Maleny & District Horse and Pony Club

14/02/2025

What an awesome story 💚

"I don't particularly like walking, it's boring, really boring and I certainly can't jog anymore which is why riding is so good

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyne18rgkgo.amp?fbclid=IwY2xjawIcj2pleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfKFPsiuVzjp4xlEHRLNw-9bDQWkFlRNHEKG_OlU0BYlhhrwcsLYuJkGKw_aem_VMjiguOGSvSGxWVl99y7KQ

Elizabeth Breton says she finds walking boring and so goes horse riding twice a week.

14/02/2025

Good luck to our riders competing tomorrow.

12/02/2025

Your horse gives their all, but are you recognising when they’ve had enough? Fatigue and overwork can creep up gradually, so it’s important to watch for signs, including:

🔹 Lethargy – Your horse feels dull, lacks energy, or doesn’t respond as usual.

🔹 Poor recovery – Their breathing and heart rate take longer than normal to return to resting levels.

🔹 Reduced interest in surroundings – They may seem withdrawn, less responsive to aids, or even reluctant to keep going.

The workload you ask of your horse must match their age, size, strength, and fitness. Pushing a horse beyond their capability can lead to injuries, stress, and long-term performance setbacks. If you're unsure whether your horse is coping, ask your coach—it’s always better to stop early than risk overdoing it.

A well-managed horse stays sound, happy, and ready to enjoy their work for years to come. Listen to them, and they’ll give you their best!

📸 Here's a great example of horse care in action! Mia from Beverley Horse and Pony Club - WA looks after her horse's welfare by loosening Rosie's girth after a round of games and novelty events.

08/02/2025

Join us for our March Muster with Guest Instructor Rebel Morrow!

Rebel is an Australian Olympic eventing rider. She competed at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens where she finished 11th in the individual and 6th in the team competition.

You are able to choose your preferred discipline: Dressage, Show Jumping or Cross Country.

$45 per person + $10 lunch. Proof of membership required. Cash or card on the day accepted. Email [email protected] to confirm your spot and discipline.

05/02/2025

This is a great read. Our horses should always come first.

A 2017 study, 𝘕𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘜𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘌𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘚𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 – 𝘈𝘯 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘺 by Orla Doherty et al., examined the effects of noseband tightness in competition horses.

The study found that 44% of competition horses in dressage and eventing had nosebands tightened so much that it was impossible to insert the ISES taper gauge under the noseband, effectively classified as zero fingers’ tightness. Only 7% of nosebands were fitted at the recommended level of two fingers’ tightness.

The widespread use of restrictive nosebands raises concerns about potential welfare consequences for horses.

⚠️ 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿-𝗧𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗡𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

The study highlighted several potential consequences of excessive noseband tightness, including:

𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀: Tight nosebands exert high pressure on the soft tissues of the face, particularly over prominent bones such as the nasal and jaw bones. This pressure can lead to discomfort, pain, and tissue damage.

𝗧𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲: Research suggests that sustained pressure above 350 mmHg can cause tissue damage. Some tight nosebands have been recorded exceeding 1,400 mmHg, well beyond the threshold for safe pressure levels. The pressures exerted by tight nosebands can exceed levels known to cause pain and tissue damage in humans and other animals.

𝗡𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Excessive compression of facial nerves can lead to neural damage. In extreme cases, this may result in denervation, which can cause a loss of sensation in parts of the face. Trigeminal neuritis, a condition linked to head-shaking in horses, has also been associated with nerve compression.

𝗕𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗨𝗹𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: When the mucosa inside the horse’s mouth is pressed against sharp molars due to a tight noseband, ulceration and laceration may occur, causing pain and potential infection.

𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: Horses use mouth movements to respond to bit pressure, adjust the position of the bit, and express discomfort. Overly tight nosebands can prevent these behaviours, potentially leading to increased stress and discomfort.

𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: The study referenced concerns that tight nosebands may restrict nasal expansion, which could impact a horse’s ability to breathe freely, particularly during strenuous exercise.

01/02/2025

A fabulous morning at our first Muster for the year (video to follow).

We had a flat work lesson with Melissa Flood Equine Instruction , a pole work and jump lesson with and obstacle course with .

A huge thanks to our wonderful Instructors 💚

Welcome to all our wonderful new riders and families and welcome back to our familiar faces and dedicated vollies. Looking forward to an incredible programme for 2025!

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29/01/2025

Great advice! 💫💚

When we think about horse welfare, we often focus on physical health—proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a suitable living environment. However, an equally important aspect of welfare is mental stimulation. Horses are intelligent, curious animals that thrive when given the opportunity to engage with their environment in varied and enriching ways.

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗺𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

In the wild, horses are constantly exploring new terrain, interacting with other horses, and responding to environmental stimuli. Domesticated horses, however, often lead much more structured lives, with limited variety in their daily routines. A lack of mental engagement can lead to boredom, stress, and even behavioural problems such as weaving, crib-biting, or excessive spookiness. Just as humans benefit from new experiences and challenges, so too do horses.

𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗮: 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁

It’s easy to fall into the habit of riding in a familiar, controlled environment like an arena, especially for riders who may feel anxious about venturing out. While the arena is a great place for structured schooling, keeping your horse confined to the same repetitive routine can limit their exposure to different sights, sounds, and situations.

Horses that are only worked in an arena may become overly reactive when finally taken outside because they haven’t been gradually desensitised to new experiences. Additionally, the constant repetition of schooling exercises without variation can lead to frustration, resistance, and even learned helplessness in some horses.

𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

If the thought of riding out makes you nervous, you’re not alone! Many riders feel more secure in an arena, but with the right approach, you can introduce more variety into your horse’s work while building your own confidence. Here are some ways to make the experience enjoyable for both of you:

💎 Start Small: If your horse is not used to riding outside the arena, begin with short outings. A short walk around the property or down a quiet track is a great way to start.

💎 Go with a Friend: Riding with a calm, experienced horse and rider can help your horse (and you!) feel more confident.

💎 Groundwork First: If you or your horse feel nervous about a new area, start by leading them on foot. This allows them to become comfortable with their surroundings before being ridden.

💎 Incorporate Variety in Everyday Rides: You don’t have to go on long trail rides to introduce variety. Try using poles, small jumps, or changing up the routine within your schooling sessions.

💎 Trust the Process: It’s normal to feel apprehensive about new experiences, but with time and consistency, both you and your horse will gain confidence. Celebrate small wins and progress gradually.

𝗔 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗲𝗿, 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲

Providing mental stimulation through diverse activities—whether it’s trail riding, hacking out, groundwork, or even trying new disciplines—creates a more balanced and content horse. A mentally engaged horse is less likely to develop stress-related behaviours and will be more willing and cooperative in their work. By stepping outside of the arena and incorporating variety into your riding, you are not only improving your horse’s well-being but also strengthening the bond you share.

So next time you saddle up, consider swapping one of your arena rides for a bush trail, a ride around the paddock, or even a new pattern of exercises. Your horse will thank you for it!

29/01/2025

Muster this Saturday - 1st February

8am Gear Check, for 8:30am start - approx 1pm

A fun day planned with guest instructor Melissa Flood teaching dressage/flatwork lessons.
As well as jumping, polework and more.

Don’t forget to bring:
-Hay & a water bucket
-PCA Approved gear
-Filled out Horse Health Declaration form
-$25 muster fee

21/01/2025

Some snaps from our Come and Try day on Saturday.
Welcome to all our new and returning members 🤗 🐎.

Our first muster is February 1st and we will have the wonderful Melissa Flood as a guest instructor.

18/01/2025

Looking forward to seeing you all this afternoon!

