For over 25 years 'Colac' has been a highlight on the Victorian Dressage Calendar.  Over this time the competition has seen tragedy and scandal, there have been tears of happiness and tears of joy, and through it all,   the event has endured to remain a special occasion for those looking to finish the Victorian Dressage competition season on a high note.

From 2001 the Committee have ceased to run FEI classes at this venue.  I was told that the grounds are either too hard or, as has happened in some years when Melbourne has had an Autumn downpour,   the footing turns into a muddy approximation of a skating rink.  The WVDC FEI Classes have been transferred to their own special event which is held in March at the AEA Burong, in Winchelsea.  This  facility is beautifully appointed and therefore ideal for such a competition.

The Western Victorian Dressage Club is the second oldest club in Victoria, steeped in tradition with a hardworking membership that acknowledge their vital role in bringing country Dressage riders,   competitions, training and other activities which will help them develop their skills and further the sport.

This, the 2002 Championship Competition was held in absolutely glorious Melbourne Autumn weather with Saturday being a particularly pleasant day for riding.  Sunday became a little overcast, but fortunately, no rain to spoil things.

There was a very comprehensive program which included Official EFA and Associate classes (unofficial) which gave local riders or those not wanting to register horses so late in the season,  a chance to gain some experience and 'match practice'.  I had a particular interest in these classes as a former pupil of mine (and Colac girl)  Sharna McQuarrie was riding a horse that I bred (she purchased him as an unbroken 2YO) named Hollybrook Prestige.  'Oscar' as he is known, has come a long way since we broke him in three years ago.  Sharna has had help more recently with Sue Smith who is a great instructor and supports many of the riders in the district.

The 'famous' Victorian electronic scoring team headed by Leon Baggott, along with John Juricic and  a new recruit,  Leons nephew,  Jonathon Burnett (who showed a great aptitude for the job) tapped away at their computers to ensure that the scores were posted quickly and accurately.  Leon is on the Committee at WVDC and made a special effort to get the results to us on a daily basis.  Cyberhorse ensured that we had a capable member of the staff (me that is!!) working on Saturday night to post the results shortly after the completion of the day's classes.

'Colac' is a very friendly competition, which is no doubt why it has stood the test of time.  Even with many Victorian clubs opting to hold all, or most of their competitions at Werribee Park, I feel that Colac is one competition which is likely to stay relatively unchanged ... I certainly hope so.

I trust that these pictures will help me to share this great day with all Dressage fans.

The announcers 'booth' was a caravan sited alongside the entrance gate, Glenda is seen here peeking out the window - her microphone and binoculers at the ready!

R. Ball & Son, the local feed merchant were much appreciated for their assistance.