processed.

training place considerable stress

Ultimately, omega-3 supplementation is

on muscles, joints, and soft tissues.

not simply about creating a glossy coat -

Research continues to explore the

A sugar and starch free omega-3 source

it is about supporting the horse from the

role omega-3 plays in supporting

allows owners to increase calories safely

inside out.

post-exercise recovery, mobility, and

without feeding ingredients known

long-term soundness through its anti-

to exacerbate metabolic dysfunction.

inflammatory properties.

nutritional support plays a major role in reducing risk factors and supporting recovery.

Combined with correct veterinary care and pasture management, omega-3 supplementation can form an important

free flaxseed oil has become one of the most effective and practical nutritional

support program.

cell membranes rely on essential fatty

Horses evolved to thrive on forage, not

and metabolic support, sugar and starch

omega-3 also supports immunity, skin

part of a comprehensive laminitis

significantly from fat-based nutrition.

condition to inflammation management

Beyond performance and condition, health, and overall resilience. Healthy

Digestive health also benefits

From safer weight gain and improved

acids, making omega-3 fundamental to

tools available in modern horse care.

In an era where equine health

many biological processes throughout

challenges are increasingly linked to

the body.

inflammation and diet, returning to simple, functional nutrition may be one

large quantities of processed grain.

Importantly, not all oils are created

Excess starch can disrupt hindgut

equal. Many cheaper oils commonly

fermentation and contribute to digestive

used in feeds are high in omega-6 and

imbalance, behavioural issues, and

provide limited anti-inflammatory benefit.

Looking for more info on oils? Visit

metabolic stress. Flaxseed oil provides

High-quality flaxseed oil stands apart

Canterwell's website and follow them on

a safer alternative energy source that

due to its elevated omega-3 profile

Facebook.

of the most powerful decisions horse owners can make.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 49

50 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B OCTOBER 2 0 2 5

FOUNDERS

Built on a Dream From building a global equestrian app to creating Equestrian Trade and Business Australia, HANNAH JAYDE BASETTI is bringing the equestrian industry together through connection, collaboration and bold ideas EH: Tell us a little about your journey

businesses in the marketing and

I continued riding until mid-2025, when I

- how did horses first become part of

operations space. From there, I joined

unfortunately had a fall training cross-

your life?

Ridely as their Australian and New

country and completely ruptured my

HJB: I was really lucky to be introduced

Zealand Country Manager, supporting

ACL. This meant a full reconstruction

the growth and development of the app

surgery and 18 months on strict no-riding

on this side of the world.

orders from my surgeon. As sad as this

to horses by my mum! As a young child, she had grown up riding horses and was

was, it has also given me more time to

still in touch with friends she used to

During this time, I witnessed a real

ride with. They were nice enough to let

disconnect within the Australian

me come down to the property regularly

equestrian industry. It felt closed off,

EH: Looking back, how much do you

to learn how to ride and care for the

there was not much collaboration

think the equestrian community shaped

horses. From there horses became a

and there seemed to be a strong fear

the person and professional you’ve

lifestyle, not just a hobby.

of competitors. Internationally, I had

become?

My parents were always extremely

witnessed the power of businesses

HJB: I 110% put the progression of my

supportive of my love of horses, which

coming together for mutual benefit and

allowed me to continue riding at Pony

growth.

focus on building ETBA.

career and life down to my experiences at Pony Club and growing up with

Club until I was in my early twenties and

horses. I was extremely shy as a

be lucky enough to own some fantastic

young child, never wanting to speak to

ponies along the way who taught me everything I know about being a horsewoman today.

After school, I completed a Bachelor Degree of Sports Management, specialising in Active Communities and Exercise Science. This continued my love of the business side of things,

"Pony Club gave me a sense of purpose, quality friendships and, over time, the ability to do things outside of my comfort zone."

as well as opening my mind to the

strangers or even order food at a local café. No oral presentations at school and certainly no public speaking in front of a hundred people!

Pony Club gave me a sense of purpose, quality friendships and, over time, the ability to do things outside of my comfort zone, which in turn built confidence and drive.

possibilities for equestrian athletes.

One day, I questioned why Australia

The idea to build an app called The

didn’t have any opportunities for

EH: You’ve built a career across

Riders Pod started here. I then spent

businesses in the industry to come

business, marketing, technology and

three years building and developing the

together to network, develop

equestrian. Does entrepreneurship feel

app, a centralised hub for equestrians

professionally and build on industry

like a natural space for you?

who wanted support with equestrian-

insights and trends as a whole. That’s

specific exercises, nutrition, goal setting,

when Equestrian Trade and Business

HJB: It does! Going back to my Pony

calendar and training management.

Australia (ETBA) was brought to life.

We went global, with riders from

The Equine Business Summit has now

club. We were based in the heart of

across the world using The Riders Pod,

become a nationally recognised annual

and built a really special and united

Melbourne and, as an inner-suburban

event where equine professionals come

community. I later sold the app to Equilab, who were based in Sweden, and started consulting for equestrian

together to learn from experts and network as an industry over two days.

Club days, I was really lucky to be at a supportive and forward-thinking

LEFT: The equestrian community has shaped Hannah as a person and a professional.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 51

FOUNDERS

LEFT: The Equine Business Summits provide a safe, welcoming environment where professionals come together to learn, network and gr Pony Club, we had to work hard at

and Keep It Cleaner were growing

ride the rollercoaster of business and

fundraising and building our club

incredible communities across the world.

everything it can throw your way - the

compared to the bigger clubs that had full cross-country courses and incredible

I wanted to give the equestrian

good and the bad.

community something they genuinely

I learnt how to negotiate, create

needed. As a competitive rider myself, I

systems, pitch really well and maximise

Through this, I gained confidence in

based the idea on my own experiences

your resources with what you have and

leadership and eventually started small

and a desire to show equestrians they

can afford.

side hustles - things like giving lessons,

are athletes, just as much as their horses

plaiting and grooming horses, and

are.

arranging riding clinics for members.

The features on The Riders Pod naturally

off and you just have to keep going!

As time went on, I realised how much

progressed from there, launching

I loved working on a project and

different tools to support riders at all

EH: You’ve since worked across

seeing it come to life. I learnt that I was

levels of competition.

creative, driven and had the mindset of

EH: Selling The Riders Pod was a huge

experiences taught you about the

milestone. What did that experience

industry as a whole?

think of an idea, execute it and enjoy the

teach you about growth, risk and

process that went with it.

backing yourself?

HJB: Although equestrian is a major

EH: You co-founded The Riders Pod, a

HJB: It was an interesting experience.

Australia is still relatively small and

wellness app designed specifically for

Selling something you had worked on

niche, with generally someone knowing

equestrians, which was later acquired

for so many years and then having no

someone, somewhere.

by Equilab. What inspired the idea

input on what happens next was hard.

facilities.

an entrepreneur - someone who could

originally?

Small business is really tough at times, especially when the excitement wears

multiple equestrian brands and businesses. What have those

contributor globally, the industry in

We should strive to continuously look

It taught me that you can only wear

outside the industry for inspiration

HJB: At the time, apps were just

so many hats at once, and to always

and learnings while bringing our

starting to take off. The likes of SWEAT

continue learning. It taught me how to

own creative flair. We have so many

52 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

FOUNDERS

row. RIGHT: The summit is held in the Skyline Room at Melbourne's iconic Flemington racetrack. incredible businesses, innovations and

to learn, network and grow. Each year,

gym, friendships and my family. Burnout

people in our industry here in Australia,

the Summit continues to reach more

is dangerous and it rarely gets anyone

and we need to continue developing

people and change the way the industry

further. Although much of the time it can

skills, networking and pushing the

values education, up-skilling and

feel like there are never enough hours

boundaries of what is possible.

professional development.

in the day, the best thing you can do is

EH: What was the driving vision

We’re now moving into the online

prioritise the

behind creating Equestrian Trade and

workshop and training space so we

work that actually moves the needle in

Business Australia, and what gap were

can continue supporting the industry

your business and delegate work that

throughout the year and reduce barriers

needs to be done but isn't high on that

such as travel, time and cost.

scale of priorities.

Australia was driven by my love of the

EH: You wear a lot of hats - founder,

Over the years, my definition of success

sport, the horses and the industry as a

strategist, rider and marketer. How do

has certainly evolved. Now, I really value

whole. It was built on a dream to bring

you navigate ambition, avoid burnout

the currency of time - time with my loved

the equestrian industry together, no

and define success today?

ones, time to travel and time to just be

matter how many times I was told, “No,

HJB: This is a really hard one when

you hoping to fill within the industry?

HJB: Equestrian Trade and Business

they won’t come to that, don’t be silly!”

you're trying to be everything to

in the moment. Success for me means being rewarded for my time, effort and hard work, while continuing to build

The vision of educating, inspiring and

everyone, all of the time. However, I

connecting the incredible professionals

guess my best advice is to remember

we have in the industry through

you can't wear all the hats all the

outstanding events and opportunities

time. Something always needs to

EH: What advice would you give to

is what continues to drive the business

give, and prioritising your own health

other women in the equestrian industry

today.

and wellbeing is extremely important

wanting to build something of their

amongst the chaos.

own?

The Equine Business Summit and ETBA provide a safe, welcoming environment where professionals can come together

strong businesses for myself and the clients I work with.

I try my best to balance my time,

HJB: Go for it. At the end of the day,

ensuring I leave space for downtime, the

you’re probably going to regret not E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 53

FOUNDERS

ABOVE: As a child, horses quickly became Hannah's lifestyle, not just a hobby. trying. Find your support network, do

Equine Business Summit. Having just

your market research before developing

completed the 2026 event and seeing

your product or service, make sure

it become such a success, my mind is

you have a strong USP and continue to

jam-packed with ideas and possibilities

educate yourself so you can continue to

for 2027, and I can’t wait to bring them

grow your idea or business.

to life.

There is always something to learn, and

The online side of ETBA is in progress,

most people are so willing to share their

and I hope to bring the industry high-

expertise. You just need to get yourself

quality training, workshops and sessions

into the right rooms with the right people

that are accessible, cost-effective and

who are going to support you along the

valuable.

bumpy road.

I also have a very exciting project in

EH: What’s next for you - and what

the works with a good friend that I will

kind of impact do you hope to make within the industry long term?

HJB: I am currently travelling Australia for three months on a working holiday with a client. Thankfully I can continue to work and progress my projects remotely while seeing what this beautiful country has to offer.

I will continue to grow ETBA and the 54 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

hopefully be able to share with you soon!

Quick 6 Coffee order? No coffee for me! I would probably explode with energy, but I sure am a sucker for a hot chocolate or a chai - iced, of course!

Most underrated business skill?

Communication and the power of networking!

Favourite Podcast? My favourites are Aspire with Emma Grede, Never Give Up with Lorna Jane and KIC Pod. One app you can't live without? Notion!

It keeps me organised and projects on track.

Dream holiday destination? Bora Bora, or an island with warm weather, blue water and no phone reception!

A piece of advice you keep coming back to: Your network is your net worth. Never underestimate the power of surrounding yourself with the right people. People who challenge you, support you and push you into rooms that may feel uncomfortable, but allow you to grow, learn and open doors to new opportunities.

Interested in learning more about Equine Trade and Business Australia?

Visit their website and follow them on Instagram.

FOUNDERS

Mornington Peninsula - Melbourne - Victoria

✓ Award Winning Equine Veterinary Practice ✓ Experienced equine veterinary team ✓ Trusted by leading owners, trainers and breeders ✓ Over 30 years of industry experience ✓ Evidence-based veterinary care ✓ Online store with Australia-wide shipping available ✓ Passionate about equine welfare and education Recognised and trusted by equine professionals across Australia's racing, breeding and performance horse industries, as well as internationally.

