Horse Report March 2026 digital edition by the horse report

The Horse Report Bringing Australia’s equestrian coaches together

Supplied by EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA

CANTERCON is set to unite Australia’s equestrian coaching community in 2026, with organisers from Equestrian Australia (EA), Pony Club Australia (PCA), and Riding for the Disabled Australia (RDA) joining forces to deliver a national event created specifically for coaches who want to connect, learn, and feel part of a broader equestrian coaching network.

The two-day conference will take place at Melbourne Showgrounds on 25–26 July 2026, transforming the Victorian Pavilion into a shared learning hub for practical workshops, sector insights, and genuine cross-discipline collaboration.

Organisers say the event was designed with one clear purpose: to bring coaches together.

They emphasise that CANTERis for coaches, with the name itself capturing the spirit of the event.

CANTER stands for:

Coaching Advancement through Networking

Training Education and Relationships

This reflects the event’s core vision of coaching the future together by collaborating.

CANTERCON will feature industry leaders, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive sessions aimed at expanding coaching toolkits and strengthening the sense of connection across EA, PCA, and RDA pathways.

Whether coaches work in high-performance sport, grassroots development, or

inclusive equestrian programs, the event offers a rare opportunity to learn alongside peers from across the national coaching landscape.

Organisers say they couldn’t be happier with the response, support, and encouragement they’ve received from their respective teams—and from the Australian Sports Commission.

This backing has reinforced the importance of creating a shared space where coaches feel valued, supported, and part of something bigger.

Coaches who register their interest early will receive first access to early-bird tickets, presenter announcements, behind-thescenes previews, and priority booking for limited-capacity workshops.

Those on the Expression of Interest list will be notified before the event is publicly launched, giving them the best chance to secure a place at what is expected to be a landmark gathering for the sector.

CANTERCON aims to strengthen the coaching community by creating a space where coaches can learn, share, and feel connected to a wider national network— reflecting the shared commitment of EA, PCA, and RDAto elevate coaching across Australia.

Visit www.equestrian.org.au to register your interest or to find out more information.

The Secret is out!

Vet-formulated for joint protection & mobility Combines Rosehip, MSM, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Green-Lipped Mussel & Turmeric Results in as little as 2–3 weeks No fillers – just powerful therapeutic support

"This blend is absolutely mind-blowing. All of the therapeutic ingredients that horse owners once had to use separately are now in one powerful, practitioner strength formula."

– Tamara Frances, Nutritionist & Herbalist

The Horse Report Hygain® fuels the future with fresh packaging

Provided by HYGAIN

Hygain® is proud to unveil a fresh new look for its entire feed range, rolling out to stockists across Australia and New Zealand from February 2026. The redesigned bags make choosing the right feed faster, easier and more intuitive, while continuing to deliver the same trusted formulas horse owners have relied on for 43 years.

Modelled on the clean, clear design of the recently launched Hygain® Edge® race feed, the refreshed packaging makes it simple to see what’s inside and recognise your favourite feeds at a glance.

Larger, sharper feed images, consistent styling across the range and easy-open bags combine to make feeding time smoother and more efficient. The update also incorporates

cent recycled material and use less plastic overall, reflecting Hygain®’s commitment to fuelling the future without compromising durability or feed quality.

“We wanted all our packaging to reflect the quality, care and advanced nutrition behind every bag of Hygain® feed,” Hygain CEO Peter Weaver said.

every bag, including starch content for each feed. At the same time, the move to less plastic and recycled materials is part of our ongoing commitment to more sustainable operations.”

Additional packaging improvements include:

• Prominent Australian-made equine-only icon on every bag to highlight our dedication to

Hygain® website for easy access to detailed feed information.

• “Suitable for” icons on the front of every bag to show the type of horse each feed is designed for.

• Simplified gusset design for easier identification on pallets, helping stores, transporters and customers.

• Distinctive visual cues to differentiate feed types:

o Racing feeds: gold metallic swoosh on the front

o Fortified (complete) feeds: white header with blue logo

o Non-fortified feeds (including grain and fibre): blue header with white logo

The new Hygain® bags will begin appearing in stores from February 2026, bringing a smarter, clearer and more consistent look to the range while maintaining the same feed quality horse owners trust across the

The Horse Report

What is animal Reiki technique & treatments?

By Dr ANGELIQUE BARBARA, Founder of Holistic Animal Studies

The Reiki technique was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui.

This is a healing energy technique that utilizes life energy force that is transmitted from the practitioner’s hands.

This technique was originally developed for people, but has been used frequently on animals as well.

Dr Angel is a trained Reiki Master she developed an animal healing symbol that she believes helps intensify the Reiki energy when working on animals.

Reiki energy can help an animal decrease pain, provide them emotion relief and allow their bodies to naturally heal themselves.

While Reiki treatments do not replace veterinary medicine or other forms of animal bodywork, it can be very beneficial in working with all types of animals including those who do not want to be touched or are afraid of human contact.

Those who practice Levels II and III Reiki are able to send Reiki energy over distances, allowing them to work on animals who are not immediately in front of them.

In Dr Angel's online course, she teaches students how to perform Reiki healing on animals and provides them with the necessary attunements so that life energy can begin flowing freely through them.

Only those who have undergone Reiki attunements are able to perform Reiki sessions

How does this course differ from traditional Reiki courses?

While traditional Reiki courses are focused on human healing, our course is specifically designed for animal healing.

The course covers equine, feline and canine behavior and handling, to better help our practitioners read an animal's body language. It also teaches our students an Animal Reiki symbol that enhances the healing energy when working on animals.

Those who are human Reiki practitioners can benefit from taking this course as well as those who have never completed a Reiki course.

The Horse Report

How to measure equine feacal PH & gut health

By FEEDXL EQUINE NUTRITION TEAM

Gut health - it’s so important for horses but also really hard to ‘measure’.

One way to get a bit of an indication of what your horse’s hindgut health is like is to check faecal pH.

Faecal pH = gut health = horse health

Interpreting faecalPH

Ahealthy hindgut will stay at quite a neutral pH, close to 7.

At this pH, the good fibre fermenting bacteria will be living happily ever after and doing an amazing job of digesting fibre for your horse.

Ahigh pH (over 8) may indicate that there is not a lot of fibre fermentation happening in the hindgut for some reason.

Alow pH (less than 6.5) may indicate that there is too much fermentation of starch and sugars happening.

The good fibre fermenting bacteria don’t like living in these lower pH conditions and will be starting to shut down.

If pH goes below 6.2 you can be almost certain that a lot of your good fibre fermenting bacteria will be starting to die and your horse will lose the ability to digest fibre (which then causes all sorts of problems including weight loss and vitamin deficiency).

An easy DIY hindgut health check

So, if you want to do a quick check on hindgut health, grab a ‘soil pH test kit’ (Google that, you will find plenty of options for inexpensive kits).

Use it on a fresh pile of your horse’s manure.

You might find that pH is just right, or you may just find that something is a little out of kilter and you need to adjust the diet to get it back to a more neutral pH. It is a simple test but the results may help you better undertsand your horse’s health. Have fun.

www.feedxl.com follow

The Horse Report

Should I feed barley hay to my horse?

Supplied by RANVET

Choosing hay for your horse is hard enough, especially given the rising costs.

Settling on a variety that not only suits your horse’s needs, is easy to source and consistent in quality can be challenging.

Barley hay is a variety we have been seeing more of in our online diet evaluation submissions.

While barley hay can be a good choice for your horse, it must be feed with caution and it’s important to select a good quality one.

Barley hay is generally lower in calcium, energy and protein than some other types of hay but is still a good form of roughage.

