The Pony Club community is thrilled to congratulate Bendigo Pony Club on being awarded the prestigious Gow Gates Pony Club Australia Club of the Year for 2025.
This remarkable achievement highlights their resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to their riders, community, and equine values in the face of extraordinary challenges.
A Journey of Resilience and Growth
Despite losing their long-term home in Golden Square, Bendigo Pony Club has flourished, growing to 46 members in 2024—a 48% increase in membership. Their relocation to a new site at Goornong, a former unused golf course, was no small feat. With no existing facilities and layers of red tape, the club’s members, volunteers, and committee worked tirelessly to transform the site into a thriving hub for riders. Through creative fundraising—online auctions, monthly raffles, and Christmas Bunnings BBQs—and strategic use of JustGo for managing rallies and memberships, Bendigo has rebuilt and reimagined their future.
Fostering Community and Inclusivity
Bendigo Pony Club’s heart lies in its riders. The club has created a supportive, inclusive environment where every member feels valued. Their annual camp at Glenlyon saw 41 riders, including Come & Try participants, engage in fun activities like an “Amazing Race” and educational sessions on horse management, including Faecal Egg Counts. For many, Pony Club is more than a weekend activity—it’s a lifeline, offering a safe space for riders facing challenges like anxiety, school refusal, or mental health struggles. This nurturing environment ensures every child feels connected, confident, and supported.
Commitment to Safety and Governance
Safety and strong governance are at the core of Bendigo’s operations. The club implemented thorough pre-rally checklists, risk assessments, and ongoing monitoring to ensure a safe environment. Their proactive approach to land stewardship includes biodiversity and weed management plans, ensuring the Goornong grounds are not just used but improved for future generations. Bendigo’s adoption of Game Plan, Pony Club Australia’s strategic planning tool, has helped them benchmark progress and set ambitious goals for the future.
Coaching and Member Development
Bendigo Pony Club is dedicated to rider and coach development. Half of their members hold PCA certificates, with coaching integrated into rallies to progress riders from E to C* levels. Older members are stepping into leadership roles, with one already enrolled in PCA’s Foundation Coach program. Parents are also advancing their coaching qualifications, strengthening the club’s instructor base and ensuring a bright future for rider education.
A Heartfelt Thank You
In their acceptance speech, Bendigo Pony Club expressed deep gratitude to their community:
“This award is for every rider, parent, volunteer, and coach who stood by us through an incredibly challenging few years. It’s for every parent who packed up a float in the dark, every coach who showed up rain or shine, and every child who smiled when they were back in the saddle.”
They also acknowledged the support of Pony Club Australia and Gow-Gates Insurance for their invaluable sponsorship, ensuring clubs and riders can operate with confidence and peace of mind.
Special Recognition
A special mention goes to three dedicated individuals whose tireless efforts were instrumental in this success:
- Pauline Campbell, Secretary – Managed complex communications during the relocation with exceptional dedication.
- Tracy Barber – A former parent and committee member who stayed on to support the club beyond her expected term.
- Sue Harvey, President and Life Member – Her decades-long dedication has been a pillar of strength for the club.
Standing Among Champions
Bendigo Pony Club proudly stood alongside other finalists—Rosewood Hack & Pony Club (QLD), Carnarvon Horse & Pony Club (WA), Litchfield Horse & Pony Club (NT), and Harden PC (NSW)—all recognized for their strong community focus, inclusivity, and high standards. Bendigo’s story of perseverance, teamwork, and vision sets an inspiring example for Pony Clubs across Australia.
Looking Forward
This national recognition fuels Bendigo Pony Club’s energy to keep building, growing, and riding forward. Their journey from nomads to a thriving community at Goornong is a testament to what dedication and passion can achieve.
Pony Club Victoria joins in celebrating their incredible achievement and looks forward to seeing their continued success.
Congratulations, Bendigo Pony Club, on an honour well-deserved!
Article contributed by Pony Club Victoria
