Volunteer of the Year
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- Jo Humphries, Oxenford Pony Club (QLD)
Jo Humphries, a dedicated volunteer from Oxenford Pony Club, has been instrumental in the club’s survival and success throughout 2023 and 2024. Known for her kindness and unwavering support for all members, Jo consistently ensures that every child is recognised for their efforts. Her thoughtful gestures, like awarding a ribbon to a young competitor despite their elimination in a dressage test, embody her commitment to encouraging and uplifting riders of all abilities.
Jo’s leadership has been pivotal in uniting the club for common goals, such as fundraising for both the club and the local community. She played a key role in facilitating events like the Pink Dressage for Breast Cancer, which has run for two consecutive years, and a fundraiser for a local rider recovering from a serious injury.
Her innovative approach has brought a new level of sponsorship to Oxenford competitions, earning the club a reputation for offering excellent prizes, including rugs, rider accessories, and vouchers. Jo has worked tirelessly to ensure participants can celebrate their achievements, while also fostering a sense of community by introducing interschool competitions, open days, and expert coaching clinics.
Jo’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in her efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can enjoy and participate in horse riding. She has a reputation for acting with integrity and transparency in her dealings with local businesses for sponsorships and grants, securing over $23,000 in grants for the club in 2023.
Even without holding a formal committee position in 2024, Jo has been the driving force behind every successful event. Her quiet yet impactful presence has supported new committee members, boosting the club’s membership from fewer than 20 to over 50, and ensuring that Oxenford remains one of the friendliest and most inclusive clubs around.
Jo’s resilience during times of governance challenges has been remarkable. She has given countless hours to support events, from organising and coordinating to judging, course building, and scoring. Her dedication extends beyond Oxenford, as she regularly volunteers her time across Zone 2, helping other clubs thrive as well.
Jo Humphries is an exceptional volunteer, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the continued success of Pony Club.