The discipline of working equitation was created to celebrate the partnership between horse and rider with a focus on versatility, agility, athleticism and training. Open to all breeds of horse and levels of rider, Australian National Working Equitation upholds the principles of classical dressage.
Working equitation was pioneered by four countries: Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France, with the first International competition being held in 1996. In 2004, the World Association for Working Equitation was established to govern the sport internationally. Since that time, the sport has continued to grow around the world.
Working Equitation is one of the fastest growing horse sports in Australia. Combining dressage, obstacles (known as Style), obstacles at speed (known as Speed) and where possible a Cattle phase (similar to team penning), it truly tests rider and horse on many different levels.
Due to the popularity of this new and exciting sport there are now several official clubs in Queensland – South Burnett, Darling Downs, Logan, Brisbane Southern Districts, Tri-valley, Noosa District & Samford.
Each club hosts training days, non-official and official competitions throughout the year which are listed on the clubs own Facebook page or their website.
The Ease of Handling and Speed phases are done with set obstacles. The cattle phase is optional and if it is run the scores count towards a team placings only, not for individual placings.
The official shirt for competition is the long sleeved navy pin spot ones. There are separate men’s and woman’s designs and fits.
The membership for the Australian National Working Equitation (ANWEL) is separate to SEG and is for a financial year. It is $25 for the year and required if you wish to compete at any official competitions or attend other ANWEL club events or training.
Whether you ride in an English saddle, a stock saddle, a traditional bridle, split reins or a bit-less bridle… you are welcome.
For training days you must have an approved helmet, at competitions your tack must match (ie all english, all western, all stock horse etc). Note there are some bits not permitted, check the ANWEL rule book for this.
Click HERE to go to WEHorse website.
SEG members get 30% discount on annual subscriptions. Email we@samfordequestriangroup.com.au to get your code.
Need Help?
Text Kate – 0423 883 303 or Email – we@samfordequestriangroup.com.au
As of the 1st July 2016, updated biosecurity regulations were put in place. They require all horse movements to be tracked and all properties where horses are kept to be registered and have a PIC number. For more information, please click here.
The Samford Showgrounds
39 Showgrounds Drive
Highvale QLD 4520
Based in the Samford Valley at Highvale (just north of Brisbane) we hold regular competition, education and training events throughout the year attracting a diverse audience of horses and riders.
