2007 Queensland Festival of Dressage

Report by Tracy Mayhew, Qld Cyberhorse Rep

Cyberhorse was extremely proud to be able to sponsor the 'Seminar Tent' which was located outside the indoor arena near the many popular and well-frequented tradestalls. Here, MC Colin Zeller again did an outstanding job introducing the seminar speakers. Col is a whizz with public speaking and did an absolutely brilliant job enticing the crowd with his dulcet tones.

The day started at 9am with Liz Owens giving an insightful talk on nutrition. There was a good-sized crowd of interested attendees and even though the overhead projector misbehaved (probably the only thing that went wrong on the day, which just goes to show you how well it went!), Liz managed to get across all the information she wanted and made the talk informative and lively.

Liz Owens prepares her talk on "Feeding the Dressage Horse"

Next up was Todd Cunningham from Equestrian Land Developments. Todd is a very popular identity up in Queensland and great supporter of the Qld Young Rider Squad. He is known for his professionalism and all-year-round rideable arenas. I, myself, am lucky enough to have a "Todd arena" and it's the best money I've spent on my property - not only does it look great, but it rides like a dream!

Todd Cunningham from Equestrian Land Developments giving his talk on "Building a Dressage Arena"

Successful rider and trainer, Tor Van Den Berge gave an entertaining and no-nonsense presentation on dressage training tips and was a great crowd draw. Those who know Tor know of his riotous sense of humour and today, he was 'on form'. His simple approach and method to dressage training was inspiring and helped debunk a lot of dressage myths.

Tor Van Den Berge giving his talk on "Dressage Training Tips from the Professionals"

Unfortunately I missed Richard Baker's talk on 'Presenting the Dressage Horse' but heard it was illuminating - no doubt the word "bling" was mentioned once or twice! Richard is from Horseland Nerang.

The afternoon seminars kicked off with a presentation from vet, Brian Sheahan BVSc MACVSc. Brian has been part of the veterinary team for various World Cup squads and again, his talk proved to be another crowd-pleaser.

Brian Sheahan, "Understanding How to Keep your Performance Horse Sound"

There is no one better in Queensland than the next presenter to give a talk on "Tips for Travelling Horses Safely" than Squad Member, Claire Wallace. Claire lives up in Rockhampton and has to travel six hours just to get to Brisbane dressage events! She and her FEI horse 'Liaison, have done this trip more times than she possibly cares to remember and goes to show you her dedication and enthusiasm for the sport of dressage.

Claire Wallace sharing "Tips for Travelling Horses Safely"

Next up was the much-anticipated presentation from saddle-fitting expert, Graham Aitken from Aitken's Saddlery. Graham is a member of The Society of Master Saddlers and he and daughter Tracey, also a qualified saddler fitter, are in high demand from fastidious horse-owners all over the State who want to make sure that their saddle is correctly fitted.

Graham Aitken from Aitken's Saddlery who gave an insightful talk on saddle and bridle fitting

Nicole Magoffin offered her gorgeous FEI star, Jaybee Anzac to 'model' for the saddle fitting

Again, I couldn't get to all the seminars and missed Linda Shore's talk on "How to Put a Freestyle Together" but no doubt it was helpful for those who would like to put a Kur together.

The last presentation for the day was given by Qld Young Rider Squad members, Jayden Brown and Victoria Welch. These two young riders are extremely successful and accomplished dressage competitors and between them, have won many State and national championships. Even as the sun was setting and dusk was kicking in, they drew an impressive crowd and gave a very interesting talk and some invaluable advice on what prospective young riders need to do to get a place on, as well as the expectations and obligations of being a member of, the Young Rider Squad.

Left: Jayden Brown and Victoria Welch gave a comprehensive talk on "All about the Young Rider Squad"

Main Report

Page 3 - Action from the Indoor Arena

Page 4 - Fashion Show

Page 5 - Ridden Stallion Display

Page 6 - Special Mentions and Personalities

© Cyberhorse 2007 Tracy Mayhew