PCA Club of the Year
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- Dungog Pony Club (NSW)
Dungog Pony Club has undergone a transformation in recent years, as older members moved on, making way for a new, enthusiastic committee.
Now in their second year, this fresh team has embraced the opportunity to shape a supportive, inclusive, and vibrant club, offering an exciting array of activities for its members. The results speak for themselves, with membership numbers almost doubling this year.
New members frequently highlight the club’s welcoming atmosphere and the exceptional variety of instruction across multiple disciplines. Catering to riders from as young as four through to seniors at 18, Dungog Pony Club prides itself on providing quality instruction through PCA-accredited instructors. The club fosters not only riding skills but also values such as horsemanship, perseverance, responsibility, and friendship, ensuring members gain far more than ribbons.
One of the club’s proudest achievements has been the development of a cross-country course, built by the club president’s husband for the exclusive use of members. This addition has broadened the experiences available to riders and attracted esteemed coaches such as NSW State Senior Instructor Jane Frankum and Olympian Matt Ryan. Both trainers praised the club, reinforcing its commitment to rider development.
Dungog Pony Club is also responsive to its members’ needs. After listening to feedback, the club adapted its timetable to better suit younger riders, ensuring that Pony Club remains an enjoyable experience for all. The committee actively encourages member input, fostering a collaborative approach that strengthens the club’s community spirit.
The club’s connection to the local community is equally strong. Working with local organisations such as the Men’s Shed to build new equipment and running joint events with neighbouring clubs has further embedded Dungog Pony Club as a central part of the region. The club’s fundraising efforts, including hosting canteens at local events, have enabled them to subsidise activities, ensuring accessibility for all members.