by Bronwyn Wheatley | Sep 3, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
By Fiona Dearing, Bit Right Equine Bit Fitting Many Pony Club members choose an off the track thoroughbred as their first large horse. They’re often a super choice. For a young person prepared to put in the work required they’ll repay you ten-fold. Of course, learning...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Aug 28, 2024 | NEWSLETTERS
As spring approaches and the days start getting longer and warmer, it’s time to think about how we care for our horses in this transitional season. One of the key areas to consider is rugging—particularly, the risk of over-rugging as the temperature rises....
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Aug 21, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
As the days grow longer and warmer, spring brings a significant change to pasture quality and availability. This seasonal shift is a favourite for many horse owners, but it’s not without its challenges. The surge of fresh spring grass can impact your horse’s diet,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Aug 5, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We are thrilled to welcome Equinade on board as a sponsor of the PCA Annual Awards coming up in October! 100% Australian made and owned, Equinade has been creating premium quality horse and leather care products for over 45 years. Their sponsorship is for the...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Aug 1, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
By Fiona Dearing, Bit Right Equine We’re in the middle of the Olympics and of course, this generates much commentary around equine welfare issues and the ‘Holy Trinity’ of Whips, Spurs and Bits. Some of this commentary is from well-informed sources, some of it from...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 23, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
This September, Pony Club Australia is excited to send a fantastic team to the International Mounted Games Exchange (IMGE) in Canada. Our team members, each bringing their own unique experiences and dedication, are eager to compete and represent Australia. Let’s...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 18, 2024 | MEDIA RELEASES
Media Release 18 July 2024 Lexington, KY, USA: After a successful four-year term, Pony Club Australia (PCA) hands over the administration of the Pony Club International Alliance (PCIA) this week at the 2024 United States Pony Club (USPC) Festival in Lexington,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 17, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
At Pony Club, our horses participate in various activities, and it’s essential to consider their well-being. As responsible owners, we need to be mindful of how much work is suitable for our horses. Researchers have studied the ideal weight-carrying capacity of...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 16, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Pony Club Australia is thrilled to welcome VIPA Body Protection Vests as a sponsor of the PCA Annual Awards. VIPA is an Australian-owned and operated business founded by retired champion jockey Greg Childs and his wife, Diane. They will be sponsoring the category...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 9, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Meet Natasha Schilling, a 15-year-old from Mildura Alcheringa Pony Club in Victoria. Natasha has been a part of Pony Club since she was eight, and she recently achieved an exciting milestone by graduating from the Pony Club Australia Leadership Certificate Program....
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 8, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Take on the challenge of embedding strong integrity and safeguarding practices at your club with these eight simple actions. Can your club complete them all by December 31, 2024? For any questions, contact PCA Integrity Manager Suanne Waugh at...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 1, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Meet Hanna Bailey, a 15-year-old member of the Midlands Pony Club in Tasmania. Hanna recently graduated from the Pony Club Australia Leadership Certificate Program. This program is designed for members aged 14 to 18 and aims to develop leadership skills and personal...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 1, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We are excited to announce that Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) will continue its generous sponsorship of the Pony Club Australia Annual Awards. TBA, the national peak body for the Australian thoroughbred breeding industry, provides free learning courses for...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jul 1, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
By Fiona Dearing, Bit Right Equine Bit Fitting One of the questions I ask groups at Pony Clubs when I’m there is if they clean their knife and fork after eating dinner each night. It’s a question that often produces some interesting answers, ‘my mum does’ is a...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 28, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We are excited to announce that applications for the 2025/25 Pony Club Australia (PCA) Leadership Certificate Program are now open! This is a unique opportunity for our members to develop and showcase their leadership skills in horse sports and beyond. Key Dates:...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 27, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Did you know that a horse’s spine from withers to tail has a very limited range of movement, while their neck is much more mobile and can bend in all directions? This helps horses graze and groom themselves, but for trainers, it can affect balance in a negative...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 27, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
