“Equestrian Australia is aware of footage posted on social media showing a person repeatedly whipping a horse. We have also received a formal complaint about the matter,” reads a statement published by Equestrian Australia on 12 June.
“Equestrian Australia is extremely alarmed and concerned by the treatment of the horse shown in this footage.
“Equestrian Australia’s Complaints, Disputes and Discipline Policy includes high standards to protect all participants and their horses against any adverse physical, social, and emotional conditions during all EA endorsed equestrian activities that are conducted under the auspices of EA or by any EA affiliate.
“We also have a Code of Conduct which requires participants to adhere to the FEI code of conduct for the welfare of the horse.
“The person depicted in the video is a member of Equestrian Australia.
“Equestrian Australia has this afternoon imposed a provisional suspension of this person’s membership of Equestrian Australia and their rights, privileges and benefits associated with their membership.
“This means they may take no part in competitions or events as competitor or Official or in the organisation of, or participation in, any event under the jurisdiction of Equestrian Australia.
“The suspension will remain in place pending a thorough investigation of this matter by Equestrian Australia’s Integrity Unit.
“Equestrian Australian takes matters of animal welfare very seriously. Contrary to commentary on YouTube, we have no information to suggest Equestrian Australia management asked for the footage of this incident to be removed.”
The FEI also released a statement on 12 June: “The FEI is aware of the footage published on social media and is taking it very seriously. We are liaising with Equestrian Australia and looking into this incident.
“Equestrian Australia has imposed a provisional suspension against the athlete Heath Ryan (AUS) and the FEI has recognised and implemented it at FEI level as of 12 June 2025. It is visible in the FEI database here.”