It is important to note that it is also higher in sugar so should be feed with caution to certain horses.

The main concern regarding feeding barley hay is the presence of awns or seed heads.

The awns are found on the end of the glumes in a spikelet that are quite sharp.

These sharp awns can lodge themselves in the gums and tongue of the horse whilst they are eating the hay, and can become quite painful.

If not checked regularly they can build up and lead to masses of the seeds being embedded in the gums, causing infection and a nasty smell.

Removing the seeds is not easy and should be done with the help of a veterinarian or qualified

Some things you can do to help prevent your horse suffering this if you do feed barley hay is to:

* Check gums and tongue regularly for any signs of seeds

* There are types of barley being grown that are awnless or beardless, this should be considered as a better alternative if you can source it.

* Buy hay that has been baled at a younger stage when the awns are less developed and therefore not as harmful

* If you can’t access these types of hay, you can soak your barley hay to help soften the awns before feeding.

Feeding barley hay can be beneficial especially in winter or dry times when extra roughage is needed, however care should be taken and if you monitor your horse and choose carefully is safe to feed.

Finding your horses ration troubling?

Looking for a second opinion?

Submit your horse’s diet online for a free diet evaluation!

https://www.ranvet.com.au/nutrition-centre/diet-evaluation/

Sharp awns can lodge themselves in the gums

Equine Health Feature

The Horse Report

"The Gold Standard in Equine Bodywork Education - Where Top Professionals Begin." Unlock your future with the Original Equine Body Worker (EEBW) Certification Program, the program that set the benchmark in the industry. Developed by Debranne Pattillo and taught by world-renowned experts, our courses deliver the knowledge, precision, and credibility you need to rise to the top.

YOUR INSTRUCTORS:

Debranne Pattillo MEEBW, MSc.(h.c.), ASTR

Dr. Sandra Howlett, DC. CST-D, ECST, Certified Veterinary Chiropractic, EFLC

Dr. Carrie Schlachter VMD, DACVSMR

Courtney Molino, RVT, EEBW, CERP, CCRA

Dr. Raquel Butler, BVSC, EMRT, Grad Dip ABM

UPCOMING COURSES

* EQ100: Equine Body Worker Certification

Dr. Raquel Butler

o NZ: Jan 10-18, 2026 (Hawk's Bay) - NZ$4000

o AUS: Mar 15-23, 2026 (Guyra, NSW) - AU$3580

* EQ106: Equinology's Equine Body Worker® Review

Debranne Pattillo

o Apr 27-29, 2026 (Guyra, NSW)

* EQ900: Anatomy Discovery Workshop - Clay & Hands On Debranne Pattillo

o May 1-7, 2026 (NSW)

* EQ1200: Equine CranioSacral Therapy - Level 1

Dr. Sandra Howlett

o Nov 14-18, 2025 (NSW)

o Nov 20-24, 2025 (NSW)

o Level 2 coming in 2026

* EQ800: Foundations ofEquine Acupressure - Level 1

Susan Tenney

o Dec 3-6, 2025 (Oak Bank, South Australia)

o Next return: 2028

* EQ810: Foundations ofEquine Acupressure - Level 2

Susan Tenney

o Dec 8-11, 2025 (Oak Bank, South Australia)

www.equinology.com

The Horse Report

Byron Bay Equine Practice

Dedicated

Routine Visits & Preventative Health

Lameness & Orthopaedic Checks

Portable Diagnostic Imaging

Dental Exams & Powerfloating

Reproduction & Breeding Services

Routine Surgeries

Freeze Branding & Stud ID

Emergency & After Hours Services

The Horse Report

Feature Hindgut bacteria, vitamin B1 and behaviour

By FEEDXL

How Vitamin B1 affects your horse’s gut bacteria

Vitamin B1 has been observed to have an influence on behaviour in multiple animal species, including horses.

Ahorse will meet its vitamin B1 requirements via the vitamin B1 it eats in its diet and from vitamin B1 produced by the bacteria in its hindgut.

There are two main families of bacteria living in your horse’s hindgut:

1. The fiber fermenting bacteria who love to ferment fibre from the forage your horse eats. These little critters are the ones we consider the ‘good bacteria’; and 2. The starch and sugar fermenting bacteria who prefer to ferment starch and sugars. These we generally consider to be the ‘bad bacteria’.

The good bacteria produce vitamin B1 that your horse can then absorb and use. On the other hand, the bad bacteria produce a compound called ‘Thiaminase’that actually destroys vitamin B1 (also known as thiamine) that is in the gut, making it useless to your horse.

How hindgut bacteria affects your horse’s behaviour

If your horse has too many bad bacteria in its hindgut, and not enough of the good ones, your horse may not get enough vitamin B1 and behavioural changes may occur.

What you can do

How do you avoid this?

Keep your horse’s hindgut healthy with an abundant population of good bacteria. The main two things you should do to achieve this are:

1. Feed lots of forage!

2. Never feed uncooked grains (with the exception of oats for some horses)

For more tips on caring for your horse’s hindgut, read our article ‘Keeping the Hindgut Healthy’.

https://feedxl.com/15-keeping-the-hindguthealthy/

www.feedxl.com follow us on support@feedxl.com

The Horse Report

Radiographic proof in clinical results

By Dr ANDREWWATTSBVSc Equine Veterinarian

BONE Gold nutritional bone joint and collagen supplement was formulated to provide some of the essential amino acid requirements of collagen type I, II and III (found in bone and connective tissue) in addition to supporting the nitric oxide pathway which has been found to assist in the formation of bone callus postinjury.

Veterinary surgeons have recommended that Bone Gold may assist with sore shins, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis and post-surgery in horses and polyarthritis, geriatric osteoarthritis, and post-surgery in dogs.

Here is a veterinary radiographic report on a horse with a fracture evident on the medial toe and after treatment and feeding Bone Gold during this period. More information on these products can be found at www.vetgold.com.au

VETERINARY RADIOGRAPHIC REPORT

HORSE: "XXXXXXXX"

DATES OF EXAMINATION: 26TH AUG, 21ST OCT 21 & 17TH NOV '21

PLACE: XXXXXXXXXX FARM

XXXXXXX's left and right front feet were radiographed on 26th Aug, 21st Oct (8 weeks) and again on the 17th Nov '21(12 weeks).

RADIOGRAPHS:

26.08.21: Right Front: Large P3 solar margin fracture evident on medial toe 32.6mm x 4.1mm with approximately 1.4mm separation from parent bone as below left image.

21.10.21: Right Front: Fine residual 4.2mm fracture still evident, approximately 90% resolution

17.11.21: Right Front: Fracture fully resolved

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Radiographic results as of the 17th Nov '21 show total resolution of the original fracture.

XXXXXXX was reshod today utilising off an alloy shoe with a toe clip - inner circumference seated out to avoid any sole pressure.

The horse can return to training. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further queries

COMMENTS:

Solar margin Type IV fractures of this magnitude have well-documented internationally published healing rates of 7 - 12 months. Full resolution of these fractures is rare as most often the fracture fragments are resorbed.

Full resolution in a 3 month period was not anticipated.

The horse was on Bone Gold 3 x scoops fed once per day for this period.

"Go to our webpage or scan the QR Code to see more Bone Gold Radiographic results"

The Horse Report

What makes Rose-Hip Vital Equine stand

There are in fact many reasons. It all starts with the humble Rosehip, the berry-like fruit of the wild rose bush species Rosa Canina. A wholefood known to be one of nature’s richest sources of natural vitamin C. A superfood containing 8 naturally occurring vitamins (including C, E, B1 and B6) and 23 minerals (including iron, copper, zinc and magnesium), essential fatty acids (omegas 3, 6 and 9),

You may already know rosehips are often fed to horses for immune system support and a

improved circulation and improved digestive function. So you’re probably wondering what makes Rose-Hip Vital® so special?

