Bits: Vale Jack Ruckwood, HOTY cancelled and road use survey
JACK Ruckwood, one of the pioneers of Appaloosa breeding in Australia, has died at age 87. He was a driving force and founding member in the Paint Horse Association, importing the first Overo to be seen in Australia, C-Notes Playboy.
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THE Future Farms sale day on Saturday, August 26, is one not to be missed. There will be a mini masterclass by Olympian Mary Hanna followed by a presentation of sale horses and a few of the competition team on display. If you love beautiful horses, the afternoon is free with live music, bar and finger food. The address is 277 Kennedys Lane, Bolinda, for a 1.30pm start.
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HORSE gear sales have always been a popular winter pastime and this Saturday (August 19) the pre-loved and new gear market will be held at the Shepparton Showgrounds from 1pm to 4pm. Originally the brainchild of Debby Cheesman, who still organises it, the market gives people the opportunity to sell on any gear that has become superfluous, or to buy some really good second hand gear at a reasonable price.
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THE China Pony Club has visited Ryan’s Stables.
“They have been riding and sightseeing while staying at the Yara Balba Equestrian Centre at Mandalong run by Margrete Erling,” Heath Ryan explained.
“We did a dressage display with Mary Nitschke and her wonderful young grand prix horse, Astronomical. We also did a jumping display with Tiani Stewart riding her spectacular young Wimborne Constable mare, Clair de Lune TSE. It was an honour to have them for a couple of hours.”
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EQINE veterinarians say a "massive" shortage is coming, particularly in regional areas.
Martin Dolinschek, who recently took over the position of president of Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA), says the specialist sector is facing a crisis.
“The number of graduates taking up specialist roles continues to diminish in an industry already struggling to attract fresh blood,” he said.
"It's the long hours, the work-life balance and just the danger for some people and, possibly on the other side of the spectrum, the selection of students going into the university system. So, we have a massive vet shortage coming."
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AUSTRALIA’S showjumping riders did well last week on the Global Champions Tour of London, held in the grounds of the historic Chelsea Hospital.
Edwina Tops-Alexander and Toulini Olympic were fourth in the CSI5* 1.45m two phase and eighth in the CSI5* 1.50m speed class.
Chris Burton and Chedington Azzurra won the CSI2* 1.30m and placed eighth in both the CSI2* 1.40m speed classes and Georgina Harvey-Lazarus and Night's Watch were third in the CSI2* 1.15m class.
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THE Northern Territory Show Horse Association has made the difficult decision to cancel their upcoming Horse of the Year (HOTY) event due to very low entries.
“We apologise to our members, sponsors and volunteers. Feel free to contact our committee if you have any questions or concerns via our Facebook messenger.”
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DO you ride, drive or lead horses on or across roads in Victoria?
Animal Care Australia is asking for help putting together current statistics to help it respond to a Victorian government consultation on how the behaviour of motorists towards vulnerable road users has changed since 2020.
To make sure the equestrian community is represented, please complete a 10-minute survey on your experiences.
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