For further information, and to visit our online store - click here

Accredited Veterinarian www.racetrackvetservices.com

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 55

One important fact many owners are surprised to learn is that horses tolerate cold weather far better than humans

VET VIBES

do. A horse’s thermoneutral zone - the

Too Hot, Too Cold, or Just Right?

temperature range where they are most comfortable without needing to use extra energy to stay warm or cool - sits around 0-25°C. For humans, by comparison, it is closer to 25-30°C without clothing.

In other words, when you are reaching for a jacket, your horse may still be perfectly comfortable. This is why rugging decisions for your horse should never be

Winter rugging isn’t one size fits all. RACETRACK VETERINARY SERVICES shares practical advice on keeping horses comfortable, healthy and appropriately rugged through the colder months.

A

s temperatures begin to drop, rugging becomes one of the most discussed topics amongst

horse owners. Questions about rug

based solely on how cold you feel.

Horses are naturally well adapted to coping with winter conditions. Their winter coat, combined with natural behaviours such as seeking shelter and increasing forage intake, allows many of them to regulate body temperature

From a veterinary perspective, the answer is rarely straightforward. Rugging should never follow a ‘one rug fits all’

effectively. However, domestication has changed the way many horses are managed. Clipped competition horses, older horses, young horses, and those

approach. Instead, each horse should

with underlying health issues often

rugged at all, and how to tell if a horse

be assessed individually, considering

require additional support during winter.

is too hot or too cold are common

age, breed, workload, body condition,

The key principle with winter rugging

conversations in any stable yard.

environment, and overall health.

is that comfort and welfare are more

weight, whether horses should be

56 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

VET VIBES

important than following the calendar or outside temperature alone. A healthy, unclipped horse with access to shelter and adequate feed may cope perfectly well without a heavy rug, even during a Victorian winter. In contrast, a recently clipped Thoroughbred in full work may struggle to maintain body temperature without additional protection from wind and rain.

Under-rugging can have significant consequences, particularly for vulnerable horses. Horses that cannot stay warm use extra energy trying to maintain body temperature, which may lead to weight loss, reduced performance, and compromised immune function. Older horses may become stiffer through winter, while younger or underweight horses may struggle to maintain condition. Wet and windy conditions are often more problematic than cold temperatures alone, as rain and wind rapidly strip heat away from the body.

Over-rugging is equally common and can

ABOVE: Choose rugs that are durable, comfortable, breathable and waterproof.

Nutrition and rugging therefore go hand

Ultimately, good winter rugging comes

in hand. Increasing forage intake is often

down to observation and flexibility.

one of the best ways to help horses stay

Weather conditions can change quickly,

warm, as fibre digestion generates heat

and rugging plans should adapt

to dehydration, skin irritation, fungal

internally.

accordingly. Rather than relying on habit

infections, and rubbing. Overheated

Fit and rug quality are also essential

or routine, owners should regularly

horses may also become lethargic and

considerations. Poorly fitting rugs can

reassess their horse’s comfort, condition,

uncomfortable, and excessive rugging

cause rubbing, shoulder restriction,

and environment.

can interfere with the horse’s natural

pressure points, and discomfort. Rugs

ability to regulate temperature and grow

that leak or shift may leave horses colder

an appropriate winter coat.

than if they were unrugged altogether.

One of the simplest ways to assess

Durability is equally important for horses

whether a horse is comfortable is

living outdoors during unpredictable

to physically check underneath the

winter conditions.

rug. Owners should feel behind the

We choose to stock rugs by Horseware

create its own problems. Horses rugged too heavily may sweat underneath without owners realising. Excess moisture trapped against the skin can contribute

ears, under the chest, and around the shoulders. A horse that feels warm and dry is generally comfortable. If the horse feels sweaty or hot, the rug may be too heavy. If the horse feels cold, particularly around the extremities, additional warmth may be required.

Ireland for our clients because they consistently provide the quality, durability, and comfort we look for from a veterinary perspective. Features such as waterproof yet breathable materials, secure fittings, and freedom of movement around the shoulders all contribute to improved

For horse owners, winter rugging can be simplified into five key principles: 1. Assess each horse individually; 2. Check underneath rugs daily to ensure horses are warm and dry but not sweating; 3. Adjust rugs according to weather conditions and workload; 4. Prioritise nutrition and shelter alongside rugging; and 5. Invest in quality, well-fitting rugs that support comfort and movement.

By following these principles, owners can help keep their horses healthy and

Body condition also plays an important

horse comfort and welfare. Breathability

role in rugging decisions. Horses carrying

is particularly important, as horses can

adequate condition generally tolerate

quickly become damp underneath rugs

If you have any questions, get in touch

cold weather better than lean horses,

that do not allow moisture to escape

with Racetrack Veterinary Services by

as body fat provides natural insulation.

effectively.

email or through their website.

comfortable throughout winter.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 57

58 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B OCTOBER 2 0 2 5

L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G HUMBLE GLORY | 5* TOUR DE FORCE

More Than Meets the Eye

I

t was towards the end of 2023 when

Of course, that plan fell flat in the best

early 2024, when Oliver was just three

we first caught up with eventer Sophia

possible way. Hughie went from strength

months old, Sophia was already back

Hill. She and her husband Andrew had

to strength and any thought of parting

in the saddle representing Australia on

just welcomed their first child, Oliver, into

company with him was quickly forgotten!

her first senior Oceania team in New

the world, and Humble Glory (Camon Houdini), their off the track diamond in

Although a bit of a grump on the

Zealand.

ground, he proved to be very trainable,

Two months later, she and her family

and within 18 months of retiring from

packed up and headed for the United

the track, had won the Young Rider

Kingdom: "We thought well, we’ve got

Since then, Sophia has campaigned

Australian Eventing Championships at

this amazing 5* horse - let’s make the

Humble Glory, affectionately known as

Adelaide 3*. Within two years he was

Hughie, across Europe and America,

most of getting some international

successfully competing at 4*, notching

experience with him." Along with Hughie,

up multiple wins at that level - an

they took Seattle Park, an off the track

outstanding achievement by anyone's

Thoroughbred competing at 4*, and

standard.

settled in for a six-month campaign in

the rough, had rounded out the year with a string of successes.

has chased Olympic dreams, and is now firmly focussed on the 2026 international circuit and beyond.

the lead-up to Paris 2024.

But we wouldn't be doing this remarkable story anywhere near justice without starting at the beginning. Along with Andrew, Sophia, a Racing Victoria Acknowledged Retrainer, owns and operates Bluebell Equestrian Park, a boutique breeding, spelling and performance farm in Victoria. She

"After his less than glamorous arrival in a stock crate, the overweight, unfit Thoroughbred failed to strike much of a chord."

originally took delivery of Hughie after friends, who had purchased him straight off the track, asked her to sell him on

Sophia and Hughie became the first

their behalf.

combination in the history of Wandin

After his less than glamorous arrival

dressage score at 4* level, and in 2023,

in a stock crate, the overweight, unfit Thoroughbred failed to strike much of a chord. But after working with Hughie for a week or so, Sophia began to think there was more to him. "I realised he might actually be quite good,” she says, "but I had no idea how good." To give

Park Horse Trials to finish on their Hughie was awarded Equestrian Victoria Eventing Horse of the Year and OTT Eventing Horse of the Year, thanks to a swag of CCI4*-S wins, and a very respectable third place in the Adelaide CCI5*-L, all while Sophia was pregnant.

them both the time to find out, she

By the end of 2023, and with that 5*

decided to buy him, with the intention of

podium finish in hand, Sophia’s goal was

reselling him after a few months.

to compete with Hughie overseas. So by

The European campaign proved pivotal.

Seattle Park contested 4* events before being sold to help fund the trip - a sad but necessary financial decision faced by many riders - while Sophia and Hughie announced themselves as a 5* force to be reckoned with.

Although the pair missed Paris selection, they were shortlisted as reserves for the Australian Olympic team, which Sophia remembers as "a really cool experience," before redirecting their attention towards their first Burghley Horse Trials. "That was amazing," she adds. "Hughie and I had a really good run there, but we had a pin on the cross country, which was quite costly." Nonetheless, they jumped clear LEFT: Sophia and Hughie, well on their way to 3rd place in the $100,000 Grand Prix Eventing Showcase at Aiken (Image by Laura Rietveld).

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 59

L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G

ABOVE: From stock crate to 5* tour de force at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event (Image by AK Dragoo Photography). on the final day to place 22nd in a highly

rather than dwelling on Adelaide, Sophia

And that decision proved to be exactly

competitive 66-strong field.

recalibrated and set her sights on the US

the right one. Hughie claimed third

Maryland 5*. But getting there proved

place in the US$100,000 Grand Prix

confident that they had a tried and

to be a challenge. Travel disruptions left

Eventing at Aiken, and to Sophia's

true 5* horse on their hands, the next

Hughie with an unplanned 12 days off in

delight, finished tenth at Kentucky. "We

obvious step was to focus on 5* events.

the lead up, and he let lose some of his

were thrilled to get a top-ten finish

pent-up energy in the dressage arena.

there, and he also gained his WEG

“He was quite naughty," Sophia laughs.

qualification. So our goal is the World

After arriving home with Hughie, now

The 2025 Adelaide CCI5*-L loomed as their next major target and Sophia

Championships in Aachen, Germany -

arrived believing victory was within

What followed, however, was extra-

reach. “My goal going into that event

ordinary. Hughie was the only horse

was definitely to win it,” she says, but

there to jump a double clear, earning

Not surprisingly, Sophia has clocked up

she was to be disappointed.

him sixth place in a world-class field.

some serious frequent flyer points this

“He really made a name for himself in

year with three return trips to the US so

on the podium, Sophia made an

America,” Sophia remarks. And that

far. "It’s been a lot of travel," she says,

uncharacteristic error in the final show

result changed everything.

"and I couldn’t have done it without the

jumping phase, riding past a fence and

With more big events, including

eliminating herself. “It was an awful

Kentucky, coming up on the US eventing

moment,” she says, "just the most stupid

calendar, the decision was made to

Comfortably positioned for a place

mistake at a critical time. To be sitting on such a good jumper and do that was really disappointing. But it happened.”

Although it was a bitter pill to swallow, 60 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

leave Hughie in America with Sophia's good friend and fellow eventer Monica

but that requires selection."

amazing team I’ve got at both ends.

Monica did the majority of the Kentucky preparation and I’m so lucky to have someone I completely trust to hand Hughie over to."

Spencer, who is currently campaigning a

Meanwhile, thousands of kilometres

top off the track Thoroughbred herself.

away, there's her Australian support

L I F E A F T E R R AC I N G

ABOVE: Jumping into 10th place in front of a packed Kentucky crowd (Image by AK Dragoo Photography). team, including groom Bianca Christian,

going for a holiday with Granny is pretty

and still became just as good. As long as

who Sophia tells us has done an

normal," she says. “We probably miss

they’re confident and happy, they tend

outstanding job keeping her horses in

him more than he misses us!"

to want to do the job for you,” she adds.

