Donald and District Pony Club has been an important and prominent grassroots sporting club for a number of years.
In this time, many equine enthusiasts have started at this club, learning the basics before heading on to further challenges within the horse community.
Although Donald’s pony club is small, its members are from diverse backgrounds, and different age groups, coming together to share a common interest – horses! Riding is their sport of choice; their way to keep active in body and healthy in mind. And it is not just children learning the basics of the sport to eventually pursue their interest further; members range up to the age of 80 and a number of DPC’s riders are mature adult riders.
Donald Pony Club has been so fortunate to find a fantastic riding coach, in Horsham’s Corrie Potter, who fits so well with the riders, parents and horses, and is willing to attend regular rallies at Donald. Corrie has been instructing at the club for some time now and with her coaching and encouragement, most of the riders braved their first show in 2023 (also supporting the local P. and A. Society). Some members might be learning the basics for the first time, others are returning to riding after having children, or illness/disability; whatever your level or ability, Corrie can be flexible to meet different training needs.
Following a fundraising campaign and volunteer services providing children’s entertainment at the Donald Cup, DPC has secured Corrie’s services for the year ahead, ensuring memberships and rally fees stay at an affordable price for all members. Members of the club sincerely thank Donald and District Racing Club and the Racecourse Reserve committee for their generous donations and support.
Pony Club Australia is currently switching memberships over to align with the financial year, therefore, the beginning of this year presents a unique opportunity for potential members to the club. Memberships are available until June for those wanting to try pony club out, but might be unsure of making a 12-month commitment to start with – this is the perfect time to come along!
The club will be meeting back at its first rally for 2025 on Sunday, February 16. Though group usually meets on the first Sunday of each month, a change of date was required to avoid the heatwave forecast for the initial rally date. It is hoped the weather will be kind for members to return on this date for 2025, however, those interested in attending should keep an eye on the Facebook page for current notifications, or get in touch with Jill McEwen 0428 915 269 for more information.