Saddle Up for a Good Time at Jolong Park By Melissa McCullough & Chelsea Thompson
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eing apprehensive about sending the kids, whose only past contact with horses was by way of pony rides, was a total waste of brain cells! After one quick conversation with Janelle Martin, program manager at Jolong Park, I was confident they’d have an amazing day at the purpose-built, state-of-the-art equestrian property.
“The Jolong Park school holiday programs have been designed to allow children a unique opportunity to understand the basics of horses, progress with their riding and make like-minded friends.”, says Janelle. We joined the Dragon group for the full day school holiday program which caters for kids aged seven and up and who are eager to learn to ride horses. This program provides children with the ultimate learning experience, through riding, theory and interactive activities. On arrival, we immediately spotted a few happy horses. Eeeeeeeee! All the elders checked their kids in and milled around in a group for a few minutes. The lush green property is manicured exquisitely with sweeping views over the track, stables and indoor arena. After a quick talk to the kids by Janelle and her affectionately deputised “2IC”, or second-in-command, Madi, anyone not a child was politely excused for the day and offered the opportunity to arrive back a bit early to witness the kids in action and take their guaranteed* sleepy bodies home. Before leaving I had a quick look at the itinerary for the day, which consisted of familiarization with the horses, introduction to riding and then putting the theories into practise. Then a quick thumbs up to the kids and off I went. Upon my return to the grounds, I found the group at the indoor arena taking turns riding with an aide running alongside. The kids performed small tricks riding for a few moments with one hand or no hands. Some horses trotted over small barriers…nothing crazy or dangerous. What was clearly obvious, was how much fun the group was having. With beaming smiles and eager anticipation, the kids each had a turn on every adorably named horse. (I’m looking at you Maggie, Raffy, Dixie, Toto, Jimmy, Nugget, Buddy et al.) The day was filled with all things horsy as well as snacks and lunch for both equines and humans. Janelle also mentioned, “There is also a program for the little ones! The Panda group caters for ages three to six years old. Beginner riders can enjoy this half-day program, jam-packed with everything horses. Activities, riding and a shortened theory lesson are included in this program.” *I picked them up at 4pm and it was a snooze fest in the car by 4:07. Wondered if it was too early to put them to bed for the night. If your pony-loving poppets are looking for more time with their horsey friends and love a sleep-over, Jolong Park also offers a two day overnight equestrian camp. This in-depth experience is a self-improving equestrian
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Peninsula Kids – Winter 2019