You might say that luck was on Sophia's

While Sophia has her fingers crossed

Nonetheless, that's a tough schedule.

side the day that Hughie arrived at

that Hughie will be selected for the

Competing internationally while

Bluebell Park, and to a great degree

World Championships in Aachen, she

managing a business and raising

that's true. But also at play is Sophia's

also has her eye on the 2028 Olympics

a young family was never going

approach to training her horses. “It’s

in Los Angeles. For an event horse,

to be easy, which Sophia readily

always about following a process

14-year-old Hughie is in his prime and

acknowledges. "It’s been a challenge,"

and ticking off everything before you

is shaping up as a serious contender.

she says. "It’s been exhausting at times,

step up,” she says. Making sure the

But, as the always philosophical Sophia

but we set this big goal and big plan, so

foundations are there and the horses

points out, time will tell.

we’ve stuck with it."

are confident is her top priority.

And time has already told quite a

They say it takes a village to compete

Careful not to oversimplify, or to

remarkable story.

at an elite level, and for Sophia,

prescribe a one-size-fits-all training

underpinning it all is family. The hardest

formula, Sophia's philosophy centres

part, she admits, is leaving Oliver -

on patience and process. Each horse

although perhaps not for Oliver, who

develops differently she says, and while

has happily stayed with Sophia's mum

Hughie rose through the grades quickly,

thinking about partnering with an off the

during some of the shorter overseas

the speed at which they progress is

track Thoroughbred, you can find details

trips, and according to Sophia, handles

irrelevant. “Each horse is unique, and

for all Racing Victoria's Acknowledged

the arrangement beautifully. "He thinks

plenty of amazing horses need longer

Retrainers on their website.

work while she's been in America.

Follow Sophia on Instagram, and visit Sophia Hill Equestrian to learn more about the exciting ownership share opportunities she is offering. And if you're

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 61

6 2 0 2 y a bar, M

o C o t Trip

2 x m k 1,044 62 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

COMMUNITY

Coast to Cobar From the Gold Coast to outback New South Wales, the HLS TRICK RIDING TEAM discovered that sometimes the best memories are made outside the arena - in small towns, country shows, and the moments that remind us why horses connect communities so deeply.

W

hen the HLS Trick Riding

Queensland into western NSW. “When

HLS Trick Riding has grown from

team accepted an invitation

I first got the email, I actually had to

Hollie teaching small groups of

to perform at Cobar

Google where Cobar was,” Hollie

students into one of Australia’s best-

Show in western New South Wales,

recalls. “I’d lived in New South Wales

known trick riding teams. Many of the

they expected a long drive, a few

for 20 years but still couldn’t place it!”

riders now performing in the shows

performances, and a fun weekend away.

For Sophie, one of the most memorable moments came before

What they didn’t expect was to arrive

they’d even performed. "One of

in town and discover they were

my favourite moments from Cobar

already local celebrities. “We pulled

would definitely have to be walking

into the servo to fuel up and there

around town with the girls and seeing

was a poster sitting on the counter

posters of us in nearly all the shop

with our photo on it,” laughs HLS Trick

windows and seeing how excited

Riding founder Hollie Shiels. “The girls walked down the street afterwards and every shop had posters up.”

Locals stopped them in the street to ask if they were “the trick riders.”

Kids followed them around the showgrounds excitedly. One little girl quietly shared that she was skipping

"Away from the arena, the weekend quickly turned into the ultimate horsegirl road trip."

and Saffron - the trip to Cobar became far more than just another trick show.

It became one of those unforgettable

Cobar was to have us as part of their show,” she says. “The performances were so much fun and the crowds were incredible. It was an amazing experience.”

‘horse-life’ weekends where

The HLS team performed three shows

community spirit matters just as much

across the weekend, bringing their

as the main arena entertainment.

signature blend of stunts, glitter and

The journey itself was no small undertaking. With horses on board, the trip stretched into a two-day drive each way - around 11 hours from

Hollie years ago. “That’s probably one of my favourite things,” Hollie says. “Watching the girls grow into professional performers and now even training some of their own horses to be part of the team.”

appeared at events including Sydney Royal, Adelaide Royal, Festival of Dressage at QSEC, Bleach Festival and Cowgirls Gathering.

But Cobar offered something different.

“It had that genuine country-show feeling,” Hollie says. “Everyone was welcoming, everyone was excited,

saving for a pony instead.

made up of riders Sophie, Lily, River

their very first trick riding lessons with

Over the years, the team has

the showbags because she was

For the Gold Coast-based team -

started as young students having

fast-paced entertainment to packed crowds. For many locals, it was their first time seeing trick riding in person.

Founded more than a decade ago,

and you could tell how much the community genuinely loved their show. The whole town got behind it.”

Away from the arena, the weekend quickly turned into the ultimate horsegirl road trip. “The drive there was one of my favourite parts,” Saffron says. “We had the music going and were singing along to all the songs. It was probably great karaoke practice before we somehow ended up winning the karaoke competition at the show!”

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 63

COMMUNITY

64 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

COMMUNITY

ABOVE: For HLS Trick Riding, the journey to Cobar became so much more than a road trip (Images by Pixels by Zee).

The girls bunked together in the back

to win. The moment Party In The

And perhaps that’s the magic of

of the truck, making the most of every

USA by Miley Cyrus appeared on the

country shows.

moment along the way. “We had one

teleprompter, the result almost felt

swag and a few camp mattresses

Long after the arenas are packed

inevitable.

down and the spotlights are switched

And while the road trip memories

off, what people remember most

were special, for Saffron, nothing

are the moments in between - the

between us; we all piled in!” Saffron laughs. “We all did our makeup together and listened to our favourite songs, and Sophie braided everyone’s

quite compared to the moments just

hair every day. It was just really fun

before stepping into the arena. “Right

being together.”

before we’re about to perform, the

The riders were determined to immerse themselves in the show beyond their performances too, entering the Young Farmers Challenge - where they proudly came fourth out

ponies start getting excited, the crowd

conversations at the servo, little kids dreaming about ponies, and feeling welcome in places far away from home.

starts gathering and we just hype each

For HLS Trick Riding, the journey

other up - then Hollie comes out to

to Cobar became so much more

introduce us and the music starts,” she says. “That feeling is the best.”

than a road trip. It was a reminder that horses have a way of bringing people together - whether it’s in a

of four teams. “It was going pretty well

Between the performances, karaoke

packed arena, a small town excited

until Saf tripped and took the whole

victories, failed farmer challenges,

to welcome “the trick riders” to their

team down,” Hollie jokes. “Lucky they

genuine country hospitality and

show, or a group of horse-crazy girls

ride better than they run!”

countless conversations with locals,

who simply love hanging upside-down

Fortunately, redemption came later

the weekend became less about

at full gallop.

that night in the form of karaoke -

putting on a show and more about

which the girls somehow managed

becoming part of one.

Visit HLS Trick Riding and Equestrian Services for more.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 65

EVENT

Home Hero In front of a packed home crowd at TSCHIO Aachen, Richard Vogel and United Touch S produced three faultless rounds to claim one of equestrian sport’s most prestigious titles on one of its most iconic stages. HELEN CRUDEN reports.

66 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

PONIES

ABOVE: The Australian Young Rider Team savouring their victory (All images courtesy Adelaide Equestrian Festival).

ABOVE: Vogel and United Touch S delivered a breathtaking performance to win the 2026 Rolex Grand Prix at TSCHIO Aachen (All images by Helen Cruden).

R

ichard Vogel arrived in Aachen

rarest achievements. By late afternoon

The atmosphere reflected the

carrying the pressure of

in Aachen, he had done exactly that.

significance of the occasion. Forty of

Under bright sunshine in the iconic

the world’s leading horse and rider

Hauptstadion arena, Vogel and the

combinations entered the arena for the

extraordinary United Touch S delivered

feature event of the week, including 21

expectation - and the possibility

of history. Already the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender following his victory at The Dutch

a breathtaking performance to win

of the world’s top 25 riders. Designed

Masters earlier this year, the German

the 2026 Rolex Grand Prix at TSCHIO

by legendary course builder Frank

rider entered Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix

Aachen - one of the most prestigious

Rothenberger, the Rolex Grand Prix

knowing another win would place him

and demanding classes in international

track proved every bit as imposing

one step closer to one of the sport’s

show jumping.

as expected, testing scope, stamina, E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 67

EVENT

precision and trust across two gruelling rounds and a potential jump-off.

The first round quickly underlined the quality of the field. World No.1 Kent Farrington was among the early clears aboard Greya, joined by reigning World Champion Henrik von Eckermann, defending champion Martin Fuchs, Laura Kraut, Sophie Hinners and Vogel himself.

By the conclusion of the opening round, only 11 combinations had jumped clear.

Returning in reverse order for round two, pressure mounted with every rail.

Ultimately, just three riders managed to remain fault-free across both rounds: Germany’s Sophie Hinners aboard Iron Dames Singclair, Argentina’s José María Larocca Jr. with Finn Lente, and Vogel riding the exceptional United Touch S. Much to the delight of the home crowd, Hinners produced a stylish clear jumpoff round in 51.62 seconds to set the standard.

Then came Vogel. Riding the enormous dark bay stallion with remarkable composure and precision, the German combination attacked the shortened track with intent. United Touch S - famous for his huge stride and explosive scope - covered the ground effortlessly, while Vogel balanced speed with control in a round that brought the packed stadium to its feet. Crossing the finish line more than six seconds faster than Hinners, Vogel suddenly looked untouchable.

Only Larocca remained. Although the Argentinian rider produced a superb clear round, he could not match Vogel’s pace, confirming the German victory in front of an ecstatic Aachen crowd. “It is a feeling that I simply cannot describe,” Vogel said afterwards. “Aachen is one of our favourite shows of the year, and to arrive here as the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender, with the chance to compete in the Rolex Grand Prix, was a huge privilege.”

The emotion was unmistakable. “It was very, very emotional,” Vogel said. “It’s not 68 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

EVENT

ABOVE: Aachen is widely regarded as the spiritual home of show jumping - a venue every rider dreams of conquering.

LEFT: Long time groom Fellicia Wallin shares a particularly close relationship with United Touch S. every day that I cry but this was a good

That team includes longtime groom

faultless rounds under immense

reason to have tears in my eyes. It has

Felicia Wallin, whose bond with United

pressure. “United Touch S was incredible

been a childhood dream to win the Rolex

Touch S has become well known within

across all three rounds and almost made

Grand Prix at Aachen.”

the sport.

my life easy today,” Vogel said. “He

For the 29-year-old German rider, the

While the stallion is celebrated for his

moment represented far more than

extraordinary athleticism in the arena,

another five-star victory. Aachen is widely

those closest to him often speak just as

regarded as the spiritual home of show

highly about his personality away from

jumping - a venue every rider dreams

competition. Sensitive, intelligent and

The victory means Vogel remains the

of conquering. “When you enter the

deeply affectionate with the people

Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live

arena as the live contender, you don’t

he trusts, United Touch S shares a

want to go for third or second place,”

particularly close relationship with Wallin,

Vogel admitted. “There was quite some pressure on United Touch S and me, but the crowd gave us wings and were really a part of making this happen.”

