In this issue
When filmmakers Sean O’Reilly and Sophy Crane came across Yawardani Jan-ga, an equine assisted learning program founded by Professor Juli Coffin, they knew it was a story the world should know about. A universal narrative of human and animal connection told through a uniquely Australian lens, they are now aiming to guide this story from Western Australia’s Kimberley to the bright lights of world’s top film festivals.
Since arriving in Australia, flashy gelding Estupendo has gone from strength to strength for owner Vivien Lipshut and rider David McKinnon. More than just a pretty face, ‘Esto’ is now excelling at Grand Prix level and vying for the opportunity to compete on the world stage.
Growing up surrounded by professional show jumpers, Sarah McMillan has been involved in the industry all her life. While completing school and a law degree whilst balancing her riding career was a challenge at the time, the now 31-year-old values the perspective her education has afforded her – and in turn, she’s having more fun than ever with her talented equine team.
Equestrian Australia needs to clearly spell out its vision, costs and course of action for its takeover of state and territory bodies if it wants its national restructuring to succeed. Most importantly, this vision needs to benefit all EA members.
A well-known name on the show horse circuit, off-the-track Thoroughbred St Andrews was the horse of a lifetime for Natalie McKay. Now, Andy is proving to be that one-in-a-million horse all over again for 14-year-old Sienna Wright.
Let's be real. Balancing uni life, a part-time job, and equestrian dreams can feel like mission impossible. But here's the good news: with some savvy planning and smart choices, you can make it work without living on two-minute noodles forever!
Maverick Miles has had a stellar year in the competition arena with his equine partner Verdasco. With a World Cup debut earlier this year and a recent NSW Senior State Title, this partnership is on the rise. We caught up with Maverick to learn more about his journey, and of course, his relationship with Verdasco.
Since 2019, Pony Club Australia’s Centre Membership has been breaking down barriers for those who don’t have a horse or pony of their own. Facilitated via Accredited Centres such as Kurshonbrooke Lodge, it’s the perfect introduction to equestrian sport and gives young riders the skills they need to ride and care for horses safely and effectively.
Attracted to the gelding’s stature and kind eye, Deirdre Hartog always hoped Billionaire NZPH would develop a jump to match. Ten years on and he’s carried Phillip Lever to an Australian Senior Championship title; now the sky’s the limit.
Of all the Grand Prix movements, passage may be one of the trickiest to learn for both horse and rider. Three top trainers discuss their methods, and all agree on one simple principle: it takes time.
His name may be ordinary but as a person he is exceptional. In his 48 years, Greg Smith has undertaken a raft of diverse challenges – and he has thrived.
Sedation is a common procedure in the equine world and as vets, we would be lost without having safe, reliable and easily administered drugs to use. We use sedation to quiet the horse, which allows us to perform a huge variety of procedures, reducing the risk to horse and human and allowing minimal interference so a procedure can be performed quickly and efficiently.
Three thoroughbred foals are born on the same night in Australia. This is the story of their very different journeys to find a place in life.