Rose-Hip Vital® is made from Rosehips manufactured with patented extraction and drying processes which isolate and activate a galactolipid (fatty acid) called GOPO®. GOPO® has clinically proven anti-

The patented processes also concentrate and preserve the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, transforming Rose-Hip Vital® into a product that is both in a category all on its own, and across many; It’s a joint

antioxidant and a nutritional supplement. It delivers noticeable improvements to mobility, mood, condition, willingness to move forward, performance and recovery while reducing

improving general health and wellbeing, and boosting immunity.

Rose-Hip Vital® is a clinically proven plantand rich source of natural vitamin C. There is no product like it. Unlike other joint supplements, Rose-Hip Vital® is 100% plant-

Rose-Hip Vital® is safe for long term use and it does not swab. It can be used alongside conventional treatments and supplements as well as potentially replacing or reducing the medication.

Horses like it so much, even the fussiest of eaters become more enthusiastic about their feed once Rose-Hip Vital is added. So while Rose-Hip Vital Equine has become a highly use, it also has become highly recommended for improving general health and wellbeing, improving performance and maintaining healthy joints.

How does Rose-Hip Vital® Equine lengthen the lifetime of a working horse?

Vital is comprehensive. There are in excess of placebo controlled clinical trials on people, dogs and horses mainly focusing on antithe unique compound GOPO.

To many people, antioxidants and anti-aging go hand-in-hand. Antioxidants are talked about as the antidote to cell-damaging free radicals. Exercise and the associated stress and increase in oxygen consumption are linked to an increased production of free radicals. When the production of free radicals overwhelms the body’s antioxidant defences, oxidative stress can occur with subsequent

research shows horses need natural vitamin C to help block toxic free radical activity, which causes damage throughout the body including joints and cartilage.

Some white blood cells in the body contain granulocytes which enable them to ‘clean’

bacteria in it. Too many of these white blood cells wear down tissue cartilage. In large numbers they can also produce chemical enzymes and toxic freeradicals which cause even more tissue damage. Excess accumulation of white blood cells combined with the release of chemical substances cause’s joint pain

The more becomes, the more the white blood cells are attracted to it –a painful cycle.

protects cartilage. This means it helps to delay the onset of arthritic changes or slow down further cartilage degeneration if it already exists.

In short, if you want to extend the lifetime of your working horse, feed it a natural antirich source of natural vitamin C. Rose-Hip Vital® Equine is your only option, and the results speak for themselves.

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The Horse Report Osteoarthritis in our performance horses

By GOLD COAST EQUINE CLINIC

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the more common performance-limiting causes of lameness in horses that we see at Gold Coast Equine Clinic.

It's not simply "wear and tear."

OAis an active, inflammatory process inside the joint that progressively changes cartilage, synovial fluid, subchondral bone and the joint capsule.

As the disease advances, many horses show joint effusion (filling), reduced range of motion and pain that can be subtle at first but can become significant over time if left untreated.

Performance horses are commonly more at risk as they tend to place repeatedly high forces through specific joints ~ the most common findings occurring often in the fetlocks, hocks, stifles and coffin joints.

Not one sport is better or worse for OAthan another, but some potential triggers are intense speed work, jumping, turning and collected work- especially on uneven footing or particularly deep/hard surfaces.

OAtends to develop when a joint is repeatedly overloaded or previously injured ~ or when there is an underlying joint "risk" such as conformational stress, poor hoof balance, joint instability, developmental joint disease (e.g., osteochondrosis) or a history of inflammation/infection.

Over time, micro-damage triggers inflammatory mediators in the synovial lining; cartilage loses resilience, and the bone beneath cartilage remodels.

The result is a joint that is less shock-absorbing, more painful,

and less efficient.

What owners may notice first OAin a horse often presents as a performance problem before an obvious limp.

Common early signs include:

- Shortened stride length, loss of "push," or reduced suspension

- Difficulty maintaining straightness, drifting, or uneven contact

- Reluctance to sit, collect, or step under (often seen with hock/stifle pain)

- Inconsistent lead changes, disengagement whilst cantering, or frequent swapping behind

- Stiffness at the start of work that improves as the horse warms up, then worsens with fatigue

- Intermittent lameness after harder sessions or travel

- Heat, filling, or thickening around a joint; reduced flexion tolerance

These signs can be mistaken for training issues, saddle fit, rider influence, or "attitude."

How osteoarthritis is diagnosed:

Aclinically correct OAwork-up aims to identify which structure is painful and how advanced the disease is.

1.History: Discussions with the client to identify at what instance the lameness occurs (warm-up vs later), symptoms, what type of surface the horse is training on when it is more noticeable, what direction, what discipline and level the horse is training at and any workload

changes. Any previous clinical history is also helpful.

2.Lameness exam: The next step is a clinical examination and gait assessment in-hand and potentially under saddle , flexion tests, palpation, evaluation of the horses range of motion, and evaluation of hoof balance.

3. Diagnostic analgesia (nerve/joint blocks): localising the pain source remains a cornerstone of lameness work-ups in horses.

 Continued page 23

Prevenatative Care

Lameness Assessments

Dentistry

Diagnostics inc Ultrasound and Xray

In House Laboratory and FEC

Biologics inc PRP, IRAP & Prostride

Endoscopy inc Dynamic & Gastroscopy

Pre Purchase Examinations

Health Care Packages inc Performance and Geriatric

Rehabilitation

Shock Wave and Laser Therapy

Reproductive Services

Some potential triggers of Osteoarthritis (OA) are intense speed work, jumping, turning and collected work- especially on uneven footing or particularly deep/hard surfaces.

The Horse Report Osteoarthritis diagnosis & treatment options

 From page 22

4. Imaging:

- Radiographs (X-rays) help identify bony change typical of OA(osteophytes, joint space changes, subchondral sclerosis).

Radiography is a standard tool for many OA presentations.

- Ultrasound assesses soft tissues around the joint (capsule thickening, collateral ligaments, effusion patterns) and can complement radiographs.

- In select cases, referral for advanced imaging (e.g., CT/MRI) may be recommended when findings are unclear

Synovial fluid assessment can also contribute in certain cases by evaluating inflammation and ruling out other joint disease patterns.

Treatment options

OAmanagement works best when it's targeted, staged, and paired with workload and hoof/conditioning changes.

Treatments generally focus on reducing inflammation and pain, supporting joint environment, and preserving athletic function.

At Gold Coast Equine Clinic, typical OA management may include (but not limited to):

- Precise lameness localisation + imaging (X-ray and ultrasound) to ensure treatment is directed at the correct joint/region.

- Intra-articular therapy (joint injections) where indicated: Initially corticosteroids such as Triamcinolone (TA) and/or Hyaluronic acid (HA) are used to control synovitis and pain, with product choice and dosing tailored to the joint and performance demands as assessment progresses.

- Arthramid 2.5 injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (iPAAG)

- Orthobiologics/ regenerative joint therapies where appropriate:

- PRP(platelet-rich plasma) has growing evidence in equine OA, with systematic reviews describing overall safety and improvement in lameness/joint function across varied study designs.

- Pro-Stride® (autologous protein solution / APS) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine-concentrating orthobiologic with reviewed evidence showing clinical improvement in OA models and clinical settings.