Vogel was also quick to acknowledge the team behind the victory. “We have

who has cared for the horse throughout

jumped outstandingly and fought so hard with me. The way he handled the double really showed how much he has improved over the past few years.”

contender heading into the next Major: the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament in Calgary this September.

much of his rise to the top level. It was a

Should he win there, he would become

connection impossible to miss in Aachen.

only the second rider in history - after

As Vogel celebrated one of the biggest victories of his career, Wallin remained

Britain’s Scott Brash - to complete the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping.

quietly beside the stallion through the

For now though, Aachen belongs

emotional post-round scenes - a reminder

entirely to Richard Vogel, United Touch

that behind every great championship

S, and the team behind them. “It really is

horse is often a small team built on trust,

a dream come true,” Vogel said. “We are

consistency and care.

lost for words.”

but they had United Touch S in fantastic

United Touch S himself was exceptional

condition. I cannot thank them enough.”

throughout the class, producing three

For more of Helen's stunning work, follow her on Instagram.

worked incredibly hard to produce a performance like this, and I have to say a huge thank you to my team at home,” he said. “I have been away a lot recently with other horses at different shows,

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 69

70 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

EVENT

LEFT & ABOVE: For Vogel, winning the Rolex Grand Prix at Aachen is a childhood dream come true.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 71

72 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

Vogel remains the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping live contender heading into the CSIO Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ Tournament in Calgary.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 73

74 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B OCTOBER 2 0 2 5

AO R ANNIE BOYD | A LIFE WITH HORSES

Forward Fixes Everything EH: Annie, can you tell us a little about yourself and how your journey with Quarter Horses first began?

girls learnt to ride on her.

We didn't show a lot, but we did go to Melbourne Royal as little kids and

hats, the chaps, the romal reins and all that fancy stuff. I still remember watching those people and thinking, I really want to do that one day.

AB: I was basically born into it. My

competed in turnout classes. I think

parents were both horsey people. They

there's a photo somewhere in the

When I was 17, Mum and Dad had a

met at Melbourne Royal Show. My dad

Western Horseman of my sister and I

really pretty mare called Circle J Poco

was a novelty rider and harness rider,

winning the fancy dress at Melbourne

Melia (Millie) who Dad had trained

and my mum was a three day eventer

Royal with Puff. Back in those days, it

as a cutting horse. I really wanted to

and show jumper.

was a huge event.

do performance events, so I started

They got married in 1969 and, not long

Dad was a cutting horse trainer back

after that, Quarter Horses came into this

then, so we always rode the big horses.

country. They got right into it. Dad was a

Believe it or not, we never had kids'

novelty rider and competed in harness

saddles, so we always rode with no

events.

Mum was a barrel racer and a cutter.

She won High Point Ladies Cutter of Australia back when they had ladies' cutting classes, which they don’t any more because the ladies are just as competitive as the men.

My sister and I didn't actually grow up

showing her in the youth classes. I'd compete in the youth performance events, and then in between my classes she'd have to go back and be a cutting horse.

In those days, the horses had to be

"All these beautiful horses, the silver and white hats, the chaps, the romal reins ... I still remember watching those people and thinking, I really want to do that one day."

all-rounders, they had to do a bit of everything. That all-round deal is just what I was brought up with, and to me, there's no such thing as a horse that only does one class. I'm very lucky because the two mares I'm showing now are both Millie’s granddaughters.

EH: You compete on home-bred

showing Quarter Horses. Mum and Dad did the cutting and all that sort of

horses. What does that add to the

stuff, but we showed ponies. We had

stirrups. But you can't show with no

a little Shetland pony called Puff. She

stirrups, so we weren't allowed to show

was given to me when Puff and I were

until we could actually reach the stirrups.

AB: Oh look, it's huge. I've never

both two years old – but it was on the

When I was about 15 or 16, I started

condition that if we ever didn't want

I've never got to choose what I ride - I

spending school holidays at

her, we had to give her back. So, she

just have to ride what the stork brings,

Winderadeen. The cutting horse trainers

basically. You choose the stallions you

was never one of those ponies that

were all friends, and the cutting and

breed your mares to, so you have input

gets passed from family to family. She

performance events were all at the same

into what you're going to get, but it's still

stayed with us her whole life. She was

shows. We'd go with the cutters, but

a lottery at the end of the day.

my sister's and my pony, and then she

you also got to watch all the Western

retired in the paddock. She lived until

Pleasure and Trail classes. All these

she was 38 years old, and both of my

beautiful horses, the silver and white

experience for you personally?

gone out and chosen a horse to buy.

LEFT: Annie and her horse Annlee Been Waitin On Me. E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 75

AO R

ABOVE: Annie breeds all her own performance horses.

Over the years I've had some amazing

I don't have any urge to use frozen

the time I'll go out and ride during the

horses to ride, but some, if you were

semen from overseas bloodlines. We

day and then work at night, just because

looking for a horse to buy, you probably

have all the bloodlines here in Australia,

the weather's good and all that sort of

wouldn't choose them. As babies, they

and I think for the benefit of our industry,

stuff.

were hard work.

and if we want people to continue to

Between my work, grandkids and elderly

Even the mare I'm riding now was hard work as a two and three-year-old. If I

put the effort and expense into bringing stallions here, we have to use them. If I

parents, there's a lot on. I like to ride in blocks of three days. Your first day is

really like one of the American stallions,

consolidating everything you already

I'll find a son of theirs here to breed to,

know and if everything goes well, you

because it's important that we support

can add something new. The next day,

the stallion owners.

you concentrate on the new thing, and

do it. Eventually, every horse, if you take

I don’t just look at the bloodlines. When

on the third day you've consolidated the

the time, will get to be better. Sometimes

you choose to breed to somebody's

the most unlikely horses end up as

horse, you're investing in them. When

I don't ride every day, but every day I

fabulous horses because somebody

I ride a horse by somebody's stallion, I

ride, I make sure I've got at least an hour

took the time with them.

promote that stallion, so you want to like

per horse. I may not need it, but I have

EH: What do you look for when you're

the horse and like the people.

to have it in case I do need to go for

breeding a future performance horse?

EH: What does a typical week of

longer. You have to get it right. I don't

How do you decide which stallion to

training look like for you and your

breed your mares to?

horses?

AB: I like to breed to real horses. I will

AB: You know, I do not ride as much

AI my horses, but I like the stallion to be

as people think I do. Because I work for

learn a bad habit as quick as a good

here in Australia.

myself and I work from the farm, a lot of

one. If you've got a problem today, fix

had listened to some of the very helpful advice people gave me, I probably wouldn't have kept going with her. But she's my horse. No one else is going to

76 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

new thing.

think "I'll fix that tomorrow." Because the different horses I've had over the years - though some of them have not been easy - they're all very smart, and they'll

AO R

ABOVE: With best friend Pauline Stuart-Fox (Image by Ev Lagoon Photography). it today, because tomorrow it'll be the

It’s useless being a superstar for one

does that give you as a rider?

same problem plus ten per cent.

side of the pen and then training on

AB: You know, it's interesting. When I

If every ride counts, you don't have to ride every day.

EH: Western performance requires precision, softness and excellent

your horse for the other half. Being consistently average, nine times out of ten, pays off!

EH: What's been one of your proudest

was younger, I always thought that if I had enough money, I'd love to be one of those people who had their horse with a professional trainer and just got on and

moments in the show pen so far?

rode.

AB: Probably when I was selected to

I guess the wisdom of age is that I'm

compete in the Ranch Riding Challenge

now grateful that I had to do it the hard

they had at Equitana. It was way out of

way because now I'm very confident

my comfort zone. We had a very small

to ride my own horse. I actually think,

space on grass inside the venue, and

in some ways, the people that do it

It's so important. It doesn't matter how

my horse was really good. She really

themselves have an advantage.

good your position is, or how good your

stepped up to the mark and handled it.

horse is - if your pattern is not correct,

We did a clinic and demonstration the

nothing else matters.

next day - Sarah (Agnew) and I rode our

Because I ride a lot of young horses,

horses down in amongst all the people

and because I started as a cutting horse

and the prams. For them to handle their

presentation. What do you enjoy most about the challenge?

AB: Patterns. I really enjoy the challenge of getting the pattern exactly right.

rider, my position is probably my biggest downfall. People laugh at me when I say this, but it is 100 per cent true: I have

emotions on such a big stage was really special. Patience was such a good girl.

She exceeded my expectations.

You can never create the same relationship when your horse lives with the trainer that you can when your horse lives at home. If you're the horse's number one rider, you're the horse's number one influence. Whether it be good or bad, you're the one who tells your horse what to do. And if you're

won an awful lot over the years just by

EH: You've produced and shown many

telling him the wrong thing, then you

being consistently average.

of your own horses. What advantages

need to fix it. If you rely on the trainer to E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 77

AO R

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AO R

fix it, he'll do it right for the trainer, but he'll still do the wrong thing for you.

People need help. We all need eyes on the ground. Sometimes what feels good doesn't look good, and vice versa. But if you can get help when needed, while still being the horse's main person, you'll always have an advantage because your horse has gelled with you.

In my pattern classes, I feel like I have an advantage over the person who has their horse with the trainer. Sometimes they win, and good for them. If the same people won every time, nobody else would go to the horse show and that would be boring.

EH: What do you love most about the social and community side of the sport?

AB: My family was brought up in the industry. My kids were brought up in the industry. The sport is my life, really. My business has now become part of it too.

I do have a circle of friends that I hang out with at the horse shows. I guess the shows have become sort of divided into show teams these days. You've got trainers who have their clients, and they

ABOVE: Annie and her granddaughter (Image courtesy Annie Boyd). LEFT: For Annie, her sport is her life (Image by Ev Lagoon Photography).

all hang out at the stables together and

much time worrying about what other

be prouder of her. It's nice for my best

create their own community at a show.

people are doing. Find the events you

friend Pauline Stuart-Fox too, because

But there are also quite a lot of non-pros

enjoy, find people you enjoy learning

she's by HS Something Hot and Pauline

and amateurs who do the same thing in

from, and go and have fun with your

was the one who originally convinced

a non-official kind of way. We often camp

horse.

together and are happy to help each

EH: Looking ahead, what are your

Pleasure stallion instead of a cutting

goals or the things you're most excited

horse. Back then, that was quite a big

about for the future with your horses?

shift in thinking.

AB: I think, down the track, breeding

Over the years, plenty of people have

other out. Those friendships become a pretty important part of horse show life.

EH: What advice would you give someone wanting to get involved in AQHA or Western performance showing?

AB: Go to the horse shows. Watch the classes, decide what interests you and what sort of rider you want to be.

Especially when you're looking for help

those two mares and going for the fourth generation. Millie was the first, then came her daughters, and now the two mares I'm riding are daughters of those mares. That's probably what excites me most.

or trying to choose a trainer, go and

Patience was the last foal that mare had.

watch what they do away from the show

She had a filly first and then she gave

pen. Not every event or every training

me gelding after gelding after gelding,

style is going to suit every person.

and finally I got this one.

I think people sometimes spend too

She's an absolute cracker. I could not

my dad to breed Millie to a Western

said those horses are too hot, and the mares are hot. I guess when Patience was little, she probably would have been described that way. But she's grown into such a good girl. One of my favourite quotes is from Dawn Holliday: 'Forward fixes everything'. I think that's probably a pretty good philosophy for horses and life.

You can follow Annie Boyd on Facebook.

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term memory, post-conflict consolation, and intervention in third-party social interactions.

Studies have looked at our ability to interpret horses’ vocalisations (Table 1), and more recently research has focussed on how good we are at interpreting their emotions (affective states) through their body language.

Affective states are underlying, longlasting emotional experiences (moods) or short-term feelings (emotions) that include psychological and physiological processes. They are categorised as positive or negative, and high or low arousal. They represent an accumulation of experiences, and in all species, influence decision-making, cognitive performance and behaviour.

Micro-expressions Micro-expressions are fleeting facial expressions resulting from the shortlasting contraction of facial muscles.

These expressions can rarely be intentionally produced or repressed and hence they reflect internal state more reliably than general behaviour. Lack of

F E AT U R E

understanding of facial signs of pain or

Look Who's Talking

stress can lead to misinterpretation of some behaviours as ‘naughty’.

A recently designed Facial Action Coding System specific for horses (EquiFACS) lists all the facial movements

Horses use vocalisation and body language to communicate, giving us the opportunity to understand them at a deeper level. DR JENNIFER STEWART explains.

