Galston Equestrian Club - Something for Everyone!

Our first dressage competition of the year, the Members Only Dressage Day on 28th Feb., was very successful, with riders enjoying the relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Judges Pam Dalrymple, Sue Lewis and Nicole Pullen did a sterling job, and Horseland and Coprice were most generous with the prizes as usual. Thanks to all the volunteers for their invaluable help and to Liz Jones for organizing another well-run day. Our new canteen menu was popular and we look forward to more delicious, healthy food in the future, thanks to Lynne Livngstone.

On 13th March, we ran a show jumping clinic with Keira Byrnes (a local NCAS level 1 coach who competed up to 4 star level at the Adelaide 3 Day International) teaching students. There were classes from 40-50cms, 50-65cms, 70-85cms, and 90cms, and enthusiastic jumpers were put through their paces and increased their knowledge while having fun. The feedback was excellent with happy jumpers enquiring when would we be organizing the next one!

In another arena, we were lucky to have a Natural Horsemanship demonstration by Neil Pye, Australia’s most senior Parelli instructor, which was very informative, and gave the crowd of spectators much to think about in the way they communicate and understand their horses.

Our next event will be a Dressage Protocol Day on 2nd April, when riders will have a wonderful opportunity to ride the dressage test of their choice and get instant feedback and instruction. Our judges, Gisela Nilsson-Harding (level A judge, mentor, judge educator and EA young horse judge) and Pam Dalrymple (a level B judge who has had competition horses at the highest level) are both exceptionally experienced and keen to help riders improve their scores. This is perfect timing as our next dressage competition will be our first Open (Official) Dressage Competition on 24th April.

In the meantime, we have Clear Round Show Jumping on Sunday 10th April, and a talk by well-known Dr John Kohnke at the Galston Club at 7.00pm on Thursday 21 April, which is free to all interested equine enthusiasts. Come along and have dinner and a drink with us beforehand! On Saturday 30th April, we are having St Johns non-accredited Sporty Injury training in Galston – very useful for anyone attending horse events. Check our website or Facebook for more information on all these events.

We are very happy to announce that we have now over 100 members, exceeding the total membership of 2015, so our new committee providing the club members with what they want is proving successful. Join now before we have to cap our membership!