PCA Club of the Year
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- Midlands Pony Club (TAS)
Midlands Pony Club (MPC) is a dynamic, inclusive club dedicated to attracting, retaining, and responding to the needs of its members.
The club’s Committee actively analyses its membership, considering age demographics, skills, and interests to ensure a tailored approach to member engagement. MPC identifies potential members early, engaging with families to track rider progress and ensuring new members are well-prepared through a comprehensive application and induction process. This includes gear checks, safety briefings, and a focus on the club’s culture before members even mount a horse.
MPC places a strong emphasis on retention, fostering an environment where members feel supported and valued. The club’s 2023 member survey provided key insights into member satisfaction, guiding future initiatives and ensuring the club offers a rich variety of disciplines, including polocrosse, campdrafting, and anatomical lessons. This diversity has been instrumental in attracting male junior members, with MPC boasting the highest number of male juniors in the state.
The club is committed to continuous improvement, with projects underway to enhance its cross-country course and horsemanship facilities. Inclusivity and kindness are core values, discussed regularly at rallies and reinforced by celebrating members who embody these principles. Open communication is a priority, with feedback loops like suggestion boxes and regular updates via social media and newsletters, ensuring transparency.
Leadership development is another focal point, with a mentoring program for the club captain that fosters skills in communication, leadership, and initiative. MPC’s AGM maximises member participation, and the club celebrates all achievements, from competition success to personal milestones.
With a strong membership base of 35 juniors and 4 associates, the club runs efficiently thanks to a skilled, structured Committee. Safety, risk management, and transparent decision-making are the pillars of its operations. MPC’s long-term commitment to succession planning ensures that future leaders are always prepared, with a dedicated approach to matching volunteers to roles based on their strengths and interests.
MPC’s recent grants and sponsorship successes, driven by their dedicated Committee member for Grants and Sponsorship, have resulted in new resources, including a defibrillator, showjumping poles, and maintenance equipment. A new partnership with the Youngtown Rotary Club has further enriched the club, providing invaluable support for events like the 2024 State Trials.
Recognised as Tasmania’s Club of the Year in 2024, Midlands Pony Club stands out for its commitment to horsemanship, diverse coaching, and a supportive, inclusive culture.