J

can also represent our internal states,

through both vocalisation and

and accurate recognition of these

body language. Understanding

expressions facilitates our interactions

and social relationships between horses,

recognise stressful situations as well as provide valuable insights into horses’ emotional experiences.

Using the EquiFACS system, affective

ust like us, horses communicate

this helps us to identify health issues

horses produce and can be used to

and bonding.

states can be identified in terms of positive/negative and high/low arousal.

An important feature for separating positive and negative situations is the change in the angle between the

Facial expressions in horses, dogs

highest wrinkle and the line through the

and cats have a surprising degree of

eyeball.

In humans, faces are a rich source

similarity with humans. Horses have

of potentially valuable information -

Reading their ears

other behaviours in common with us

Ears are another feature important for

whether given purposefully or not.

that rely on accurately interpretating

recognition of fear, vigilance and pain

With an important role in regulating

facial expressions, including social

(Figure 1). Ears pointing backwards

social interactions, facial expressions

skills, recognising individuals, long-

are associated with negative states,

as well as assess their emotional state.

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F E AT U R E

including pain, agonistic social interactions (behaviour that includes

Table 1: Vocalisations

aggression, defense and avoidance) and

Blow

While exploring something or to alert the presence of intruders

chronically restricted conditions. Free-

Groan

Pain, discomfort, strenuous effort, or pleasure during rolling

living and feral horses are almost never

Grunt

Pain, discomfort or confrontation

Neigh

Can be calling for others or a greeting

Nicker

Can be a greeting, call to a foal, or courtship

been developed to recognise four

Scream

Conflict or fear

emotional states in horses (positive and

Sigh

Can be relief, boredom, or frustration

negative anticipation, disappointment

Snore

Sleeping

Snort

Alarm, playful, or frustration

reward, and the two negative situations

Squeal

Conflict, protest, or surprise

are frustration at waiting for a reward,

Whinny

Greeting

observed with such ear positions.

Emotional States Artificial intelligence (AI) models have

and frustration). The positives are availability of food and anticipation of a

and disappointment at the loss of the reward. Eye white increase, ear rotator, biting feeder, and repetitive movements were more likely in the frustration phase, while blink, nostril lift, tongue show, chewing and licking feeder were more likely in the disappointment phase.

Training programs to help owners develop the ability to recognise the emotional states have been shown to be more effective (76% accuracy) when compared to machine learning program (61% accuracy).

In general horses approach negative stimuli, fear and aggression using the left eye, and positive (friends or food) using the right. The tendency to handle horses predominantly from the left side undoubtedly increases the attention paid to stimuli on this side and would contribute to this finding.

Can Humans Read Horses?

Horses possess a rich repertoire of facial movements that enables them to communicate effectively. However, we are better able to recognise horses’ affective states based on their body language rather than by isolated facial expressions, meaning signs of distress are often overlooked.

People with experience of horses are better able to recognise affective states than inexperienced observers,

Figure 1: Ear positions indicate emotional state (© Chestnuut). also found that people with experience

states and the links between behaviour,

with horses were better able to

stress and pain. It explains beautifully

recognise negative emotional states

the hierarchy of behavioural indicators

than positive states and a 30-minute

associated with increasing stress,

training session on the Horse Grimace

progressing from subtle indicators such

Scale improved pain recognition, even in

as eye wrinkling, eyelid twitches and

people with little to no horse experience.

blink rate, to more overt signals, such as bucking, head-tossing or rearing.

but studies have found their accuracy

The Equine Behaviour and Training

remains relatively low and can be

Association (EBTA) is a great resource

Another valuable contribution to

improved with training. These studies

for education on reading affective

our understanding is Improving the E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 81

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82 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

FORMULATED BY DR JENNIFER STEWART BVSC, BSC, PHD, EQUINE VETERINARIAN & CONSULTANT NUTRITIONIST MADE IN AUSTRALIA IN APVMA-LICENSED AND ISO-COMPLIANT FACILITIES

F E AT U R E

Recognition of Equine Affective States - a research paper exploring how well members of the equestrian community were able to recognise signs of negative affective state.

Can Horses Read Us? Over nearly 60 million years of evolution and 6,000 years of domestication, horses have developed sophisticated systems that enable them to read and respond to subtle cues in their environment, including those emitted by humans. When confronted with negative voices, horses more often adopt a freeze posture with ears forwards for longer and fewer ear movements; when hearing laughter they used the right ear – indicating a positive state.

Horses can and do perceive and react to human emotional states and can differentiate between human facial expressions, actively integrating human signals leading to changes in their own emotional states. Under certain conditions, they mirror changes in heart rate and cortisol (the stress hormone)

ABOVE: Ears are loosely tilted to the side indicating a state of relaxation.

and stress and anxiety in riders and

the horse. Because horses have been

signs that cannot be hidden by the

domesticated and can be readily trained

horse.

handlers can influence the horse’s performance and learning outcomes exacerbating stress-related behaviours or reducing responsiveness to cues.

However, they are usually responding to human body language cues and by adopting controlled, neutral body language, handlers and riders can create a more stable environment. Horses are highly responsive to visual and postural cues in other horses and in humans, and body tension, abruptness and movement patterns can be stressful or calming for horses. Experienced handlers can effectively regulate their body language, even under stress, thereby acting as a buffer against emotional contagion.

Horses have the ability to generate

and habituated to withstand aversive stimuli, behaviour alone may not be an appropriate measure of mental state.

As always, nutrition and diet profoundly impact behaviour. Magnesium deficiencies and feeds for more than

As a survival strategy, the transfer

12% starch and sugar adversely affect

of positive emotion within a group

the gut. Gut health has a profound effect

contributes to group stability and reduces

on neurotransmitter levels (especially

unnecessary energy expenditure and

serotonin, the ‘happy’ hormone) and

risk of injury. For a prey species such as

oil-enriched, low starch/sugar feeds

the horse, the rapid transfer of fear and

have consistently been shown to have

the resultant group avoidance behaviour

a protective effect on both gut and

(flight response) is also important for

behaviour, calmness, stress levels and

survival. However, in terms of survival

the affective state.

(in prey species in particular) there are

Dr Jennifer Stewart BVSc BSc PhD is an equine veterinarian, a member of the Australian Veterinary Association and Equine Veterinarians Australia, CEO of Jenquine and a consultant nutritionist in

advantages in hiding emotions that are suggestive of vulnerability (to predation or social rejection).

a wide range of facial expressions

This potential lack of expression poses

- less than humans but more than

an additional challenge in recognising

those of chimpanzees or dogs. These

signs of emotion in the horse because

transient fleeting unvoluntary facial

for millennia, equine survival has been

displays (micro-expressions), provide

enhanced by masking underlying

information on the true internal state of

emotion. The challenge is to identify

Equine Clinical Nutrition.

All content provided in this article is for general use and information only and does not constitute advice or a veterinary opinion.

It is not intended as specific medical advice or opinion and should not be relied on in place of consultation with your equine veterinarian.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 83

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The Great British Pilgrimage The world’s most prestigious equestrian event is far more than a competition; it is a pilgrimage. Words and images by KIRSTY PASTO.

P

ack your Hunter wellies, dust off

asks horse and rider to master three

shake-up following its post-war lull.

the tweed and enter the world

phases over four days: dressage, cross

In 1949, he opened the doors of his

of Badminton Horse Trials where

country and show jumping. However,

Gloucestershire estate and invited the

five-star eventing meets British sporting

to reduce Badminton to its competitive

world to compete within its grounds.

tradition in one unforgettable week.

credentials alone is like describing

Hallowed Ground

Westminster Abbey as a place to sit

There is a particular kind of silence that falls over Badminton Estate on the morning of cross country day. It settles just before the first horse breaks

down during a visit to London. The event is something altogether larger and more spectacular than its 5* status could ever convey.

The timing was deliberate. The British team was preparing for the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, and Badminton was conceived partly as a training run, giving combinations the competitive mileage they needed before the

from the start box. The anticipation is

Many people grow up dreaming of

Games. It was an idea that would prove

palpable, as nearly 80,000 spectators

Badminton grandeur, whether in the

powerful well beyond Britain. In 1960,

collectively hold their breath, fully

hope of one day competing there

following the British example, a group of Australian horsemen arrived after five

aware that what they are about to witness is unlike anything else in sport.

The ground is prepared to perfection, and the estate looms large over the excited crowds, who all scatter to various points around the 52,000-acre site to secure a prime cross country position.

The air smells fresh with the kind of

"The anticipation is palpable, as nearly 80,000 spectators collectively hold their breath ... what they are about to witness is unlike anything else in sport."

weeks at sea, their horses exercised on deck during the long voyage, and used Badminton as part of their build-up to the Rome Olympics.

Among them was the legendary Bill Roycroft, who won Badminton that year on the 15hh polo pony Our Solo.

The Australians would go on to win team gold in Rome, giving the Duke’s

sweetness only the English countryside

original vision an emphatic international

can conjure, and the grass is damp

themselves or simply making the

with morning dew even if the sun has

journey to the historic event that has

made an uncharacteristic appearance.

long filled the pages of Horse & Hound,

Inevitably, someone nearby always

appeared on BBC screens and lived in

seems to have a Thermos of something

the imaginations of pony-mad children

warm to hand. As the first horse leaps

for generations. And somehow, when

iconic.

from the start box, the commentary

you finally arrive, the reality exceeds

By the 1960s and 1970s, Badminton

tannoy crackles to life, and the roar of

every expectation.

had become the defining fixture of

the crowd signals the start of one of the

A Duke and a Dream

the British equestrian calendar. A

greatest tests in equestrian sport.

The story begins, as so many English

Badminton Horse Trials has been doing

stories do, with a grand house and a

this to people since 1949. It is, in the

gentleman. The 10th Duke of Beaufort,

most literal sense, one of the most

Henry Somerset, was an old-school

challenging equestrian events on earth.

horseman, Master of Foxhounds

A CCI5*-L, the highest classification

for 47 years, and a firm believer

awarded by the FEI for eventing, it

that British equestrianism needed a

endorsement. What the Duke perhaps did not fully anticipate was the event’s capacity to transcend its origins and become something altogether more

proving ground where reputations were cemented, legends were made, and the sport ascended to an entirely new level.

ABOVE: Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo celebrating during their lap of honour. PREVIOUS PAGE: Harry Meade and Annaghmore Valoner on cross county. They finished third overall.

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ABOVE: The Mars Badminton Horse Trials scoreboard retains its old-school charm, with results still displayed on the large blackboard and written up by hand.

The fences grew more technical, the

run with the precision of a modern

Badminton between 1971 and 1979, as

competitors more international and the

international 5*, yet it has never quite

well as victory at the 1971 European

crowds larger. Through it all, the house

lost the feel of an event rooted in

Championships.

watched on with its elegant Georgian

countryside culture and a genuine love

façade, unchanged, as history was

of the horse.

made within its grounds.

That sense of genuine involvement, rather than distant endorsement, is

Royal Colours and Country Tweeds

part of what makes the royal thread

The Beaufort family’s stewardship has

Badminton is also, unavoidably, one

at Badminton feel so natural. Princess

been the event’s constant through

of the must-attend occasions of the

Anne competed at the highest

every era, with the estate’s hunting

British social season, though its royal

level, Zara Tindall has carried the

heritage also remaining part of its

connections have always run deeper

family connection into the modern

identity. The Duke of Beaufort’s Hunt

than pomp and ceremony. The late

eventing era and, in 2026, Queen

is still based at Badminton, and its

Queen Elizabeth II was a familiar

Camilla continued the legacy of royal

presence is woven into the fabric of the

presence for decades, often seen out

attendance with a visit that spoke not

event. Each year, the hounds appear in the main arena before the prize giving ceremony, a reminder that before the horse trials became a global sporting spectacle, the venue was, and remains to this day, a working country estate and an important part of the local community.