North Dorrigo Pony Club’s Peyton Lee has had an exciting tetrathlon journey, demonstrating that anyone who sets their mind to something can achieve it if they are prepared to put in the work. Over the Christmas period in 2020, Peyton saw a YouTube video of a...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 26, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We’re thrilled to announce that Ranvet is continuing its sponsorship of the PCA Annual Awards, coming up in October. This year, they are sponsoring the category “Best Achievement by a Rider aged 13-17 years.” Ranvet are experts in equine nutrition,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 26, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Today, we’re discussing the fascinating topic of dominance patterns in horses. The social dynamics of horses are intricate and reveal unique dominance patterns among individuals. While the idea of a strict dominance hierarchy has been popular, recent insights...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 17, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Today, we’re discussing into the important topic of horse welfare when it comes to trimming. Proper grooming not only keeps your horse looking their best but also ensures their comfort and health. Here’s how to trim your horse with care and consideration for their...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 13, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Whether you’re buying a new horse or assisting a less experienced friend, riding unfamiliar horses can be a daunting task. At Pony Club Australia, we believe in prioritising safety and adopting a systematic approach to ensure a positive experience. Here’s a...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 7, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We’re thrilled to introduce the Pony Club Australia Tetrathlon International Exchange Team! This July and August, our team will head to the UK to compete in the Irish Tetrathlon Championships, the UK Senior International Tetrathlon Competition, and the UK...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 6, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Meet Brydi Fittock, a 15-year-old from North Dorrigo Pony Club in NSW. Recently, Brydi graduated from the Pony Club Australia Leadership Certificate program. This program is designed for members aged 14 to 18, aiming to develop leadership skills and personal growth...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Jun 5, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Isabella Hughes, a dedicated member of the Hinton Wallalong Pony Club, NSW, recently graduated from the Pony Club Australia Leadership Certificate program. Designed for members aged 14 to 18, this program helps develop leadership skills and personal growth. It...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Pony Club Australia is proud to announce a significant advancement in our educational offerings. We have successfully mapped our proficiency standards with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and now offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) towards...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
By Fiona Dearing, Bit Right Equine Bit Fitting This is a question I ask groups often at pony clubs and the answer I usually receive is along the lines of every twelve months. It’s a fair answer as many people would think about it in a similar way to your dental...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 28, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Thorough preparation for travel will reduce the risk of problems while travelling your horse. The float, gooseneck or truck should be roadworthy, regularly serviced and in good condition. There are different rules in each state regarding towing weights and legalities...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 27, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Horses are very similar to humans in many different aspects of their brain and behaviour. We are both social species, we like to play and we both have excellent memories. But in order to truly understand the horse, you must get to know the difference between a...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 27, 2024 | IN THE NEWS, MEDIA RELEASES
May 27, 2024 Pony Club Australia (PCA) is pleased to announce the election of three directors at the Annual General Meeting held in Melbourne on Saturday, 25 May. Nick Hassett and Tonia Murtagh have been re-elected for another two-year term, and we are excited to...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 22, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Emily Marshall Age: 15 Pony Club: Ararat Pony Club, Victoria Pony Club Journey: Q: What do you enjoy most about Pony Club? A: I enjoy spending time with people who have the same interests as me and making friends with people of all ages. Q: Can you share a memorable...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 22, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Meet Emilia Savage, a 12-year-old rider from Bangalow Pony Club, NSW. With her pony, Aspenview Aylan, she won the National Pony Racing Series in the large pony category at Royal Randwick in April. Her journey showcases hard work, determination, and a strong bond with...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 20, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Let’s meet Charlotte Wright, an active member of the North Dorrigo Horse and Pony Club in NSW. Charlotte’s journey through the Pony Club Australia (PCA) Leadership Certificate Program has been a rewarding experience, offering growth and new opportunities. Tailored for...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | May 8, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
