HEATHER DISHER, Chair

Heather has many years experience as a Vice President, Business Leader, Director, Consultant and Advisory for start-ups, SME’s and Corporates by creating sustainable operations, superior customer communication and high growth. With previous experience as a Director/Board and Committee Member Heather brings global expertise within the areas of Governance, Operational Development, Communication, Digital Transformation, Strategic Development and Growth.

Growing up Heather and her sisters where members of the Beveridge Pony Club, she remembers the joy of riding to events, the bond of horse and rider and being a part of a community that encourages education and teamwork. Heather looks forward to continuing a focus of participation, education and awareness along with increasing the profile of PCA and equestrian sports.

Heather was appointed to the board in 2019 and elected as Chair in May 2020.

JO MORGAN

Jo is a senior marketing and finance industry professional with over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry. She holds a Master of Applied Finance. She held senior executive roles across blue-chip, national and boutique firms, and worked on strategic business and marketing planning, brand, media liaison, marketing campaign development, digital/web content and marketing analytics. Jo is a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

She has been a member of Arcadia Pony Club NSW for nearly 10 years, and her three children have grown up with the Club. Jo has been instrumental in recruiting members and increasing the Club’s digital footprint, including establishing online certificate work for members during the pandemic.  Jo Morgan was a 2019 Finalist for PCA Volunteer of the Year and Arcadia Pony Club was a finalist for PCA Club of the Year in 2020. She is passionate about member engagement and satisfaction across all States and the long-term growth of Pony Club. Jo was elected by members at the 2021 AGM for a two-year term.

DR. KATE FENNER

Kate is a Lecturer in Equine Science at the University of Queensland and director of Kandoo Equine. Kate has strong industry connections and national and international academic and industry partnerships. Kate holds an undergraduate degree with Honours in Equine Science and a PhD in Horse Behaviour, Training and Welfare.

Her expertise is in horse behaviour, the horse-human relationship, the use of learning theory, ethics and One Welfare in handling and training. She has been recognised for teaching innovation in distance learning, developing online teaching resources and delivery modes that have been recognized as industry best practice.

Kate is currently Treasurer and Trustee with the International Society for Equitation Science.  Kate was previously an EA and BHS certified coach and international competitor in dressage, showjumping and polo.

Kate was appointed to the Board in 2022.

NICK HASSETT

Nick has a depth of horse industry involvement, as a thoroughbred horse owner, racing club board member, and a past Pony Club President. His career includes 30 years’ experience in providing advice on strategy and governance to the banking, energy and telecommunications sectors including leading major projects, mergers and acquisitions, operating model transformation, and digital enablement.

Nick has had 28 years as a company director and experience as an advisory board and board committee Chair, and multiple club committee and board committee memberships. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), has Governance in Sport qualification from the Governance Institute of Australia and a Masters in Public Policy and Management from Monash University.

Nick was elected to the Board in 2022.

TONIA MURTAGH

Tonia started life as a grass roots Pony Clubber and has maintained a strong connection with the sport for well over 45 years. Tonia works in Sales and Property Marketing and is a past Vice President of Pony Club Queensland.

Tonia has been active at the state level in sponsorship, managing grievances, supporting the insurance portfolio. Her experience includes Zone President and Treasurer roles and event management, and as the parent of an active member.

Tonia has already been working at the national level as the Queensland representative on the PCA National Safety Committee.

Tonia was elected to the Board in 2022.

MARYLOU HODGES

Marylou Hodges began her equestrian journey in 1967 at her first rally on a beloved pony named Jingles at Holbrook Pony Club. Her passion for horses and riding, ignited from that first experience, has continued to flourish. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to working with and encouraging people of all ages to achieve their goals, particularly in the agricultural and equine fields.

Marylou is a practical and empathetic individual who finds great satisfaction in delivering successful and often life-changing programs to young people. She has extensive experience in committee roles and voluntary positions within the equine community and is comfortable in various settings, from boardrooms to paddocks.

Marylou is approachable, friendly, and an excellent listener, with a knack for effective communication and time management. As a Director of Pony Club Australia, she is committed to honoring the organisation and representing its members to the best of her abilities.

Marylou was elected to the board in 2024.

ALISON CAIRNS

Alison Cairns is a Partner at Ernst & Young, where she leads the Education Industry Practice in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on equity and accessibility to quality education. She has been involved in Pony Club in New Zealand, the UK, and Australia, cherishing her childhood experiences of inclusion, friendship, learning, and exceptional times with her horse. Alison is passionate about ensuring Pony Club continues to play a vital role in communities, delivering quality experiences through coaching and education.

Alison was appointed to the Board in 2024.