Gillian Rolton Memorial Alumnus Award
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- Bev Shandley, Corner Inlet Pony Club (VIC)
Beverley (Bev) Shandley first joined Berry’s Creek Pony Club in West Gippsland Zone at the age of eight in 1962, the minimum joining age at that time.
Throughout her early years, the club thrived in team competitions, especially in Eventing, and Bev quickly stood out. Her talent was recognised by the club’s DC, Mrs Evelyn Kenny, who nominated her as a Zone Assistant, eventually leading to her appointment as Deputy Chief Instructor and then Zone Chief Instructor for an impressive 16 years.
Bev’s dedication extended far beyond the club, as she was appointed coach and Chef d’Equip for both the Australian Inter-Pacific team and the Victorian squad, competing at the national finals in Western Australia. She remains a life member of Berry’s Creek Pony Club and has contributed over 62 years to the Pony Club movement.
An enduring and passionate supporter of Eventing, Bev has made her mark not only as an athlete but also as an official, guiding athletes in their dressage skills and mentoring aspiring officials. Her journey began on the family farm, riding alongside her sister Yvonne, with whom she organised and ran the Cape Paterson ODE for many years. As a competitor, Bev represented Victoria in several of Australia’s top events, including Gawler (now Adelaide), Melbourne International, Tasmania, and Western Australia.
As a coach mentor, state and national assessor, and an ‘A’ level certificate assessor for Pony Club Victoria, Bev’s influence has been far-reaching. She also holds significant roles with the FEI and EA as a Technical Delegate, Judge, and Advisor, officiating at prestigious events like the Adelaide 5* Horse Trials and volunteering at the Tokyo Test Event. Her work as an official has taken her across the globe, including to Japan, New Zealand, and Minsk in Belarus, as well as continuing her education with visits to Warendorf in Germany and Aintree in the UK.
Bev’s knowledge of Eventing, particularly dressage and cross-country, is widely respected, and her contributions to the sport over many decades have left a lasting impact. As a Level 3 EA and FEI 3 Ground Juror, she has officiated across Australia and internationally, always willing to help riders and share her expertise.
Though busy with her official duties, Bev still finds time to support West Gippsland Zone’s Young Ambassador Program, coach at club rallies, and teach parents, coaches, and riders about course accreditation, dressage judging, and stewarding. Her ongoing commitment to the Pony Club movement, particularly through mentoring those dedicated to learning, is truly exceptional.