PCA is excited to introduce you to the awesome team representing Australia at the International Quiz in Kentucky, USA, in July. Let’s meet the fantastic members who will be proudly wearing the green and gold! Annabelle Ennis-Wert Annabelle is 20 years old...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
This year, Anzac Day held special meaning for Pony Clubs in Zone 9 of NSW. Instead of their usual Rally Day, they all came together for a combined event to honour this important day. Hosted by Bellinger River Pony Club at the Bellingen Showgrounds, members from North...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Get ready, Pony Club members! Nominations for the 2024/25 PCA Leadership Certificate will be opening in June. If you’re between the ages of 14 and 18 at the start of January, this program is for you. And here’s the best part: you can complete it at your...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
By Fiona Dearing, bit right EQUINE When I went to Pony Club back in the dark ages of the 1980’s the general rule of bit fitting was to be able to place your little finger between the lips of the horse and the cheekpiece of the bit on each side. This ‘rule’ served me...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 30, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
We’re thrilled to announce the riders chosen to represent Pony Club Australia in the 2024 International Mounted Games Exchange (IMGE) in Canada. This annual event, which includes teams from Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and the USA, will be a fantastic...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 26, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Excitement filled the air at Sydney’s Royal Randwick as the inaugural National Pony Racing Finals unfolded on April 20. Among the cheers and applause, two outstanding pairs emerged as champions, leaving their mark on the pony racing scene. Championing the Spirit...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 26, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Moranbah Horse & Pony Club Rosedale & District Pony Club Penola Pony Club Mansfield Pony Club York Pony Club Glenlyon & District Pony Cllub Grenfell Pony Club Narrabri & District Pony Club Dirranbandi Pony Club Taroom & District Pony Club...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 15, 2024 | MEDIA RELEASES
April 16, 2024 The 2023/24 National Pony Racing Series reaches its peak with a thrilling final at Sydney’s Royal Randwick Racecourse on Saturday, April 20. Young riders, aged 9 to 15 years, representing Pony Clubs nationwide, will vie for victory in either Pony Race 1...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Apr 2, 2024 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: Bits and nosebands Tetrathlon’s top performers When to worm your horse Places Pony Club can take you Shetlands on show DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT WE...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Mar 1, 2024 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: Win a mounting block 10 reasons to walk your horse Horse book winners New year, new certificate? Tetrathlon rule changes DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Feb 3, 2024 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: International exchanges for 2024 Working overseas Children and social media Pony racing popular DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT WE ARE DOING RIGHT,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Dec 14, 2023 | MEDIA RELEASES
Elecbrakes is producing a series of safe towing videos for Pony Club Australia...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Dec 6, 2023 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: PCA Nationals results Thelwell Art Competition Quick JustGo Guide for 2024 Tetrathlon opportunity DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT WE ARE DOING RIGHT,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Nov 25, 2023 | MEDIA RELEASES
Pony Club International Alliance (PCIA) Virtual Showjumping results...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Nov 2, 2023 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: PCA Award Winners International Mounted Games Dos and definitely Don’ts of whip use Nationals snapshots A Word from a Volunteer DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Oct 2, 2023 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: PCA Award finalists Recruiting New Members National Championships underway Saying Thanks Laminitis DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT WE ARE DOING RIGHT,...
by Bronwyn Wheatley | Sep 1, 2023 | NEWSLETTERS
In this Newsletter: Meet the new CEO Women in Sports Leadership Mounted Games rules update Arenas that Last Long rein or loose rein? DOWNLOAD NEWSLETTER DO YOU HAVE A COMMENT, CONCERN OR COMPLIMENT? PROVIDE PONY CLUB AUSTRALIA WITH YOUR FEEDBACK. TELL US WHAT WE ARE...
by Catherine Ainsworth | Aug 9, 2023 | MEDIA RELEASES
Pony Club welcomes adult...