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on course, scarf on head, watching the

only to the event’s history but to its

action with the kind of delighted smile

future.

she seemed to reserve for the animals

A lifelong rider herself and Patron of the

in her life. Her knowledge of horses

British Equestrian Federation, Queen

was lifelong and instinctive, and her

Camilla attended the 2026 event in

own breeding legacy is written into

her role as Patron of the Ebony Horse

Badminton history through Doublet,

Club. The Brixton-based charity, of

the horse she bred and whom HRH

which she has been President since

Princess Anne rode to five placings at

2009, works with disadvantaged

EVENT

ABOVE: Queen Camilla is Patron of both the British Equestrian Federation and the Ebony Horse Club, and this year attended Badminton to present prizes to the Club's riders. young people, supporting their

The trade stands alone are a

after giving birth to her daughter

wellbeing and confidence through

destination, a glorious maze of more

Seneh in late January, Ros returned

contact with horses, riding lessons and

than 500 saddlers, tailors, jewellers,

to the grandest stage in eventing

stable management. At Badminton,

artists, country clothing brands, food

and made history with the 14-year-old

she met young riders, staff and

producers and enough tweed, boots

gelding Lordships Graffalo, known

volunteers from the club, bringing a

and Barbour jackets to outfit a small

affectionately as Walter, becoming the

quietly contemporary note to an event

county. There are dogs everywhere,

first combination in Badminton’s 77-year

so steeped in history. It was a reminder

children in miniature wellies,

history to win the event three times.

that while Badminton Horse Trials may

farming families who have come for

have been shaped by aristocracy, the

generations, first-timers overwhelmed

horse world at its best still has the

by the scale, and serious eventers

power to open doors far beyond the

discussing strides and lines over coffee.

park gates.

Even the scoreboard retains its old-

That sense of tradition is not confined to the main arena. On cross country day, it spills out across the estate itself, where the grounds are patrolled by

school charm, with results still displayed on a large blackboard and written up by hand. Badminton is part sport, part country fair and entirely its own world.

It was extraordinary enough on paper.

In reality, it was something else entirely.

Across a week that attracted close to 200,000 spectators, Ros was not only managing one of the most demanding 5* competitions in the world, but doing so while expressing milk, caring for a newborn and navigating the physical and emotional realities of

stewards on horseback, many of them

The Mother of All Victories

early motherhood. By the time she

members of the Beaufort Hunt, offering

If Badminton has always been a place

gave her winning interviews, she was

visitors the wonderful experience of

where legends are made, then 2026

rocking baby Seneh in her arms, with

getting up close to horses throughout

belonged to Ros Canter in a way that

her six-year-old daughter Ziggy clinging

the day.

felt almost beyond sport. Just 15 weeks

to her leg, still dressed in her riding E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 87

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attire having only just dismounted after securing the richest prize in eventing.

The achievement was made even more remarkable by what had come before. The previous year, Ros had won Burghley CCI5*-L, also with Lordships Graffalo, while five months pregnant, proving again that this partnership operates in a league of its own. At Badminton, the pair seemed to move with the same quiet inevitability from the very first horse inspection. Their cross country round was a masterclass; clear, effortless and 13 seconds inside the time, making them one of only four combinations from the 59 who tackled the course to finish without adding a single penalty to their score. By Sunday, Ros entered the show jumping arena with a commanding 10.2-penalty lead to secure £125,000 (approximately $233,800) in prize money with only two time penalties, finishing on a final score of 25.7.

For Australian readers, there was something poetic about the timing of this year’s Badminton. Ros was crowned champion on Mother’s Day, a fitting day for a rider who has written her name into the history books, all while balancing the demands of a tiny baby and a rambunctious six-year-old.

At Badminton, where history is never handed over lightly, Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo did not just win.

They redefined what winning could look like for a generation of women who may have heard one too many times that motherhood and ambition cannot sit in the same saddle.

Based in Nice, France, you can enjoy more of Kirsty's work at Kirsty Pasto Media, or follow her on Instagram.

LEFT: Lordships Graffalo with (L-R) groom Sarah Charnley and owner Michele Saul. RIGHT: Gemma Stevens and Chilli Knight at the Beaufort Owl Hole 90 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

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ABOVE: Arne Bergendahl and Luthien NRW at the Holland Cooper Vicarage Vee. BELOW: Aistis Vitkauskas and Commander VG at the British Eventing Broken Bridge. LEFT: New Zealand's Tim Price and Falco took 2nd place with a superb clear round, one of only two combinations to complete the show jumping phase with no penalties.

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Ros Canter and Lordships Graffalo scored 23.7 in the dressage phase.

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NOURISH TA K I N G T H E T I M E | SA M C AVA L LO R E F L E C T S

Why We Need Quiet Time With Horses

H

orses give us so much. Their trust. Their patience. Their willingness to meet us exactly

where we are on any given day. Whether we've had the best day of our lives or one we'd rather forget, they greet us with the same quiet consistency. They don't care how many emails are waiting in our inbox, whether we hit our goal weight this week or whether life is unfolding according to plan.

There seems to be a lot of pressure these days to always be doing something. To be ‘busy’. Progressing. Achieving.

The horse world is no different. Social media is filled with competition results, training videos, clinic highlights and carefully curated snapshots of success.

It's easy to feel as though everyone else is constantly moving forward while we're somehow falling behind.

Not the competing. In fact, some of my

buckles by memory. Knowing exactly

favourite parts of horse ownership are

the right place to scratch. A soft muzzle

the simple, daily tasks involved in caring

gently checking your pockets for treats.

for them.

It's noticing a small scrape before it

There is something deeply satisfying about the daily rituals that come with horse ownership. The sound of pellets filling a feed bin, unwrapping a new round bale, a freshly scrubbed water

becomes a problem and having just the right cream or spray to apply.

You can't automate care. You can't outsource the relationship. You can't build trust remotely. It requires presence.

trough, changing rugs when the weather

And perhaps that's why those everyday

turns cold and making sure everyone

tasks feel so meaningful. They're never

is happy and safe before the sun goes

really about the feed, the rug or the hay

down.

(for us anyway!). It's how the relationship

"And perhaps that's why those everyday tasks feel so meaningful. They're never really about the feed, the rug or the hay."

with our horses is built; through those little repetitive acts of care.

Every evening, the same little ritual unfolds at our place. Our Shetland is highly food-motivated and knows exactly when it’s dinner time. She gets fed first, not because she's the boss (although she certainly makes up for what she lacks in height, in attitude), but because it keeps

Many of us start each year with goals. We map out competition calendars, training

Of course, I enjoy it a little less when it's

her occupied and out of everybody else's

plans and things we'd like to achieve.

pouring rain, the wind is howling and I've

business.

There is nothing wrong with ambition.

arrived home late knowing I still have to

Meanwhile, our lead mare will quietly

Goals give us direction, purpose and

"do the horses" before I can sit down with

wait her turn. She doesn't get fed first

something to work towards.

a glass of wine. Most horse owners will

because she's the boss. In fact, she gets

know that feeling all too well. Yet even

fed last. She stands patiently while the

then, there is still something fulfilling

others are fed because she knows she

about it.

isn't competing for her feed. It's such a

But somewhere amongst the lessons, shows and endless to-do lists, I think it's important to remember that some of the most meaningful moments with

Caring for horses is tactile, instinctive

our horses are when absolutely nothing

and deeply sensory in a way that much

"insta-worthy" happens at all.

of modern life is not. In a world where

For most of us, it wasn't ribbons that

meetings happen online, groceries arrive

made us fall in love with horses. It wasn't

at our door and so much of life can be

results (as much as I do love a rosette).

automated or outsourced, horses remain

And it certainly wasn't because we

wonderfully unchanged.

wanted another item on our to-do list.

It was the horse itself. Not the riding.

simple interaction, but I never seem to tire of watching their dynamics.

The same horses. The same routine. The same quiet confidence that everything will happen in the order it always does.

These moments are rarely exciting. In fact, we've spent a lot of time making sure they aren't. But not every interaction

The feel of a thick winter coat beneath

with our horses needs to be goal

your fingertips. Doing rug clips and

oriented.

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YO U N G R I D E R

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NOURISH

It’s so nice to just give them a groom with a good old curry comb. Or, if they're as spoiled as ours, a daily Equissage session. I usually take them each a carrot (I never have any trouble catching them!)

We believe horses deserve freedom, forage and friends – they all live out in the paddock 24/7 as a funny little herd made complete by a random sheep who moved in a few years ago and now considers herself a horse. They have the option of a stable in inclement weather and access to unlimited hay.

These are some of the ways we try to give something back for all they give us.

Things that matter to them physically,

that is why they feel so rewarding.

Yet these seemingly ordinary moments form the foundation of every relationship we have with our horses. It’s easy to celebrate the visible moments. The

on routine and, in many ways, they keep us accountable too. The older I get, the more I appreciate these parts of my day.

And perhaps that is their biggest gift to me.

scoresheet. The garland. The champion

The quiet moment at the stables before

sash. But the truth is, the trophy may

work, or a walk through the paddock

be presented in front of a crowd, but it

after a day that hasn't quite gone to plan.

is earned in the hours when nobody is

They’re what remind us why we started

watching.

this journey in the first place.

This is the intimacy of horse ownership,

For the horses themselves. For the

not on display for approval or judgment.

connection. For the privilege of caring for

Not for external validation. We must

another living creature. For many of us,

uphold our own standards of care and

that is a source of immense pride.

our horses honestly reflect that back to

They move through their days like

mentally and emotionally. My horses give

us.

me companionship, purpose, joy and

And for those who never compete, the

even on the days when the rest of our

trust. In return, I try to give them a life that

reward is no less meaningful. Not every

carefully laid plans have gone completely

meets their needs.

horse owner dreams of a podium finish

sideways. Life happens, but the horses

or a high-point title. For many, the reward

continue quietly about the business of

is something far simpler and perhaps

being horses.

For so much of our relationship with horses, we are asking something of them.

We ask them to carry us. We ask them to trust our decisions. We ask them to try,

even more valuable. Trust. Connection.

Companionship.

the tide, with a comforting regularity

Perhaps that is why these quiet moments matter so much. Because they aren't

even when they don't fully understand

The bond between horse and human

separate from horse ownership. They are

what we're asking.

is built the same way regardless of

horse ownership. And maybe that is what

discipline or ambition. It is built through

truly nourishes us more than any trophy

consistency. Through routine. Through

or title ever could.

The quiet moments are different. We are simply enjoying their presence and, hopefully, the feeling is mutual. In those moments, we aren't asking for anything.

We are simply caring for them. Perhaps

hundreds of small interactions repeated over weeks, months and years.

Horses are creatures of habit. They thrive

Nourish is brought to you by Sugar Beach Ranch, the perfect destination for your next retreat.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 99

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RIDE FIT

Built for the saddle: Why Riders Are Training Like Athletes Now Today’s riders are embracing a new approach to fitness - one built on strength, mobility, resilience, and longevity, writes ANNE-MARIE LASSERRE.

