Sherwood Little Rides: Dion Bradshaw’s hobby horse turns pony-riding business

A Brisbane mum has turned a hobby horse into a full-time job with her pony-riding business.

A Sherwood paddock has been transformed into a wonderland for pony riders. Sherwood Little Rides started in October and owner Dion Bradshaw says she has been busy with parties and rides ever since.

Q&A:

DION BRADSHAW, 39

Sherwood Little Rides owner

What’s new with you?

In October I started a pony-riding business – Sherwood Little Rides. It’s been a dream of mine and one I am so passionate about. Seeing the smiles on the faces of little children makes me so happy.

Sherwood Little Rides owner Dion Bradshaw with Wilbur the goat and 'Dash'. Picture: AAP/Renae Droop

I wanted others to be able to come and ride the ponies and to do something fun with our huge paddock so close to the city. Also, I had my fourth (and last!) baby, Violet, earlier this year and recently returned to work as a university tutor in law one day a week.

How did that come about?

When the paddock behind our house became vacant, I mentioned to my husband that I wanted to get a pony for the kids and myself. He said no, of course. It took some convincing but eventually he came around to the idea! We live in suburbia and it didn’t take long to realise that kids in the area would want a ride too.

That’s quite a switch from law …

It’s a dream to turn a hobby into a job and to do something for the love of it. It fills up my cup to see kids enjoy the ponies. I love working with horses and ponies, their presence is somehow calming and brings me into the present moment.

What happens at the pony parties?

Party guests can ride the ponies for an hour and brush our adorable miniature horse, Poppy. They can also feed and pat the goats, Wilbur and Franklin. The rest of the time is spent playing with their friends in the colourfully decorated secret garden, where they can go on the swings, build a hut or paint a unicorn picture. Dottie and Dash are my other beloved carrot-loving ponies.

What is it about animals that you love?

As a young girl I was drawn to horses, as so many are! I begged for a horse and on my 13th birthday I finally got one. Thanks Mum. Now that I am a parent, I completely understand the sacrifice this involved for my family. All those early mornings to get my horse ready for pony club, the daily commitment of feeding and grooming them … the cost!

Who or what inspires you?

I try and take inspiration from the people I see and meet every day – people who remain kind and positive even though they are facing tough times. Those who do favours or thoughtful gestures, despite having full and busy lives. I have neighbours and friends who constantly try to be there for others and help others without expecting anything in return. I take inspiration from their generosity.

What was your ‘aha’ moment?

I usually have one each morning after the third coffee. It’s that moment when the day ahead seems achievable. That usually fades by midafternoon. In terms of my business, I realised I wanted to give it a real go when I had so many little volunteers wanting to trial the pony rides before we’d opened for business.

Your favourite spot to ride in Brisbane?

There is nothing better than walking the kids to school on a pony. They are always up and dressed early on the days we ride to school, which is usually on Wednesdays for active school travel.

What’s next for you?

Coffee. And chocolate is always on my mind. However, with Sherwood Little Rides I’d love to see more kids come and experience the animals hands on.