- IRAP-type therapies (autologous antiinflammatory protein approaches) may be considered depending on joint, stage, and goals.

- Alpha 2 is a large glycoprotein which inhibits enzymes responsible for cartilage degradation.

- Shock Wave Therapy as an adjunct in selected OAcases and related pain conditions.

- Medical pain control (e.g., NSAIDs) when appropriate, balanced against gut/renal risk and competition considerations.

- Rehab planning: controlled exercise progressions, surface selection, conditioning,

and coordination with farriery, saddle, and physio inputs to reduce joint load drivers. The most successful OAoutcomes come from early identification, accurate localisation, and a plan that protects the joint longterm - rather than repeatedly chasing flareups or over administering corticosteroids. The goal is not only a sounder horse today, but a joint environment that stays quieter under work, allowing consistent training blocks and fewer setbacks.

When OAis addressed early and managed correctly, many performance horses remain competitive and comfortable for years.

The most successful OAoutcomes come from early identification, rather than repeatedly chasing flare-ups or over administering corticosteroids.

Janell Clarke P: 0412 747 401 E: Info@devineequine.com.au www.devineequine.com.au Follow us on Facebook @devineequinebrowbands

BARREL RACING www.abha.com.au

MARCH

7-8 Geurie, NSW

9 Waubra, VIC

14 Tarcutta, NSW

21-22 Bundarra Showgrounds NSW 21-22 Hillier, SA

28 Cooranbong, NSW

28-29 Scurrah Reserve Grounds, VIC

29 Moonbi, NSW

APRIL

3 AELEC Tamworth NSW

3-5 Bundarra Showgrounds NSW

4 Beaudesert, QLD 11-12 Cooma, NSW

11-12 Scurrah Reserve Grounds, VIC 17- 19 Hillier, SA

18 Tarcutta NSW

18 Cooranbong, NSW

18-19 Cootamundra, NSW

26 Walgett NSW BREEDS

MARCH

1 Arabian Summer show @ Gatton

8 Eastern Branch ASH Show @ Morisset

14-15 Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival

18-21 Australian Arabian National Championships

MAY

15-17 Qld ASH State show

24 Qld Riding Pony HOTY@ Park Ridge

CAMPDRAFTING/CUTTING /TEAM PENNING

MARCH

6-8 Urana Draft NSW

7-8 Maldon Draft VIC

7-8 Big River Campdraft Clinic

7 Boonah Twilight Campdraft

7-8 Stonehenge Invitational Campdraft

13-15 Braidwood show draft

13-15 Gwydir River Run Campdraft & Challenge

13-15 Mansfield draft

13-15 WDCA- Macarthur draft VIC 13-15 Tubbul Campdraft

13-15 Tooloombilla Campdraft

13-15 Toogoolawah Campdraft 14-15 Muswellbrook Campdraft 14-15 Gundagai draft NSW

20-22 Barnawartha draft VIC

21-22 Cobram draft VIC 20-22 Gunning draft NSW

APRIL

2-5 Ridgelands Campdraft

3-5 Kragra Campdraft

3-5 Eromanga Campdraft

3-5 Gulargambone Campdraft

3-5 Walchla Campdraft

3-5 Tarcutta Campdraft

3-5 Heyfield, VIC

3-5 Kinloch Wallendbeen Charity Campdraft

4-5 Hawkesdale Campdraft VIC

4-6 Balonne ASH Show & Campdraft

4-6 Caldervale Station, Tambo, QLD

8-13 Sydney RAS Campdraft

10-12 Cudal Campdraft

10-12 Curlewis Campdraft

10-12 Mitchell, QLD

10-11 Dirranbandi, QLD

10-12 Kumbia, QLD

10-12 Cobram, VIC

10-12 Goulburn, NSW

10-12 Boonderoo Jackpot Campdraft

10-12 Rolleston, QLD, 10-12 Clarke Creek, QLD

DRESSAGE.

www.qld.equestrian.org.au www.nsw.equestrian.org.au www.vic.equestrian.org.au www.sa.equestrian.org.au

www.wa.equestrian.org.au www.nt.equestrian.org.au www.tas.equestrian.org.au

MARCH

1 St Ives

1 Dubbo

10-12 Young Dressage Assoc 11-12 Rockhampton Eq Group 11-12 Atherton Tablelands

12 Caboolture

12 Mudgee

12 Armidale

12 Currumbin District Horse Club 18-19 Far North Equestrian Group 18-19 Bowral Dressage Club

0409 910 155 DRIVING www.australiancarriagedrivingsociety.org\ MARCH

21-22 Victorian CDE Championships

APRIL

3-6 NSW CDE Championships @ Boorowa 18-19 VIC Show Driving Championships 25-27 National CDE Championships ENDURANCE

www.aera.asn.au / www.tadra.asn.au

7 Combined Training & Dressage @Hawkesbury 8 Dressage @ Southport PC

14-15 Show Jumping, Dressage & Show Horse @ Toowoomba

21-22 Show Jumping @ Rockhampton

21-22 Show Jumping @ Gympie

29 Dressage Brisbane CDI POLO/ POLOCROSSE www.polocrosse.com.au

PONY CLUB

www.pcansw.org.au

www.ponyclubqld.com.au

www.ponyclubvic.org.au

www.ponyclub.asn.au

MARCH

13-15 NSW State Tetrathlon & Formal

Gymkhana Championships @ Nana Glen

APRIL

6-9 PCQ State Showjumping and Jumping

Equitation Champs @ Maryborough

15-16 Murwillumbah Pony Club Camp

17-19 NSW State Sporting, Campdraft & Challenge Championships @ Gresford REINING

www.reiningaustralia.com.au

MARCH

7-8 Ribbon show @ Gatton

23-28 Qld Shate Show @ QSEC

APRIL

4-5 Autumn Rein Show @ Gatton

25-26 Anzac Ribbon Show @ Dalby RODEO

www.nationalrodeoassociation.com.au

www.prorodeo.com.au

www.pbraustralia.com.au

MARCH

6 Pittsworth Show Rodeo

6 Kyrabram Rodeo

7 Barraba Xtreme Broncs

7 Wallumbilla Rodeo

14 Beenleigh Show Rodeo

14 Murgon Show Rodeo- Bull Ride

20 Fernvale Invitational Bullock Ride

21 Jandowae Show Rodeo

27 Toowoomba Show - BULLRIDE

28 Bundaberg Rodeo

APRIL

4 Red Dirt Australian Rodeo

11 Miriam Vale Rodeo

11 Dalby District Show Rodeo

18 Tamborine Rodeo

18 Nanango Show

18 Eidsvold Rodeo - Bull Ride

25 Tabulam Rodeo- Bull Ride

25 Maidenwell B&B

25 Alstonville Bulls, Broncs & Barrels

25 Monto Show Rodeo SHOWJUMPING /EVENTING

www.qld.equestrian.org.au

www.nsw.equestrian.org.au

www.vic.equestrian.org.au

www.sa.equestrian.org.au

www.wa.equestrian.org.au

www.nt.equestrian.org.au

www.tas.equestrian.org.au

FEBRUARY

12 GDPBoneo

14-15 Stonewall Young Horse Show

20-22 Boneo Grand Prix

MACRH

13-15 NVSJC World Cup Show @ Shepparton

19-21 Jumping with the Stars @Werribee

27-29 Stonewall Grand Prix Show SHOWHORSE

www.agsshowsnsw.org.au

www.qcas.net.au

www.vicagshows.com.au

www.sacountryshows.com

MARCH

1 Arabian Summer show @ Gatton

4 Show Horse Qld Judges seminar

6-7 Pittsworth

6-7 Proston

6-7 Armidale and New England Show

7 Tara

7-8 Goulburn Show

8 EQ Cup Hack Show @ Park Ridge

13 Miles

13-14 Inglewood

13-14 Murgon

13-15 Manilla Show

13-14 Coonabarabran Show

13-15 Wingham Show

14 Beenleigh

14 Oakey

14 Cooma Show

14-15 Castle Hill Show

20-21 Goomeri

20- 21 Gloucester Show

20-22 Warwick

25-28 Toowoomba Royal Show

29 Currumbin Hack Show

31-4 SHC Grand Nationals

APRIL

2-13 Sydney Royal Easter Show

10 Dalby show 10-11 Moree Show 10-11 Wauchope Show

11Gayndah Burnett 11 Dirranbandi S Qld 14-15 Kempsey Show 17 Wandoan Qld 17-18 Bonalbo Show 17-18 Macksville Show 17-18 Gunnedah Show 18 Nanango 18 Mount Perry

