By EQ Life Staff

There is no disputing that a local saddlery store is an important part of most horse owner’s support system - as a hub of information, as the place to ask for advice, to source effective and safe products for day-to-day horse care, giving access to the appropriate equipment for training and preparing horses for pleasure riding, equestrian sport, racing and breeding … or just to keep the family pet healthy and happy.

With 41 independently owned stores throughout Australia, Saddleworld is more than just a place to shop. Storeowners and staff are committed to their customers and involved with local riders, owners, horse events and related activities.

Equestrian Life was delighted to have the opportunity to catch up with Natalie McGuinness, a partner in the family owned Saddleworld Ballarat (Victoria) and find out a little more about a store that takes pride in providing an extra level of customer service. The management practises ensure that the store is well stocked with an extensive range of products that reflect the wide variety of horse sport represented by their customers … and for making a significant contribution to the local horse community.

Natalie explained that she and sister-in-law Kylie Dooley took on the store almost three years ago as a way to combine their unique personal skills. They aimed to build the business into a “best practices” retail outlet and Natalie reflects, “It was a business perfectly suited to Kylie and myself, as both of our families were involved in racing and Kylie has spent a lifetime riding and showing horses - we both understand the passion. Kylie has the hands-on horse knowledge and my business skills ensure that we run the store well and offer an exceptional product range. 

Equestrian Life:  Can you tell us a little about your store?

Saddleworld Ballarat: We bought a business that had been established for 15 years and then looked at the things that we felt could be improved. Kylie has some very good ideas based on her hands-on involvement and I ensure that the back-end systems and service completes our commitment to excellence in retailing.

Equestrian Life:  Do you have other people on your staff?

Saddleworld Ballarat: Yes, we have 5 people involved in the store including some part timers who help out in our busy hours.  We are very fortunate to have knowledgeable and committed people who love horses and saddlery, as well as being part of the team here at Saddleworld Ballarat.

Equestrian Life: Do you have a favourite product in the store?

Saddleworld Ballarat: Oh … that is not so easy to say!  I feel that every time you ask, I would give a different answer.  We love to sell items that are exactly what our customers are looking for … and then get feedback that the product did the job – that is our ” favourite” product!

Equestrian Life: Does Saddleworld Ballarat have any sponsored riders?

Saddleworld Ballarat: We certainly do, and supporting their activities is a strong part of our commitment to equestrian sport.  We sponsor the talented young dressage rider Jordan Smith and FEI dressage star Sue Nevitt. Eventer Caitlin McNabb is one of ours, as too our eventing/ballerina, Lucinda Doodt. A popular member of the team is the delightful young show rider Charlee Cartledge. All of our sponsored riders have a strong following and this gives us wide exposure to the local community – they all work hard to ensure that we are recognised for our contribution – a real win/win for all concerned.

Equestrian Life: Do you have any “specials” coming up?

Saddleworld Ballarat:  There is always something on special and the Saddleworld Support Centre helps to keep our product range interesting and attractive, with seasonal and periodic specials.  But I guess our focus will be our 3^rd birthday celebration, which will be in mid November, when everything in the store will carry a 20% discount.  We are looking forward to catching up with customers and new friends for this exciting milestone.  Watch our Facebook page for details.

Equestrian Life: Is there any special memorable moment for Saddleworld Ballarat?

Saddleworld Ballarat: Let me think!  We have had many special moments, but I guess the most memorable and special was our first birthday, when Kylie and I could look back and reflect on what we had achieved … and look forward to consider what more could be done! This was a special time – we loved it! 

Equestrian Life: Is there anything else you would like people to know about your store?

Saddleworld Ballarat: Yes, definitely … I would like to say that we have responded to the needs of our customers and provide a complete rug repair and rug washing service. This care allows people to maximise the years of service from their horse rugs. Our repair service extends to all sorts of canvas and leather goods, including trampolines, handbags and we recently repaired an older leather dog muzzle – it will give another lifetime of service now!  We love to get involved and this part of our business gives us the perfect opportunity.

Equestrian Life:  What are your trading hours?

Saddleworld Ballarat:  We are open at 37 Armstrong Street North, Ballarat, from 9 – 5.30 Monday to Friday and 9 to 1 on Saturday.  Our phone number is (03) 5334 4255, Fax: (03) 5334 4356 and e-mail  ballaratsaddleworld@bigpond.com

Equestrian Life:  Can people contact you any other way? 

Saddleworld Ballarat:  We have an active information exchange on our Facebook page.  We keep our customers, prospective customers, riders and supporters in the loop through this medium and welcome LIKES to our page, so that people join our community and know what we are planning. We promote special and sales and look forward to getting more Facebook friends.

Equestrian Life:  Thankyou, it is great to share a success story.

Saddleworld Ballarat: Thankyou to Equestrian Life for telling our story, we look forward to a bright and happy future. We also thank our customers and supporters for their role in our success.