By Suanne Waugh, PCA National Integrity Manager
Creating safe, welcoming and inclusive environments is central to Pony Club Australia’s commitment to integrity, welfare and positive participation.
This article has been written from the perspective of a young Pony Club member, drawing on feedback and experiences shared by riders across Australia. It reflects what many young people tell us matters most to them — feeling welcome, supported and valued — and highlights the everyday actions that help create a strong club culture.
Through My Eyes
When I come to Pony Club, I don’t just come to ride my pony. I come to learn, to have fun, and to feel like I belong.
To me, inclusion in Pony Club means that everyone is welcome, no matter what level you are, what pony you ride, or how confident you feel. Some kids are great jumpers, some love dressage, some are still learning how to steer properly – and that’s okay. We are all here to learn.
Being included means people are kind. It means no one laughs if you make a mistake. It means coaches explain things in a way we can understand and help us if we are struggling. It means older kids help younger ones, and friends cheer for each other.
Inclusion also means being treated fairly. Everyone should get a turn, get feedback, and feel noticed. You shouldn’t feel invisible or left out just because you are quieter, slower or different.
Pony Club should be a place where you feel safe – safe to try, safe to ask questions, and safe to be yourself. When that happens, you start to believe in yourself. You try harder. You smile more.
For me, inclusion in Pony Club means knowing that I matter, my pony matters, and that I am part of a team. That’s what makes Pony Club special.
What makes your Pony Club feel like a place you belong?
Supporting Positive Club Environments
Positive club culture does not happen by accident. It is shaped every day through the behaviour, communication and leadership of coaches, officials, volunteers, parents and members.
Pony Club Australia encourages all clubs to regularly reflect on how welcoming and supportive their environment is, and to take practical steps to strengthen inclusion, safety and respect.
To support this, we have developed the following Welcoming Environment Checklist.
Pony Club Welcoming Environment Checklist
Club Culture & Values
- Pony Club values (Horsemanship, Respect, Enjoyment, Safety, Teamwork) are visible and promoted
- All members are treated fairly regardless of ability, age or experience
- Zero tolerance for bullying, exclusion or unsafe behaviour
- Positive language encouraged at all times
- Junior voices are listened to and respected
New Member Welcome
- New members receive a welcome pack or email
- Orientation day or buddy system offered
- Club expectations explained clearly
- First rally experience supported by a helper or mentor
- Families know who to ask for help
Coaches & Instruction
- Coaches use age-appropriate, encouraging teaching methods
- Focus on learning and confidence-building
- Instructions explained clearly and calmly
- Riders grouped by ability, not just age
- Extra help offered when needed
Safety & Welfare
- Safety rules clearly explained and enforced
- Safe handling and horse welfare prioritised
- Riders feel safe to speak up if worried
- First aid available at activities
- Safe, clean and well-maintained facilities
Inclusion & Access
- Reasonable adjustments available for riders with additional needs
- Equipment borrowing or sharing options
- Flexible uniform where appropriate
- Supportive approach to nervous or beginner riders
- Cultural diversity respected
Communication With Families
- Rally and event information sent early
- Clear instructions about what to bring and wear
- Multiple communication methods used
- Changes communicated promptly
Participation & Opportunities
- Every rider gets meaningful participation time
- No rider left out of activities without explanation
- Opportunities for non-competitive involvement
- Progress and effort recognised
Social & Team Environment
- Riders encouraged to help each other
- Team games and fun activities included
- New friendships supported
- Good sportsmanship recognised
Volunteers & Helpers
- Parents and volunteers welcomed
- Clear roles and expectations
- Thanks and recognition given
Review & Improve
- Junior feedback collected
- Parent feedback collected
- Issues followed up
- Improvements communicated
Pony Club Australia is committed to creating environments where every member feels safe, respected and supported to learn and grow.
By reflecting regularly, listening to feedback, and working together, clubs can continue to strengthen the culture that makes Pony Club a positive experience for all.
If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions about inclusion and club culture, we encourage you to speak with your club, state association, or contact the PCA Integrity team.