18 Goombungee

18 The Caves Qld 18-19 Stroud Show

Maclean Show

Grafton Show 24-26 Hawkesbury Show 25-26 Monto

26 EQ Anzac Show @ Park Ridge 26 Gilgandra Show

TRAIL RIDING & CTR

RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Show Prep

Australian Trail Horse Riders Association0418 438 807 www.athra.com.au

Beaudesert Shire 0429 443 237

Beechmont & District 0419 737 253

Bouldercombe 0459 451 967

Breakaway 0408 712 851

Brisbane Valley 0428 750 145

Cairns Trail Horse Club 0429 008 707

Calen Trail & Sports Club 0428 849 529

Cooloola Trail riders Ph 07 5482 8436

CTHC-Caboolture ph 07 5498 6068

Curtis & District 0438 111 091

Dayboro Trail Riders to 0432 186 200

Email - dayboro.trailriders@gmail.com

Gympie Region Horse Trail Riding Club 0488 015 673

Ipswich & District 0457 881 012

Logan River Redlands 0412 655 613

Mudgeeraba & Hinterland 0407 902 754

Rathdowney Trail Riding 07 5544 1177

Richmond River Trail Horse Riders Club 0431 486 354 / rrthrc@gmail.com

Saturday Horse Activities 0408 361 215

SCATER www.scater.com.au

Ph: 07 5478 8676 or 0417 612 061

Somerset Trail Riding Club - 0418 438 807

Sunny Coast Trail Club - 0428 176 557

Tweed-Byron Trail Riders 0418 400 047

Townsville Horse Trail Club 0407 117 998

Toowoomba Trail Riders 0419 614 426

Toowoomba's Cumburrie 0438 933 032

Trail Riding Australia 0458 342 067

Wide Bay Trail Riders 07 4126 3456 WESTERN www.aqha.com.au

The Horse Report

Why horses poo when they get on a float?

Supplied by RANVET

If you’ve ever taken your horse out for a competition, trail ride, or vet appointment, you’ve probably noticed a very common (and messy) behaviour: as soon as your horse steps onto the float, they do a poo.

While it might feel like an inconvenience when you’re trying to keep your float clean, this behaviour is actually quite normal and can be explained by equine physiology and psychology.

Here are 4 key reasons why we see this behaviour

1 - Stress, flight response and gut

One of the main reasons horses’poo when they get onto the float is stress and anticipation. Even if your horse is a seasoned traveller, floating is far from a “natural” situation for them.

Horses are prey animals who instinctively like open spaces, so stepping into a confined metal box, that also happens to move, is inherently stressful. When a horse feels stress, the body releases adrenaline and other hormones, such as Catecholamines. These chemicals activate the “fight or flight” response, which among other things, increases heart rate, respiration and speeds up gut movement. For many horses, this results in a bowel movement as soon as they enter the float. It’s the body’s way of “lightening the load” and preparing to flee, even though your horse is not actually running away.

2- Routine and anticipation

Horses are creatures of habit. They quickly learn to associate the float with certain events, such as competitions, clinics, or even a vet visit. The anticipation of what’s coming can trigger excitement or nervousness, both of which affect digestion. Just like some people feel the need to dash to the bathroom before an exam or a big meeting. For more seasoned travellers, some horses may empty their bowels before travel after sighting the float, but for others, confirmation of the trip ahead

One of the main reasons horses’poo when they get onto the float is stress

is granted once they make it on.

3 - Movement and posture

Another contributing factor is the physical act of stepping onto the float. Walking up the ramp, especially on large trucks, and shifting weight into a new position can stimulate the digestive system. Horses carry a large volume of feed and fibre in their gut, so even a small shift in posture or abdominal pressure can encourage a bowel movement.

4 - Natural physiology

It’s also worth remembering that horses poo often, anywhere from 6 to 12 times per day. With such frequent elimination, it’s statistically likely that some of those times will line up with when you’re loading the float. The difference is, you’re far more likely to notice it in the confined space of a float than in a paddock.

Although floating-related pooing can’t be eliminated, there are a few things you can do to manage it:

- Allow time before travel. Give your horse a chance to settle and relieve themselves before loading.

Stay calm. Horses pick up on your energy. Arelaxed handler helps reduce their stress.

- Keep your float clean.

Use shavings or rubber mats to make cleaning easier and reduce odour buildup.

- Condition gradually.

The more positive experiences your horse has with the float, the less anxious they’ll become over time.

- Manage travel anxiety with a calming supplement.

Just like humans, sometimes no matter how hard we try, you just can’t shake the nerves. Supplements such as Ranvet’s Calm Paste may help reduce this anxiety in horses in a way that still allows you to compete!

In conclusion, horses may poo on the float due to stress, anticipation, body posture, and simple coincidence.

It’s not necessarily a sign that something is wrong, but rather an expression of equine physiology and behaviour.

Understanding the “why” behind it can help owners manage the mess more patiently, making travel safer and more pleasant for both horse and rider.

The Horse Report

“BYE BYE FLY”

QUEENSLAND ITCH, SWEET ITCH, SUMMER ECZEMA and EQUINE ALLERGIC DERMATITIS are names for distressing skin conditions which affects horses in spring and summer months throughout Australia and around the world.

The usual cause is a hypersensitivity to the bites of ﬂies (in particular sand ﬂies or midges).

While the bite of the ﬂies are an irritation, some horses develop sensitivity to the bite and will rub themselves so much that they cause injury to their skin.

Research shows the cause is an allergic reaction to the chemicals in the saliva of the midges (as with humans).

Not only that, but once or twice a day, stable lies come to the horse, feed vigorously for a minute or two, and then return to the shade to digest their food. These bites can cause intense irritation in some horses. The bites appear as small raised lumps with a central scab.

The effects on the horses can be dramatic. They suffer intense pruritus (itchiness) on the mane, tail, face, ears and back, resulting in biting, rubbing, hair loss, self-trauma and a change of temperament. They become miserable and irritable.

KURITCH has been specially formulated to help assist this problem effectively, in a number of ways:

Firstly, it repels the biting insects using the combination of the natural repellent “Citronella Oil” and a highly effective repellent “DEET”. Secondly, it soothes the irritated areas thus relieving the horse from biting and rubbing, which in turn allows the normal healing process to begin.

It achieves this by the inclusion of the natural antiseptic “Eucalyptus oil” and Camphor oil” which naturally relieves itchy skin.

Also rugging, hooding or stabling your horses between the hours of 4pm – 7am during spring and summer will limit the contact of the ﬂies.

Should your horse already be suffering from the effects of allergic skin dermatitis, ensure you use QUIT ITCH to treat and relieve the effects of insect bites.

