Easing of restrictions gives regional riders glimmer of hope

Riders in regional Victoria are a step closer to being able to compete and train, with clubs hopeful of running competitions and activities.

HORSE riders in regional Victoria took one step further towards being able to compete — or at least train — when DHHS rules were eased from last week.

Members residing in reg­ional Victoria may now ride off property, have riding lessons and attend club rallies and activities subject to the following conditions.

They can now ride off property with members of their household or in groups of up to 10 plus an instructor if required, ride outdoors at agistment properties or equestrian centres subject to owner/manager requirements and participate in outdoor training/coaching activities with members of the same household or in groups of up to 10 riders plus the instructor.

Being able to travel unlimited distances within regional Victoria means that people who don’t have their horse at home can drive to where it is agisted and to take it to train with their coach.

Victorian Show Horse chairman Peter Heagney said this gave clubs confidence that they would be able to commence competitions in the foreseeable future.

“To this end, EV Showhorse is already organising clinics in regional areas to enable riders to get their horses out,” he said.

The Northern Showjumping Club at Shepparton is holding a training clinic with top coach Jamie Coman, but strictly for members only.

Lizzy Schirmer, organiser of the famous Dressage and Jumping With the Stars, which was cancelled, is hopeful.

“Hopefully, by November, community sport can run and we can hold competition,” Schirmer said.

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