Equestrian Victoria and the Organising Committee of the Australian Youth Dressage Championships have announced that the EBM Group will be the Naming Rights Sponsor for the 2026 event.
EBM Group – who is also the naming rights sponsor for Willinga Park’s Dressage by Sea in February – provides specialised insurance broking solutions and risk management services to businesses and individuals across Australia. EBM Group’s commitment goes beyond business. It is about showing up, standing beside the equestrian community, and celebrating the strength and spirit that defines the equestrian community.
Representing the Organising Committee, Jan Smith commented: “We are very grateful to EBM Group for their support and their belief that young riders are the future of our sport.”
“We are thrilled to sponsor the 2026 Australian Youth Dressage Championships,” says Sharon Fox-Slater, Managing Director at EBM Group. “Supporting the equestrian community is something we are truly passionate about. This community is full of hardworking, dedicated individuals, qualities that resonate strongly with our own team culture. As an insurance, broking, and risk management organisation, we understand the unique needs of those in the equine industry and are proud to help riders, owners, and businesses protect what matters most. This partnership reflects our commitment to aligning with communities that share our values of resilience and excellence.”
Equestrian Victoria will conduct the Championships on behalf of Equestrian Australia, and they will be run at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre from 22-25 January. The event will feature a wide range of official classes from Preliminary level to Grand Prix including a full suite of Para Equestrian tests. The event pioneered the running of the FEI classes for Children, Pony, Junior and Young Riders at national level, giving young riders the opportunity to become familiar with the levels before graduating to classes held at international level (CDI).
As well as the full range of official classes there will be Championships for Interschool and Participation riders at grass roots entry level. The event will be supported by a vibrant trade village, education and social events.
Entries close 29 December and all details available on the event website, www.vydc.org.au.
Source: VYDC/Australian Youth Dressage Championships press release, edited by Equestrian Life.