Since the 1970’s, QUIT ITCH has been an essential weapon in the ﬁght against skin disorders in horses.

These significant benefits are also enhanced by the “Rain Resistant” and “Low irritant” formula. As it doesn’t contain alcohol (prevalent in most fly sprays) it won’t “sting” the horse. It can also be applied to surface wounds, minor cuts and skin abrasions to help prevent irritation and possible infection by nuisance insects.

Registered by the APVMA in Australia for over 40 years, extensive ﬁeld experience has proven KURITCH to be a most effective solution for both preventing and healing distressing skin conditions caused by biting insects.

As well as KURITCH as a repellent, environmental management will also assist in protecting your horse.

Midges breed near stagnant water. As they don’t ﬂy more than a few hundred metres from their breeding area, housing or paddocking your horses more than 500 metres from those areas will reduce their exposure to the ﬂies.

The Horse Report

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The Horse Report Trainers

The hackamore and the art of its use

By TANJA KRAUS

“I want to ride in a hackamore”.

This is something that I hear a lot from people and it is a path that I wanted to explore many years ago.

Because this is such a complex subject, I am going to try to touch on all the parts of riding in a hackamore.

I am not, what I would consider, an expert in the art of the hackamore.

I do however ride my horses in a hackamore (some would say well) and I start young horses in the hackamore.

As with anything worth doing in horsemanship, the journey as student is lifelong.

Firstly - What is it ?

These days we see a lot of people riding in what they call a "Hackamore".

To clarify, traditionally speaking (and when I say tradition, I mean the history of the hackamore) a hackamore is a complete unit, consisting of - a bosal (rawhide nose piece), a hanger (the bit that runs up over your horse’s poll to hold the bosal on his face, usually leather) and a mecate ( the rein and lead tied onto the bosal, usually mane or tail hair).

Then we have the option of a fiadore which is an additional piece, helping to hold the hang of the bosal - not all hackamores have a fiadore.

Other items that some people refer to as hackamores aremechanical hackamores (this is a leverage device and not in anyway the same as a true hackamore), and a rope halter and rein set tied as a "hackamore"this I refer to as simply riding in a halter, or a rope hackamore. These can be a cheap and simple way to establish whether you and your horse like riding without a bit.

I do recommend to all of my students however, if they intend on continuing the hackamore journey, they should invest in an actual hackamore.

Rope does not provide the same feel, timing or balance as a traditional setup does.

Second - why ?

I ask why you want to try riding in a hackamore.

Alot of the time, the answer is to go "bitless" because it is "kinder to the horse".

This is a common misconception. You can do as much damage/cause as much pain to a horse physically with a hackamore (or any headgear) as with a bit - the nose and face is

extremely sensitive with many nerve endings.

If your reasoning is kindness, then fix your hands.

In addition, you can cause distress to a horse if you do not know how to ride in a hackamore correctly.

Take a horse that has only known a snaffle bit for his riding life, then think about this horse having a new piece of equipment put on, and his rider - who has only known a snaffle bit for their riding life, hops on and expects to ride the same way they do with the snaffle (for those reading this article who are educated in how the snaffle works and how the hackamore works.

I’m not going to draw the comparisons here, (that would be an article within itself) the horse experiences something he doesn't understand and becomes worried.

The rider in turn gets worried, and pulls harder, causing the horse further distress.

The advice I give to anyone wanting to ride in a hackamorelearn how to ride in a hackamore - its not just a matter of putting one on.

Even if your horse loves the hackamore, if you do not have the knowledge base, you will potentially dull out his face, cause him to lean into your hands, and have an entirely new set of problems on your horse. Riding with and using the hackamore is an art within itself - if you want to do it, get knowledge, and please, choose someone who has a good, long term knowledge of the traditions and history, not someone who has either used a hackamore for showing (this is a completely different approach), or, someone who has been an 'enthusiast' for a couple of years.

** Not putting down enthusiasts, we all start somewhere, but they shouldn't be then instructing on the use of it when they have ridden one horse in a hackamore for a short time.

Now that we have that out of the way - the basics; Different materials.

Let's start with the bosal. You can find bosal made with different materials such as rawhide or kangaroo leather, a different amount of plaits, different types of core, and different thickness.

Providing your bosal is made from rawhide / leather, the material is personal choice.

Size

We recommend that you begin in a 5/8 bosal - this is the thickness of the bosal itself.

We recommend this as a starting point, some horses may need to go to a heavier bosal, some horses may need to go a little lighter (generally speaking all horses will start in a 5/8, some horses with a finer Arabian type head may go into the 1/2 inch).

If you intend to stay in a hackamore (not proceed into a bridle) your horse can stay in a 5/8 for his riding life.

If you are following the tradition towards the two rein, you will be training your way to a 1/2 inch and then into a 3/8ths for your two rein setup.

If you are intending to stay in the hackamore, but would like to aim towards a smaller size bosal, you must ensure that your horse is consistently responsive at all gaits in the bigger bosal before putting him into a smaller piece.

There are different interior lengths in bosals.

 Continued page 35

www.tanjakraushorsemanship.com

There’s plenty to consider before riding in a hackmore.

The Horse Report

Types, fitting and using the hackamore

 From page 34

Don't forget when measuring that you will need to put wraps in your mecate so leave room.

Core

Trainers

There are different cores in your bosal. We recommend a rawhide core. Arope or steel core will not give the feel, timing or balance of a rawhide core.

Plait

More plait doesn't always mean better. Acheaply made multiple plait bosal won’t offer the same feel as a well-made lower plait bosal. Riding in a hackamore is an art and so is making them.

Reins / Mecate

There are multiple choices for your mecate - alpaca hair, horse hair (mane or tail), parachute cord, yacht braid.

I started off with a preference to alpaca hair, and my partner prefers horse hair as it has more feel than the alpaca. I now also use horse hair.

The prickly bits on the mecate give a signal to your horse before the rein even touches his neck, makes for a soft horse. I believe that mecate are as individual as the clouds in the skyyou don't find two that are the same (in hair - rope is fairly consistent).

Go feeling - and it’s not only about the feel of the rein in your hand, its the weight of the rein, and the fall of the rein, its what you can feel through the rein, and what your horse can feel from you.

You will need to try a few before you know what you and your horse like. Your mecate should be the same thickness as your bosal.

Braiding mecate is an artform (seeing the pattern in this style of horsemanship?), you will find multiple plaited mecate reins as beautiful as the paintings in a

museum.

Hanger

Your hanger is the (usually) leather strap that runs from one side of your bosal to the other, holds your bosal in place around your horse’s nose. It has some adjustment, and you have an option to have a browband if you are going to complete your hackamore with a fiadore.

Fiadore

Your fiadore traditionally was made up of horse hair or twine, in more modern rigs they typically thin parachute cord, or leather.

Your fiadore completes your hackamore with a throat latch and holds the bosal in a constant hanging balance (you must have a brow-band for your fiadore to run through). You will often see 'arena riders' riding without a fiadore, but if a horse is going to work either out on the ranch or the trail, a fiadore is pretty standard.

Fitting

When it comes to your and your horses hackamore journey, and

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into the spade bit - it is not "one size fits all".

When starting out, be prepared to purchase and try multiple types of bosal, mecate, and eventually, bit (if you choose to go all the way to riding in a bridle spade).

Finally, the hackamore is a wonderful way of riding your horse, but don't choose to ride in the hackamore simply because you are 'anti bit' - the tradition and journey is a lot deeper than that.

