The Riverina Riding Club has been set up and members have so far joined up from places such as Temora, Lake Cargellligo, Griffith, West Wyalong, Narrandera, and Leeton. 

The club encourages riders from the ages of five through to 75 years to join. 

“It has been an exciting time setting the new club up,” member Natalie O’Leary said.

“A group of us were at a competition competing and had the discussion regarding the number of riders in the Riverina who could benefit from having a club that encouraged a supportive environment that promotes both growth in the riders ability and also allows for personal growth.”

Based at the Leeton Jockey Club, the organisation has set up a calendar of events for the membership year which runs from November 1 until the end of October next year. 

There will be structured rallies along with “free use” days as part of the activities planned. 

This will range in activities from dressage protocol days, clinics, games/gymkhana, mechanical cow, horsemanship, showing, working equitation, showjumping clinic, hunter horse preparation, health and nutrition talks.

One of the new members is Sarah Apperley, who can’t wait for the upcoming events. 

She took part in an event on November 11 and said it was the first time out for her and her horse in almost three years. 

“I can’t wait for the next one,” Apperley said. 

The club is encouraging new members to sign up, but to also contribute ideas for rallies. 

“We will do our best to ensure all interest areas and disciplines are covered,” O’Leary said. 

The Riverina Riding Club also has three competitions organised for next year and will look to hold its events in other areas outside of Leeton where possible. 

“We are currently applying for grants to install a full show jumping course, working equitation course and in the long-term to build a clubhouse (in Leeton),” O’Leary said. 

Fundraising for these projects is also underway through chocolate and wood raffles, barbecues and more.

The next rally will be held on Sunday with a trail ride to Graham’s Grave.

For more information on how to join up email riverinaridingclub@gmail.com or call 0458 081 200.

****

While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you’re up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.