T

here was a time when rider fitness

aesthetic muscles. They are fundamental

achieve far greater harmony with their

was considered secondary -

stabilisers. Weak glutes often contribute

horses than those relying on tension and

something beneficial perhaps,

to gripping through the thighs, instability

rigidity.

but never essential. In disciplines

in sitting trot, lower back tension,

such as dressage, working equitation

and loss of pelvic control. A strong,

and western pleasure, elegance and

functioning posterior chain allows the

feel were prioritised above physical

rider to sit deeper, move more fluidly with

conditioning, as though horsemanship

the horse, and maintain independence in

alone could compensate for fatigue, instability, weakness, and asymmetry.

That philosophy is quietly disappearing.

A new generation of riders is stepping into the gym with the same intention they bring to the arena. Today’s equestrienne is no longer striving simply to look the part. She is training to perform, to endure, and to ride with precision under pressure. Strength has become part of the aesthetic.

Modern equestrian sport demands far

the aids without bracing.

Mobility has also become the new status symbol within elite equestrian fitness.

Not performative stretching for social media, but genuine movement quality.

The ability to open the hips, rotate through the thoracic spine, maintain

The strongest riders rarely appear rigid.

supple ankles, and move symmetrically

They appear effortless.

has become increasingly recognised as a performance advantage. Riders are

"A blocked hip can create crookedness.

A tight ribcage can affect rein contact. A fatigued lower back can disrupt timing."

more from the rider’s body than many

beginning to understand that restriction in the human body almost always transfers directly to the horse.

A blocked hip can create crookedness.

A tight ribcage can affect rein contact. A fatigued lower back can disrupt timing.

Horses feel everything.

This is perhaps why strength training has become so compelling within modern

outside the sport realise. To maintain posture, stability, softness, timing, and

That effortlessness is built through

equestrian culture. Not because riders

influence while sitting a powerful moving

strength. Core training has undergone

are attempting to look like athletes - but

horse requires exceptional physical

a similar transformation. The era of

because they are athletes.

awareness. Riders are now recognising

endless crunches and visible abdominal

They are managing high training loads,

that true elegance in the saddle is often

definition as the marker of fitness is

nervous system stress, precision skill

built long before the horse is tacked up.

fading within performance circles. Riders

work, emotional regulation, travel,

are now prioritising what many fitness

competition pressure, and physically

professionals refer to as the ‘deep

demanding hours in the saddle. The

core’ - the internal stabilising system

polished exterior of equestrian sport

Instead, the focus has shifted towards

responsible for breath, posture, pelvic

often conceals the reality that riding

resilience - creating bodies that are

control, and spinal support.

requires enormous physical and mental

strong, mobile, balanced, and capable of

In all aspects of equestrian horse-

endurance.

manship, a reactive, intelligent core is

The modern equestrienne is no longer

infinitely more valuable than aesthetic

training to become smaller. She is

Nowhere is this more evident than in the

abdominals. Riders who understand

training to become more capable. More

growing emphasis on glute strength. For

how to breathe, stabilise, and absorb

stable. More resilient. More powerful.

dressage riders, the glutes are not simply

movement through the torso often

More durable under pressure.

The conversation around rider fitness has evolved beyond chasing a smaller body or punishing cardio sessions.

supporting high-performance riding for years to come.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 101

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RIDE FIT

There is also a deeper cultural shift

RIDE FIT TRAINING TOOLKIT

occurring within the sport. For many women, fitness is no longer tied purely

30-Minute Equestrian Strength Circuit

to aesthetics. It has become a form of

Core • Adductors • Quads • Calves

self-respect and longevity. Riders are

Beginner to Intermediate

investing in bodies that will allow them to

A simple but effective strength session designed to support stability, endurance, and control in the saddle.

continue riding well into later decades not merely surviving the demands of the sport, but thriving within them.

Resilience has become the aspiration.

The strongest riders today are often the ones who recover well, move well, and

1. Wall Sit

4. Standing Calf Raises

•

Back flat against the wall

•

Lift heels slowly

•

Knees at 90 degrees

•

Pause at the top

•

Weight through heels

•

Lower with control

Benefits: Builds quad endurance for a stronger riding position.

Benefits: Strengthens calves and improves lower-leg stability.

mobility work, strength programming,

2. Glute Bridge + Pillow Squeeze

5. Squat Pulses

breathwork, and nervous system

•

Place a pillow or ball between the knees

•

Hold a low squat position

modern rider’s training toolkit.

•

Squeeze while lifting the hips

•

Perform small, controlled pulses

And perhaps that is the most exciting

•

Perform slow, controlled repetitions

•

Keep the chest upright

understand how to support their bodies outside the arena. Recovery sessions,

regulation are becoming part of the

evolution of all. The image of the equestrienne is changing. She is still elegant. Still poised. Still refined. But

Benefits: Targets the adductors while improving core stability.

Benefits: Develops quad strength and riding endurance.

Finisher: Horse Stance Hold (2 Minutes)

beneath the tailored breeches and

3. Dead Bugs

polished boots is something far more

•

Lower back pressed into the floor

powerful: an athlete.

•

Extend opposite arm and leg slowly

•

Maintain core engagement throughout

Benefits: Builds lower-body endurance and postural control.

Benefits: Improves balance and core control in the saddle.

Suggested Schedule: 2 days on, 1 day off, 1 day on, 1 day off.

Want to learn more about rider fitness, strength training, and building longevity in the saddle? Email Anne-Marie Lasserre for personalised coaching and rider performance support.

•

Wide squat hold

•

Toes slightly turned out

•

Stay low and breathe

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 103

T E C H TA L K

Data Decoded From GPS pace tracking to rider recovery scores, wearable technology is giving eventers a clearer picture of what really happens on course - and changing the way horse and rider train together, writes NICOLE CREED.

T

here's a moment on cross

What GPS Actually Gives You on Cross

For eventing specifically, where

country that every eventing

Country

optimum time penalties are a real part

rider knows all too well… you

A GPS device worn during a cross

of competition strategy, this data is

go through the finish flags, pull up,

country round captures your speed

genuinely useful. Cross country isn't

and your coach asks how it went.

continuously across the entire course.

just about getting around - it's about

You say something like "pretty good"

What you get afterwards is a picture

getting around at the right pace, and

or "he got a bit strong at the water"

of your ride that no trainer standing at

that requires knowing what your pace

and you both work from there. Your answer is honest, mostly useful, and it’s the way that we have always operated.

But here’s the thing - the memory of your ride and what actually happened on your ride are often two very different things.

When we are out on cross country, we have adrenaline pumping through our bodies, and we compress time under pressure. That five-minute round feels like it was 30 seconds. We remember the fences that felt hard, and forget the times where we quietly lost a bit

one fence, or even walking the whole course, can give you.

You can see your pace in meters per minute across every section of

actually looks like in real time, not just what it felt like.

At the training level, GPS helps you replicate competition conditions.

If you're preparing for a three-star and the required pace is 570 meters

"One of the most

useful things GPS analysis has revealed in studies is that time isn't actually lost in the dramatic moments - it's lost in the in between."

per minute, you can use GPS data in training to understand what that speed actually feels like on your horse, over terrain, and in different going conditions. You stop guessing and start building a real picture.

Speed Zones and Where Riders Lose Time One of the most useful things GPS analysis has revealed in studies is that

of pace just because nothing “major” happened. We think we held the

the track. You can see where you

time isn't actually lost in the dramatic

gallop strongly to the corner, but we

accelerated into fences and where

moments - it's lost in the in between.

actually backed off 30 meters out.

you steadied, where your horse

Most riders hold their pace reasonably

None of this we do deliberately, our

recovered well between efforts, and

well to the bigger or more technical

brains are just busy managing the

where the pace dropped off and

fences because those are the ones

horse, the track, the weather, and

didn't come back. You can see the

they're focused on. The time gets

our own nerves. So when it comes to

sections where you were consistently

recall after the ride, it is filtered.

under your target pace, and the

That is exactly where effective GPS

places where you were consistently

data changes the conversation.

over it.

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LEFT: When we are out on cross country, we have adrenaline pumping through our bodies, and we compress time.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 105

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106 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

T E C H TA L K

eaten up on the connecting lines,

itself is straightforward, which tells

It not only makes the technology

the long galloping sections, and in

you something about where your

user friendly and quick to put on, but

recovery after a demanding effort.

confidence genuinely lives versus

means it is now possible to build a

Without data, those stretches are

where you think it does.

picture that covers both ends of the

invisible. With data, they become the most actionable part of your debrief.

You might also notice that your heart

partnership.

rate is consistently higher in the first

You can see where your heart rate

You might discover that your horse

quarter of the course and settles as

spiked and compare it to what your

consistently drops pace after a water

you find your rhythm, which can affect

horse's heart rate was doing at the

complex and takes several strides

how you approach your warm up.

same point. You can look at whether

longer than ideal to rebuild. That's a

Specifically, Garmin's body battery

fitness conversation and a training

feature, which measures your energy

focus. On the other hand, you might

reserves based on sleep, stress, and

discover that you are the one backing

recent activity, is also worth paying

This kind of dual data isn't about

off on a long uphill and then over

attention to in a competition context.

making horses or riders into numbers.

galloping coming down the other

If you head onto cross country with a

It's about having conversations

side to compensate. That's a rhythm

body battery of 30, you are starting

grounded in something real, backed

conversation and something to work

that round already depleted. It doesn't

by data you can actually get behind.

on in schooling.

mean you can't perform, but it is useful information to keep in mind.

The data doesn't judge - it just shows you what happened, and that honesty is something even the best trainer in the world can't always provide from the sidelines.

The Rider's Data: Your Smart Watch Knows More Than You Think Here's where it gets interesting, because the data conversation doesn't have to stop at your horse.

"The data doesn't judge - it just shows you what happened, and that honesty is something even the best trainer in the world can't always provide from the sidelines."

captures. Your smart watch, worn throughout a competition or training session, is collecting your own heart rate, stress score, body battery, and recovery status. If you start paying attention to those numbers in the context of riding, the picture becomes much clearer.

off correlate with changes in your horse's gait data or pace.

When your trainer is watching you, they can instinctively read what is going on - but they cannot see that your heart rate spiked at fence seven, or that your horse’s pace dropped for 12 strides after the ditch and brush before never fully recovering.

That's what the data gives you - not a replacement for experience or feel, but a complement to it.

A Note on What's Ahead If you're headed to the Melbourne

Most riders already wear a sports watch and don't use half of what it

the moments you felt tense or backed

Stress scores overnight before a

International Three Day Event at

competition are another interesting

Werribee Park this month, it's worth

one. Riders who track this consistently

knowing that EquiCare will be there

often report that their worst rounds

alongside Garmin in the Trade Village.

follow nights of poor recovery data - not

If you've been curious about how

just poor sleep by feel, but measurably low recovery on their watch. Their watch knew before they did.

When Horse and Rider Data Meet Where things start getting genuinely

these tools actually work in practice, it's a good place to see them, ask questions, and talk to people who are using them every day.

The sport is changing, and we finally

Your heart rate on cross country is

exciting for the performance-minded

going to be elevated - that's expected

rider is looking at horse and rider data

and normal. But riders who track their

together.

own data over multiple competitions

Tools like the Garmin Blaze (which

start to notice patterns. You might

launched in late 2025) sit on your

find that your heart rate spikes

horse’s tail and track things like

Tech Talk is brought to you by Equicare.

significantly higher at a particular

GPS, heart rate, skin temperature,

Visit the website to start your 14 day

type of fence, even when the fence

gait, speed, and strides in real time.

free trial.

have the tools we have always wanted at our disposal. The riders using them aren't replacing instinct, they're just sharpening it.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 107

EVENT

horses, sport and pageantry while still

Royal Windsor

retaining its close royal connections and traditional charm.