Uneducated hands can do plenty of damage in a snaffle, bridle, or in a hackamore - the difference is, in the hackamore you can see after your ride, rub marks or grazing if you have been a little hard - in the snaffle bit this damage is hidden in the mouth.

If this is something you are wanting to pursue, please find a coach or mentor that can teach you how to ride in the hackamore correctly.

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Email: admin@horseshelpinghumansaustralia.com Ph : 0416 146 396 www.horseshelpinghumansaustralia.com

The Horse Report

Flexi-Fibre®

Flexi-Fibre

Fibre provides root structure, similar to grass roots in turf, to existing or new sand-based riding surfaces. Fibre improves the surface stability, therefore the horse will work ‘on top’ of the surface rather than ‘through’ it.

Our Flexi Fibre is a mixture of polypropylene, polyester and nylon Fibres which are the base material to all of our surfaces worldwide and similar to all other top surface suppliers. We

Australian conditions and manufacture here in Australia, enabling us to produce at very competitive rates.

• Improves preformance

• Improves stability of new or existing sand surfaces

• Enhances drainage

• Long lasting

The Horse Report International equestrian opportunities announced

By EQUESTRIAN AUSTRALIA

Eventing U25 World Championships at Millstreet

Expressions of Interest are sought for combinations to represent Australia at the Eventing U25 World Championships at Millstreet, Ireland, 21-26 July 2026.

There will be an initial online meeting on Monday, 23 February at 6pm AEDST to discuss the event and an opportunity to ask questions prior to submitting an official EOI when it becomes available.

Combinations must be qualified to compete at CCI4*-S and riders must be aged between the year in which they turn 16 and the year in which they turn 25.

Please email catherine.davies@equestrian.org.au to register your interest to attend the meeting and a meeting link will be forwarded. You may nominate one extra person to be present in the meeting (eg: parent, coach).

CSIO4* Wellington Nations Cup Squad announced

Equestrian Australia is pleased to announce the Australian squad for the CSIO4* Wellington Nations Cup, to be held in Wellington, Florida (USA) from 24 February to 1 March 2026.

The selected combinations are:

Lauren Balcomb with Verdini d’Houtveld Z, Thaisa Erwin with Hialita B / Koberlina TN, Hilary Scott with Lola, Jamie WinningKermond with Tulara WAT Colblensky, Matt Williams with For George and Maleah Lang-McMahon with Elalisa.

Equestrian Australia congratulates all athletes, owners, and connections of the selected horses on this achievement and thank them for their ongoing commitment to the Australian Jumping program.

EAwishes the team the very best of luck as they represent Australia in Wellington.

Young Rider Trans-Tasman Test

The 2026 Young Rider Trans-Tasman Test wrapped up in spectacular fashion after three days of closely fought competition between Australia and New Zealand.

This year’s event carried an added layer of challenge following a late change of venue, with the Test relocated to the New Zealand National Championships in Christchurch.

Day One saw both nations deliver impressive rounds, but it was Team Australia who held the upper hand finishing on 12 faults compared to New Zealand’s 20.

On Day Two, the teams swapped horses, a hallmark of the Trans-Tasman Test format that promotes adaptability and horsemanship. In this leg, New Zealand finished on top with just 4 faults across two rounds, while Australia finished on 8 faults.

Day Three delivered a nail-biting finish. Both teams posted 8 faults overall after two rounds, forcing a jump-off to decide the Test winner. New Zealand’s Samantha-Lee Wakeling, riding Krystal Clear I, produced an exceptional clear in 33.93 seconds to secure victory for the Kiwi team by just 0.73 of a second.

Equestrian Australia congratulates the Australian riders Cody Ticknell, Molly Mooney, Sienna Holdsworth-Rose and Tanner Robinson on their performances throughout the competition.

Aheartfelt thank you goes to all the owners who generously provided horses, making the event possible.

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 Less stress related behaviour, less fatigue, less anxiety

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The Horse Report Abu Dhabi Turf Club unveils Gold Cup trophy

The Abu Dhabi Turf Club has unveiled the official Abu Dhabi Gold Cup powered by ADNOC trophy, designed and crafted by Garrard, the historic British jeweller renowned for creating some of the world's most iconic sporting trophies.

The US $1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup powered by ADNOC ran at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club Racecourse on Saturday, 7 February 2026, during the venue's 50th anniversary year.

The trophy was developed over several months in close collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Turf Club, drawing on both local heritage and traditional craftsmanship.

Central to the design are Ghaf tree leavesthe national tree of the UAE - symbolising resilience, stability, and peace.

These elements form the handles and finial of the Cup, creating a distinctive and balanced silhouette.

The outline of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club racecourse is positioned at the centre of the trophy, framing the engraved Abu Dhabi Gold Cup name.

Traditional regional weaving patterns feature around the middle and upper sections, while a bespoke horseshoe monogram at the base, formed from interlocking horseshoes, reflects the United Arab Emirates' equestrian heritage.

The overall design is inspired by Arabian architecture and elegance.

The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup powered by ADNOC headlined a seven-race programme featuring Group and Listed contests for both Thoroughbreds and Purebred Arabians, further reinforcing the Abu Dhabi Turf Club's growing presence on the international racing calendar.

Victory in the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup powered by ADNOC will also secure a guaranteed place in the Grade 1 Old Forester Bourbon Turf Classic at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby Day, Saturday 2 May 2026, enhancing the race's global appeal.

The Abu Dhabi Turf Club

Established in 1976 through the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Turf Club

has transformed from an equine sanctuary into a premier destination for racing excellence.

Following extensive renovations in 2023, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE and President of ADTC, the club now features a championship turf racecourse, grandstand with seating for 10,000 guests, exclusive VIP suites, and a newly renovated hospitality garden.

As a world-class venue for both national and international races, ADTC hosts a vibrant calendar of racing events from October through April, attracting global owners, trainers, jockeys, and spectators. Seasonal highlights include the prestigious President's Cup and other Group 1 races.

The club hosts multiple Group 1 races annually and continues to play a vital role in the development of both thoroughbred and Arabian horse racing in the region.

While 2025 marks the inaugural year under the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup name, this event is a permanent addition to the Club's seasonal calendar and heritage.

About Garrard

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Adorning royalty and global icons, Garrard's creative, contemporary jewels showcase its long-standing passion and expertise in coloured gemstones, and the outstanding design and craftsmanship that continue to set the benchmark for British luxury.

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The Horse Report

Are you ready for Pony Club

The 2026 Pony Club season has officially started. The organising of rally days, clinics, camps and competitions are well under way. Are you ready for Pony Club - ready for funfilled rally days learning and skill building, making new friendships, building confidence and of course enjoying plenty of time in the saddle with your friends.

How to sign up:

All registrations are done online via JustGo.

Simply head to www.pca.justgo.com/Account.mvc/SignIn

• Log in or create an account

• Select your Pony Club and membership

• Follow the prompts to complete your registration

Reach out to your local Pony Club, they’ll be more than happy to help you get started and answer any questions. Find your local club here: www.ponyclubnsw.org.au/clubs/clubs-map/

Not sure what gear is allowed?

You can find all the details in the National Gear Rules, check them out via the link below so you’re rally-ready www.ponyclubaustralia.com.au/resource-hub/competition/

For clubs needing new uniforms or promotional gear visit www.williamson.com.au

Looking for a pony club event in the school holidays why not enroll for a Murwillumbah Pony Club camp. The Murwillumbah club runs a camp in each school holidays. The camps are open to all ages including little lead line riders, junior and senior and associate riders and adult riders so that mums dads and kids can all enjoy pony club and all it offers together. They offer great facilities, stables, camping, canteen, new dressage arenas, jumping and sporting equipment, qualified instructors, friendly helpful members. Based out of the Murwillumbah Showgrounds, Queensland Road, Murwillumbah. For further information on the Murwillumbah events, contact Paula on 0413 733 294.