17/01/2025

Good luck to all our members competing at Caboolture Summer Series this weekend

12/01/2025

A massive THANK YOU to everyone that came and helped at our Working Bee this morning. It was a huge job, but our shed, equipment and yards are gleaming and ready for an awesome 2025.

Our first event is our Come Try Day next Saturday 18th Jan 3.00-5.30pm. We'd love to see you there. Email the team if you'd like to participate [email protected] 💚

https://www.facebook.com/share/15s6BBivAK/

Pony Club Queensland Zone 6 Pony Clubs

05/01/2025

So many great events this year to practice and hone your skills! 🙌🌟🐎💚

🥳 Zone 6 2025 Dates!
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Put these in your calendar.
Clubs - Please DM the page if you have event dates that you want added to the list 😁
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*Please note: Dates are subject to change.
References: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w0P6Lo-MqxURjyoc-rZT86TXJEHQVXJU/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104248227564606058793&rtpof=true&sd=true
https://ponyclubqld.com.au/whats-on/
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January
✨ Jan 12th - YDPC Jumping Clinic
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February
✨ Feb 1st - Nambour Pony Club Official Showjumping
✨ Feb 2nd - Nambour Pony Club Official Jumping Equitation
✨ Feb 9th - YDPC Dressage Clinic
✨ Feb 22nd - Zone 6 Equitation
✨ Feb 23rd - Zone 6 Showjumping
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March
✨ March 2nd - Maroochy Dressage
✨ March 8th - Gympie Equitation
✨ March 9th - Gympie Showjumping
✨ March 15th - Equitation Clinic Zone 6
✨ March 16th - Equitation Clinic Zone 6
✨ March 23rd - Maleny Combined Training
✨ March 23rd - PCQ Zone Teams Sporting Challenge
✨ March 29th - Gympie Dressage
✨ March 30th - Gympie Combined Training
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April
✨ April 6th to 9th - PCQ State JE and SJ Championship Date
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May
✨ May 3rd - Zone 6 Judges Clinic
✨ May 4th - Zone 6 Judges Clinic
✨ May 17th - Mooloolah Dressage
✨ May 18th - Mooloolah Combined Training
✨ May 24th - Zone 6 Dressage
✨ May 25th - Zone 6 Combined Training
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June
✨ June 1st - Widgee Sporting Gymkhana
✨ June 8th - Glasshouse Showjumping
✨ June 15th - Kia Ora Sporting Gymkhana
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July
✨ July 6th to 12th - PCQ State Dressage, Combined Training and Horse Trials Championships | Hosted by Tiaro Pony Club | Venue: Maryborough Showgrounds
✨ July 20th - Cooroy Formal Gymkhana
✨ July 27th - Mooloolah Formal Gymkhana ​
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August
✨ Aug 3rd - Pomona Sporting Gymkhana
✨ Aug 10th - Widgee Campdraft
✨ Aug 17th - YDPC Combined Training Clinic
✨ Aug 24th - Glasshouse Formal Gymkhana ​
✨ Aug 30th - Maleny Oldies Day
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September
✨ Sep 6th - Tewantin Noosa Dressage & Combined Training
✨ Sep 6th to 7th ​ - PCQ Masters | Venue: Rosewood
✨ Sep 7th - Maroochy Showjumping
✨ Sep 13th to 14th - Gympie Eventing
✨ Sep 21st ​ - Kia Ora Showjumping
✨ Sep 26th to 29th - PCQ State Formal Gymkhana, Sporting, Stockman's Challenge & Campdraft Championships
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​October
✨ Oct 3rd - Yandina Mega Weekend
✨ Oct 4th - Yandina Mega Weekend
✨ Oct 5th - Yandina Mega Weekend
✨ Oct 5th - Zone 6 Formal Gymkhana
✨ Oct 6th - Yandina Mega Weekend
✨ Oct 12th - Nambour Sporting Gymkhana
✨ Oct 17th to 19th - Zone Teams Showjumping | Venue:
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November - TBC
December - TBC