Genuinely spoilt for choice, spectators can watch world-class show jumping

The Royal Windsor Horse Show is where royal tradition meets world class sport. TANIA HUPPATZ reports

during the CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix classes, experience the excitement and precision of the CAIO4* International Carriage Driving Grand Prix, and follow riders in the CEI3* Royal Windsor

T

Endurance, as well as taking their

here are not many horse shows

than 55,000 visitors annually, and has

pick from over 120 showing classes,

in the world that combine elite

become one of the most anticipated

plus military displays and a variety of

international competition, royal

events on the British equestrian

demonstrations.

tradition and an unforgettable setting

calendar.

quite like the Royal Windsor Horse

A Show with Royal Character

Originally established in 1943 to help

The show has always enjoyed a close

Show. Held in the private grounds of

raise funds for the war effort, the event

connection with the Royal Family. King

Windsor Castle, the show attracts more

has grown into a four-day celebration of

Charles III is the show’s Patron, and the

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F E AT U R E

ABOVE: The line-up of carriages is just one feature in the celebration of horses, sport and pageantry that defines the Royal Windsor Horse Show (Image by Tania Huppatz).

Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Alsharbatly and Luxembourg’s Victor

President and Co-President. All three

Castle Arena. Across the four days, the

Bettendorf.

were in attendance this year, but for

arena hosts an extraordinary mix of

many visitors, Queen Elizabeth II is still

competition and entertainment: from

fondly remembered. Spectators would

elite international show jumping, to

often spot her watching her beloved

the ever-popular Shetland Pony Grand

Highland ponies compete before

National, followed by musical and

returning to the Castle for lunch, later

driving displays in the evening.

reappearing ringside in the afternoon.

The show’s jumping classes attract

While most show visitors are warmly

many of the sport’s biggest names,

welcomed, dogs are not! Legend has it

with Scott Brash, Ben Maher, Matthew

that during the inaugural show in 1943,

Sampson, Harry Charles and members

a lurcher stole a piece of chicken from

of the famous Whitaker family among

King George VI’s lunch plate, leaving

the British contingent.

the organisers so mortified that dogs have been banned ever since.

Ben Maher on Ginger-Blue also secured an important win for Great Britain in the CSI5* Kingdom of Bahrain Stakes for The King’s Cup, finishing ahead of Germany’s Richard Vogel and Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs.

The CSI5* Rolex Grand Prix brought the international jumping programme to a spectacular conclusion. A world-class field of 34 combinations contested the €500,000 (approx. A$941,450.00) class, including six of the world’s current top

Matthew Sampson gave the home

10 riders. The challenging 1.60m course,

crowd plenty to celebrate when he

designed by Portugal’s Bernardo Costa

From Shetlands to 5*

claimed victory in the CSI5* Pearl Stakes

Cabral, tested both precision and

With the castle as a striking backdrop,

aboard Nouvelle V.H. Veldhop, finishing

bravery, and led to an exciting five-

many of the top events are held in the

ahead of Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah

horse jump-off.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 109

EVENT

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EVENT

ABOVE: Unfortunately, after returning to Windsor as defending champion, Boyd Exell's extraordinary run of victories came to an end when one of his horses slipped during the marathon phase (Image by Tania Huppatz). LEFT: KBF Lucia exhibited

by Jayne Ross, winners of the Coloured Ridden Championship (Image courtesy Royal Windsor Horse Show).

Luxembourg’s Victor Bettendorf

One of the most interesting aspects

got a leg over the trace. Veterinary

delivered a perfect clear round aboard

is the judging system itself. In ridden

officials responded quickly and

Qwando van de Rispen to take victory,

classes, judges often ride each horse

thankfully the horse was reported to be

Britain’s Ben Maher finished second

before the saddles are removed and

well. Dries Degrieck ultimately claimed

and Harry Charles secured third place.

the horses trotted up for a conformation

overall victory after delivering the

With a technical course and dramatic

assessment. Although presentation

most consistent performances across

finale, the Rolex Grand Prix remains

standards are exceptional, manners,

all phases, with Chester Webster in

one of the reasons why Royal Windsor

movement, conformation, rideability and

second place and Dutch driver Ljsbrand

is a standout event on the international

correctness are all an important part of

Chardon in third.

show jumping calendar.

the judging process.

Dressage Masterclass

A Celebration of Showing

Speed, Precision, Drama

The Thursday afternoon international

While the international jumping classes

Australia’s Boyd Exell returned to

dressage classes have long been

attract huge crowds, Royal Windsor

Windsor as defending champion after

a crowd favourite. However, due to

also celebrates showing in spectacular

securing an extraordinary 15th victory

funding pressures, the CSIO dressage

fashion, with over 120 classes including

in 2025. Following the dressage phase

competition was removed from the

hunters, hacks, cobs, riding horses,

of the CAIO4* Four-in-Hand World Cup

Mountain and Moorland ponies, Arabs,

Qualifier, America’s Chester Weber led

side saddle, lead rein and working

the field on 34.73 penalties ahead of

hunters. The sheer scale and diversity

Belgium’s Dries Degrieck on 38.39, with

is impressive and offers a fascinating

Exell sitting third on 40.12. Unfortunately

insight into a discipline that remains

for Boyd, one of his leader horses

deeply rooted in British equestrian

sustaining a small cut when they slipped

culture.

on an outside turn in obstacle two and

schedule in 2025, and replaced with the Defender Dressage Masterclass.

While many dressage fans undoubtedly miss the atmosphere of international competition, the masterclass provides an entertaining and educational alternative.

This year’s session was hosted E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 111

EVENT

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EVENT

ABOVE: Beck Moody and Jagerbomb delighted spectators DURING THE the Defender Dressage Masterclass (Image by Tania Huppatz). by respected British trainer and

A Great Day Out

has traditionally been one of the most

commentator Richard Davison, and

Royal Windsor Horse Show is about

moving aspects of the show. Sadly, this

featured Olympic medallists Carl Hester

far more than competition. The event

year the event was touched by tragedy

and Becky Moody. Together they gave

has a wonderfully social atmosphere,

following the death of one of the King’s

the audience a fascinating insight into

with shopping, food stalls, displays and

Troop after a fall from a horse. As a

the finer details behind elite dressage

entertainment.

mark of respect, the remaining displays

performance, discussing freestyle

The Performance Hub has become

were cancelled for the rest of the show.

music, training techniques, presentation

a popular addition, with interviews

and the preparation required at the

With elite sport alongside family

featuring leading riders and equestrian

highest level of the sport.

entertainment, royal ceremony

personalities. The Talk Horse team,

beside legendary British humour, and

One of the highlights was the

including Pippa Funnell and Tristan

everything from Olympic riders to tiny

opportunity to watch Becky Moody

Phipps, also brings a relaxed and engaging element to the program,

Shetland Pony Grand National jockeys

ride her talented home-bred gelding Jagerbomb. Fresh from their victory

giving visitors the chance to hear stories

at the FEI Dressage World Cup

and insights from well-known names in

Final in Fort Worth, Texas, the pair

the sport.

sharing the spotlight, Royal Windsor remains a fascinating mix of contrasts and tradition.

demonstrated the quality and harmony

Displays such as Azerbaijan, Land of

Snaffle Travel specialise in escorted

that has made them one of Britain’s

Fire added colour and spectacle, while

tours to the world's top horse events

standout combinations.

the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery

and experiences.

E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 113

PROPERTY

Pedigree and Permanence Located in Dooralong Valley on the NSW Central Coast, Parkview Estate represents a unique and rarely seen opportunity.

S

et across approximately 18.8

pedigree and permanence from the

a full-sized dressage arena, 16 stables,

level acres in one of the Central

moment you arrive. The residence

tack and feed rooms, wash bay, fenced

Coast’s most tightly held valleys,

itself is beautifully proportioned, with

paddocks and day shelters - offering

Parkview Estate is a landmark equine

soaring ceilings, expansive living and

the infrastructure to accommodate

holding where scale, privacy, lifestyle

entertaining spaces, and a seamless

serious equine pursuits while still

and infrastructure come together in a

connection to the surrounding gardens,

retaining the warmth and refinement of

way rarely seen.

paddocks and landscape.

a private family estate.

Originally established by the Inglis

For the equestrian buyer, the property

Parkview Estate is far more than simply

family, the estate carries a sense of

presents an exceptional platform with

a horse property. Designed around

114 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

A dedicated bar and snooker room flow effortlessly to an alfresco terrace.

The 16 stables are complemented by fully fenced paddocks and day shelters.

For the equestrian buyer, the property offers exceptional infrastructure.

entertaining, retreat and connection,

contribute to the feeling that this is a

sense of seclusion, Parkview Estate

one wing of the home unfolds into

complete lifestyle offering of genuine

remains highly connected - moments

a dedicated bar and snooker room

substance and rarity.

to Wyong Race Club, local schools, rail,

flowing effortlessly to the alfresco

A fully self-contained two-bedroom

terrace, resort-style pool and manicured

secondary residence further

grounds. A private basement cellar and

enhances the estate’s flexibility, ideal

tasting room, sunken firepit, pickleball

for extended family, guests, staff

feeling a world away.

court, picturesque dam with feature

accommodation or multigenerational

View the property online or call Tyson

island and Jilliby Creek frontage all

living. And despite its remarkable

Nicholson on 0418 251 312.

Westfield Tuggerah and major arterial links, placing Sydney and Newcastle comfortably within reach while still

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PODCAST From the Arena to Your AirPods

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Your hosts Charlie Brister and Holly Hall Perrin bring you grassroots rider stories, exper t insights and inspiring conversations with top international competitors.

Available now wherever you listen.

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REAL RIDERS. REAL INSIGHTS. REAL CONNECTION.

116 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6

W H AT W E ' R E LOV I N G

The Bottom Line Brave the elements in style with a pair of warm, practical, weatherproof pants.

Woof Wear All Season Waterproof Riding Trousers are comfortable and breathable.

Whether you're in the saddle or working around the yard, you'll stay dry and protected without compromising on flexibility or comfort. Featuring a high waistband for a watertight seal under jackets, a silicone full seat for secure grip, and reflective piping for added visibility, these pants are smart, functional and built to perform in all conditions.

Woof Wear All Season Waterproof Riding Trousers

Stay protected from the elements in Cuddle Shield Fleece Lined Weatherproof Trousers. Featuring secure, waterproof zips, and a thick Sherpa lining for ultimate warmth, these trousers are windproof and designed to block out chilly gusts. Stylish and comfortable, the elasticated ankle cuffs offer a snug fit that prevents cold air entering - ideal if you prefer ankle boots but want maximum protection.

Cuddlr Shield Fleece-Lined Weatherproof Trousers

The Mountain Horse Jen Softshell Pant is designed to keep you dry and warm in a variety of weather conditions. These ultimate softshell cover pants provide excellent protection while ensuring you remain comfortable. Perfect for allweather riding, they are the ideal choice for staying active no matter what the weather.

Mountain Horse Jen Softshell Pant

Leader Equine’s Tully Waterproof Pants offer durable, breathable protection through autumn and winter. Reliable in even the most challenging conditions, you'll stay comfortable whether you're working in the yard, feeding out, walking the dogs, or hitting the slopes. Capable of withstanding up to 10,000 millilitres of water pressure before leaking, these pants protect no matter how heavy the rain or snow.

Leader Equine LE Tully Waterproof Pants E Q U E S T R I A N H U B . C O M . AU | 117

I N T R O D U C I N G

A magazine for women who live & ride with style.

E Q U E S T R I E N N E M A G A Z I N E . C O M 118 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B JUNE 2 0 2 6