Murwillumbah

HOLIDAY CAMPS

www.pcajustgo.com

The Horse Report

RIDING PONY QLD OFFERS TWO SHOWS

The RPSBS Queensland Committee will again hold two shows in 2026. The first being The 2026 Queensland Riding Pony of the Year show to be held at Park Ridge Pony Club Grounds on Sunday, 24 May.

This show offers a great program that includes classes for led and ridden Show Pony, Show Hunter and Overheight exhibits, handler, rider, leading rein, first ridden, home produced and double registered exhibits.

Trophies rugs and garlands will be awarded for all supremes along with awards for most Successful Exhibitor and Breeder.

The second show is the 2026 Queensland Riding Pony Pageant to be held on Sunday 8 November ( venue yet to be decided) offering another great program that includes Yearling, two-year-old and three-year-old Sweepstakes Futurities with cash prize pools.

Senior led and ridden program for Show Pony, Show Hunter and Overheight exhibits. Progeny and exhibitor group classes and dualregistration led and ridden classes. Programs will be available at www.rpsbs.com.au/qld/qld-events/ For enquiries contact rpsbsqld@outlook.com

2026

Judges Seminar

Show Horse Queensland will be hosting an EAJudges Seminar open to anyone interested in the discipline of Show Horse

2026 QLD RIDINGPONY OFTHE YEAR

SUNDAY24 MAY Park Ridge Pony Club Grounds

Great program that includes led and ridden Show Pony, Show Hunter and Overheight exhibits, handler, rider, leading rein, first ridden, home produced & double registered classes TROPHIES RUGS AND GARLANDS FOR ALL SUPREMES AWARDS FOR MOST SUCCESSFUL EXHIBITOR & BREEDER

AGM - MAY 28

Nominations for Committee positions via www.rpsbs.com.au

2026 RIDINGPONYPAGEANT

SUNDAY8 NOVEMBER

Venue TBC

Yearling, 2 year old and 3 year old Sweepstakes Futurities with cash prize pools

Senior led and ridden program for Show Pony, Show Hunter and Overheight exhibits

The Horse Report

GLENARTHON STOCKMANS CHALLENGE

The 2026 Glenarthon Stockmans challenges will be held at Woodenbong Showgrounds on the weekend of July 4 & 5 at Woodenbong showgrounds

There is a lot on offer this year not only for the Open rider but for everyone. They will be running11 challenges and the challenges are open to all breeds not just Australian Stock Horses.

Events include the Tiny Tots Challenge, Mini Challenge, Junior Challenge, Youth Challenge , Encouragement and Rookie Challenges and Challenges for 2, 3 and 4 year old horses.

Plus the feature event the Open challenge Winner of this years challenges will recieves prize money , rugs and great prizes thanks to the wonderful sponsors.

There will be an auction on saturday night to raise money for Neimann Pick Disease awareness and they are still looking for donations for the fundraising auction.

For further information contact the Event Co Ordinator: Colleen McQueen 0429 334 041 Email glenarthonstockhorses@hotmail.com

Currumbin District Horse Club

All breeds T Shirt hack show Sunday 29 March No Plaiting No Jackets www.nominate.com.au

Enquiries - cdhclub@gmail.com

Show Horse Queensland

March 4

Judges seminar via zoom - register via www.nominate.com.au

March 8

EQ Cup - Park Ridge

April 26

Anzac Show - Park Ridge

June 7

Newcomer Show - Park Ridge

July 5

Winter show - Park Ridge

September 4-6

EQ HOTY & Childs HOTY - QSEC

October 10

Riders Clinic - Park Ridge

October 11

Youth Show - Park Ridge

For measuring enquiries

Ph Gail Iskra 0407 748 763 email gailiskra@bigpond.com

www.qld.equestrian.org.au

Night 3rd

AUCTION for Neimann Pick Disease In honour of Tommy Donations

The Horse Report

Women in Racing celebrated at MM

Provided by RANVET

Once upon a time the racing industry was a male dominated world, not many women held notable positions in the industry, especially any that carried any authority or decision making. If you look now, things have changed. Women can be found not only working in every area of the industry, but in charge of those areas and making a huge difference with their knowledge and ideas.

Recently Women in Racing were celebrated at the Magic Millions where there were inductees to the Hall of Fame, as well as the announcement of the National Racing Woman of the Year and the State Winners.

Take a look at the ways in which women are involved in the modern racing industry.

Sales – Sales companies such as Magic Millions and Inglis are doing wonderful things for the industry and not by just selling livestock.

The Magic Millions Yearling Sales in January are now not just about the horses being offered but is a whole showcase; racing, show jumping, polo, award dinners and beach barrier draws are just a few of the things on offer over the week.

There are Women in Racing incentives including bonus prize money for horses owned solely by women, as well as the annual Women in Racing Awards recognizing amazing leaders nationwide. All this is the brainchild of Magic Million co-owner Katie Page.

Trainers – It’s hard to believe, but not so long ago it was unusual for a trainer to be a woman. Now if you look through the race guide, women as trainers are listed everywhere, they are winning the major races and being role models for all the future female trainers coming

along behind them.

Jockeys – You don’t have to look far to find successful female jockeys. One of the leading jockeys in Melbourne, and now Melbourne Cup winner, is Jamie Melham (Kah). There are women riding in races across the country, with some races even hosting as many female riders as male. Not to mention, there are many race days where females dominate the program taking home the wins right across the board, if not the full race card.

Commentators – If you happen to be watching any of the televised vision of racing on a Saturday you will notice that women are domi-

nating in that area as well. More than 50% of the commentators are female and have a wonderful knowledge of the sport, from hosting, to the mounting yard commentary, and post-race interviews.

Executives – Women now hold many varied positions on many of the nation’s racing committees. Once excluded, they are now helping to make decisions that shape how Australian racing is today.

Owners and breeders – Many of the horses you see running in races around Australia are owned, part owned or even bred by women. All women syndications are increasingly popular, particularly with prize money bonuses on offer.

These are just a few of the positions and jobs in the racing industry filled by women, but the options extend much further and there is truly something for everyone including:

Track riders

Stable management

Forepersons/assistant trainers

Strappers/stable hands

Committee members

Sales company staff

Stud management

Agistment/Pre-training/Breaking in Yearling sales staff

Float and truck drivers

Race day officials

Veterinarians

Health and Nutrition advisors

Farriers

If you have a passion for the racing industry there is certainly a job that will suit you and your skills, with gender no longer the barrier it once was.

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DR KATHERINE DODD BVSc/BVetBiol. BAppSc (Eq.)

DR KATRINASWIFT BVSc/BVetBiol. BIntBus

Email:byronbayhorsevet@gmail.com

Website: wwwbyronbayequinepractice.com.au

20 years experience Servicing SE Qld

Services Andrew Williamson - 0428 488 838

A record of movement (ROM) must be submitted prior to entry into NSW - https://appcattletick.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au

Resources: : NSW DPI Biosecurity https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/managing-biosecurity/forms

NSW DPI cattle tick record of movement https://app-cattletick.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au

NSW legislation www.legislation.nsw.gov.au

QLD cattle tick zones & accredited certifiers for cattle tick https://www.business.qld.gov.au/

We recommend speaking with one of our authorised officers on 0429 185 136 or email cattletick@dpi.nsw.gov.ua prior to bringing animals into NSW.

Department of Regional NSW