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Autumn has arrived with ideal riding weather — a welcome change after March’s heat and humidity and record rainfall that affected many of our members across NSW.
Despite challenging weather so far, 2025 is already proving to be a big year for equestrian sport in NSW. From GrassRoots to elite, riders and volunteers alike have been out in force, making events happen across the state — all thanks to the tireless efforts of our dedicated organising committees.
Congratulations goes to the teams behind the following recent events:
- Dressage NSW February Supersize Judges Clinic
- Willinga Park CDI
- Jumping NSW Summer Show
- Tamworth International Eventing including the “Introduction to Eventing Officiating” clinic run by Eventing NSW.
- Far South Coast Dressage Club Equestrian Experiences Day
- Southern Cross Event Hire Show Horse Championships
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Message from the ENSW Board
Following recent correspondence and developments at the national level, and in conjunction with other State Boards, the Equestrian NSW Board remains firmly committed to working with the Board of Equestrian Australia to develop a sustainable and effective model for the future of our sport. We continue to seek a meeting with the EA Board—facilitated by the Australian Sports Commission—to determine a constructive pathway forward that reflects the needs of all members. We acknowledge the recent resignation of the Chair of the EA Board and thank her for her service and contribution to the sport.
The Equestrian NSW Board supports the development of a more streamlined, effective, and efficient national structure. To ensure we are prepared for meaningful reform, we have engaged with the Equestrian Australia Company Secretary to better understand the constitutional changes that may be required. The Board looks forward to representing the needs of NSW members in a genuine and collaborative consultation process as we work towards building a stronger and more unified future for equestrian sport.
We are here to support our NSW members and will continue to advocate strongly on your behalf. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to watch the latest update from our Chair, Amy Eggleton, here: https://youtu.be/uWDfZQxWGY0
For any questions, please email board@ensw.org.au
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Equestrian NSW Strategic Plan
A Roadmap for a Stronger Future
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The Equestrian NSW Board, Committees and Staff are bringing the bold 2025–2030 Strategic Plan to life — a roadmap to protect the integrity and future of equestrian sport in NSW.
These six key priorities guides how we invest and focus our efforts to deliver meaningful impact for members, clubs and the sport’s long-term growth.
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The Strategic Plan six key priorities
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1
Building and supporting a healthy pipeline of engaged Officials and Volunteers.
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2
Strengthening Clubs and Disciplines with expert advice, resources and responsive support.
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3
Ensuring access to safe, high-quality Facilities across NSW.
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4
Creating clear Pathways for participation and development for all equestrians.
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5
Promoting best-practice Horse Welfare and strengthening our Social License to operate.
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6
Raising the profile of Equestrian NSW as the trusted voice and leader of our sport.
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Investing in the future of our sport
Equestrian NSW is backing the delivery of the Strategic Plan with significant investment in the current financial year:
– Officials Education: $105,000
– Discipline Funding (exc officials’ education): $457,000
– Club Grants (Safety and Equestrian Experiences Days): $50,000
– Education and Pathways Programs: $90,000
– Coach Education: $20,000
The Board is currently reviewing how any additional ENSW financial reserves can be best deployed to further accelerate delivery of the Strategic Plan overthe next three years.
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We continue to work collaboratively with EA and the other States looking for ways to connect strategies, build efficiencies and support reform ideas.
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Cross-Discipline Forum 2025
On 10 May, the Cross-Discipline Forum took place, bringing all discipline committees together to share resources, align on best practice, and learn how to operate effectively and legally. It also offered insights into the Whole of Sport Pathways Project.
Strategic Plan Areas: Strong Profile Officials and Volunteers Clubs and Disciplines
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Pathways Project
We welcome Meg Baldock – Pathways Officer, who’s position has been funded by the NSW Office of Sport grant. The Education Manager and new Pathways Officer will collaborate with all disciplines to create a best-practice pathways program for equestrians, from foundation to elite levels. Guided by Australian Sports Commission standards, the program will align with the Equestrian Australia High Performance Project and incorporate athlete wellbeing, horse welfare, and existing education programs.
Strategic Plan Areas: Pathways Clubs and Disciplines Strong Profile
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Equestrian Experiences Days
An initiative of the Amateur Equestrian Committee, Equestrian Experience Days are being hosted by ENSW-affiliated clubs across NSW. These fun, inclusive events give members and local equestrians a chance to connect, try new activities, and enjoy a social day out with their horses. With a focus on regional participation, ENSW is providing funding and merchandise, with additional funding from the NSW Office of Sport.
Strategic Plan Areas: Pathways Clubs and DisciplinesStrong Profile
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Coaching Development Day
On 18 June, the Equestrian NSW Coaching Committee will host its fourth annual Coach Development Day at SIEC, alongside the Hawkesbury Dressage Club Festival. The day will focus on building critical thinking and problem-solving skills in coaches and is free for all EA-accredited coaches and officials.
Strategic Plan Areas: Pathways Officials & VolunteersSocial License Strong Profile
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Facilities
Equestrian NSW will soon contact clubs to complete a survey about their grounds. The aim is to map club facilities, assess their suitability for growth, and identify where additional support is needed.
ENSW has also been working closely with a dedicated volunteer group to advocate for the retention of the Clarendon Dressage Grounds at the Hawkesbury Showground — a vital piece of equestrian infrastructure built over 35 years with contributions from the equestrian community. Protecting and preserving facilities like Clarendon is crucial to the future of equestrian sport in NSW.
Strategic Plan Areas: Facilities
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Club Support
ENSW-affiliated clubs are at the heart of equestrian sport in NSW. In 2025, ENSW is supporting clubs with education and funding initiatives, including Equestrian Experience Days.
Two education sessions are available: Social Media and Marketing (held in March and available on YouTube) and Governance (scheduled for tonight 13 May).
Clubs can also apply for $1,000 Safety Grants to fund infrastructure and safety projects that benefit their members.
Strategic Plan Areas: Clubs and Disciplines Strong Profile
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Nominate a Coach of the Quarter
Know a coach who goes the extra mile?
Equestrian NSW is now accepting nominations for Coach of the Quarter — a chance to recognise an outstanding EA-accredited coach who:
• Demonstrates exceptional commitment to their riders
• Contributes positively to our equestrian community
• Champions safe, inclusive, and high-quality coaching
Nominees must be current EA-accredited coaches. Nominations close [insert date].
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