As we enter the last week of July, we take a moment to recognise and celebrate the many achievements, milestones and important initiatives that have shaped our sport over the past few weeks. From standout international performances and the announcement of new competitions to safety initiatives and national forums.
At every level, we’ve seen the dedication and passion of our athletes, officials, volunteers and supporters shine through. In this edition, you’ll find highlights that reflect the strength of our disciplines, updates on key developments, and stories that continue to inspire.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
The Equestrian Australia Team
2026 FEI Calendar
A reminder that FEI Calendar Applications for 2026 are now open. If you wish to hold an International (FEI) event during 2026, you will need to fill out an application form.
Health Safety and Welfare Update
See below for an update from our Health, Safety and Welfare Team with information on Horse Falls in Eventing and discussions around possible athlete sanctions.
DRESSAGE
2025 Australian Youth Dressage Championships
The 2025 Australian Youth Dressage Championships recently concluded amidst great fanfare and excitement in the picturesque Riverina region of New South Wales.
EVENTING
National Eventing Forum
On Tuesday 15 July, the Equestrian Australia Eventing Committee (EAEC) hosted a face-to-face National Forum, bringing together athletes, officials, and key stakeholders from across the country.
JUMPING
Trans-Tasman Test Series
Applications are now open for the Australian Senior and Young Rider Trans-Tasman Test Series teams. The series will be held over three legs in August and September 2025, with each team consisting of four riders plus a reserve and a Chef d’Equipe.
PARA DRESSAGE
High Performance Para Dressage Coach Study Tour
Seven Para Dressage coaches undertook a European study tour organised by EA’s Para Dressage High Performance Program.
DRIVING
Australia Makes History with Nations Cup Victory at CHIO Aachen
Australia has secured its first-ever Nations Cup victory in the Four-in-Hand Driving at the prestigious CHIO Aachen, thanks to a powerhouse performance by Boyd Exell and Tor van den Berge and their teams.
COACHING
Coach of the Month
Adam Prime
This month, we shine a spotlight on Adam Prime from Victoria, a dedicated coach whose journey in the equestrian world has been shaped by passion, mentorship, and a commitment to fostering talent at all levels.
Coaching Update
Coach renewals for the 2025–2026 season officially opened on 17 June 2025. It has been a busy and productive month processing the many renewals received, and the process is still ongoing. It’s been fantastic to see such strong engagement, with a large number of coaches affiliating with Equestrian Australia and supporting the EA Accredited Coach Pathway.
OFFICIALS
Officials Membership
A reminder that EA Membership must be current for EA Officials status to be valid for those states going through renewal at the beginning of the new Financial Year.
EA Official’s Top Up Insurance for 2025/26
Do you require Officials Top-Up Insurance? If you earn an income for officiating or officiate at non EA affiliated events or events not insured through the EA Insurance programme, then yes, you should consider this.
EA Merchandise
Keep snug this winter with your EA Mechandise, designed for Officials, Coaches and General Use.
Officials Re-accreditation
The re-accreditation process for EA Officials is now open for the new cycle. Remember that you must be a current member to officiate. All EA Officials must re-accredit every three years, allowing EA to verify the specific requirements for your role(s) and extend your status for another three years.
Congratulations to the following members on their
Official appointments in June:
Suzanne Betts (TAS) – FEI Dressage Steward – Level 2
Sarah White (SA) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 2
Lisa Buckby (TAS) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 2
Verity Hayman (SA) – EA Eventing Steward – Level 2
Pamela Watson (NSW) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 2
Lisa Gall (QLD) – FEI Eventing Technical Delegate – Level 3
Nicholas Wells (WA) – EA Eventing Course Designer – Level 1
Peta Daffurn (NSW) – EA Show Horse Judge – Provisional
Jennifer Dorward (VIC) – EA Eventing Steward – Level 2
Shaye Grovenor-Peters (NSW) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 1
Carly Boon (SA) – EA Para Dressage Judge
Melanie Skinner (NSW) – EA Show Horse Judge – State
Debra Collins (VIC) – EA Jumping Course Designer – Level 1
Jen Bensen (SA) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 1
Denise Toman (NSW) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 1
Phaedra Walsh (NSW) – EA Dressage Steward – Level 1
Louise Wiseman (NSW) – EA Show Horse Judge – National
Johannah Madigan (QLD) – EA Show Horse Judge – Provisional
Greg Auer (QLD) – EA Eventing Course Designer – Level 1
Simone James (VIC) – EA Eventing Judge – Level 2
