Proudly sponsored by Duncan Equine
Pony Club Australia is delighted to announce the finalists for the Accredited Riding Centre of the Year. This award recognises centres that deliver high-quality Pony Club programmes, champion inclusion, prioritise horse welfare, and create positive pathways for riders of all ages and abilities.
The winner will be announced on Saturday 4 October at the Ranvet 2025 Pony Club Australia National Championships Annual Awards & Presentation Dinner.
The Finalists
Turlinjah Park Equestrian Centre (NSW)
Why they’re a finalist
Turlinjah Park Equestrian Centre (TPEC) has rapidly built a thriving, inclusive programme that mirrors the Pony Club Australia Syllabus of Instruction, with tailored lesson plans for different ages, abilities, and learning styles. In just eight months, they’ve achieved impressive engagement and certificate progression across their Centre Members.
What stands out
Inclusive facilities & delivery: A wheelchair-accessible mounting ramp and adjustable equipment ensure riders with disability can participate fully and safely.
Syllabus-led, engaging learning: Lessons weave together practical demonstrations, whiteboard work, certificate books, and creative activities (e.g. “horse & handler” partner games to practise catch and release).
Broad discipline exposure: Members experience dressage, showjumping, mounted games, polocrosse and more, supported by guest instructors (including elite competitors) who share career insights.
Coach calibre:
Michelle Nickson — NCAS Level 1, Silver Level Pony Club NSW Coach, Introductory EA Coach; 17 years of Pony Club service.
Madeline Nickson — NCAS Preliminary Coach; recipient of the 2024 Keith Lowe Award recognising outstanding promotion and participation in Pony Club.
Member progress & recognition: All Centre Members achieved E Certificates this year and are working towards D Certificates (including the adult pathway). Each rally day includes two Rider of the Day encouragement awards.
Culture & welfare: High attendance at rally days, strong emphasis on safety (compulsory helmets/boots) and everyday horse care; welfare principles are embedded across the programme.
A rider perspective: “TPEC does not discriminate in any way and embraces all who attend… they are fully equipped to extend their knowledge and experience,” notes one wheelchair-using member.
Phoenix Acres Equine Centre (QLD)
Why they’re a finalist
Phoenix Acres Equine Centre is recognised for its community leadership, innovative programme delivery, and a family-style culture where no one misses out. Their events and partnerships lift visibility for Centre Membership and open doors for riders who might not otherwise have access.
What stands out
Community impact & events: Hosts the annual Phoenix Cup and has supported local clubs by providing grounds for competitions—using these moments to promote PCA Centre Membership and broaden participation.
Flexible, engaging learning: Training isn’t just “time in the saddle”—it includes camps, demonstrations and group activities, keeping learning inclusive, responsive and fun.
Pathways & accreditation: Delivers the PCA syllabus and actively encourages members and families to gain coaching accreditation, gear checking accreditation, and officiating/course-building credentials, strengthening the local volunteer pipeline.
Welcoming culture: Members describe Phoenix Acres as “one big happy family”, with the centre well known and respected across the region for creating opportunities for youth, adults, and riders with disability.
Commitment to standards: The owners’ strong work ethic and focus on skills, knowledge and daily horse care underpin consistent progress for riders at all levels.
Thank you to our sponsor
This category is proudly sponsored by Duncan Equine. Their support helps us celebrate Accredited Riding Centres that deliver safe, supportive, and syllabus-aligned programmes—building skills, confidence and community through Pony Club.
Celebrating our finalists
Congratulations to Turlinjah Park Equestrian Centre (NSW) and Phoenix Acres Equine Centre (QLD) on being named finalists for Accredited Riding Centre of the Year. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and announcing the winner at the Annual Awards & Presentation Dinner during the Ranvet 2025 Pony Club Australia National Championships.
