Hibiscus Coast Equestrian Club Inaugural Spring Showcase
Photos Jodan Wicks
On the 30th September and 1st October, the Hibiscus Coast Equestrian Club, AQHA Affiliate, held it’ s inaugural Spring Showcase. The club has worked closely with Mackay Show Precinct and Mackay Regional Council to improve the equine facilities at the show grounds, which are officially the club grounds. Club members have volunteered labour and materials to assist in this endeavour and next year will see the opening of the indoor arena.
The Mackay Mayor, Mr Greg Williamson opened the show with a complementary review for the facility and equestrian community. Hibiscus congratulates him on such forward planning and diverse expansion for Mackay ' s future. The show precinct couldn’ t have been more helpful and the future looks bright for Mackay’ s equestrian community. The grounds boast indoor barn, and yards for horse owners preferred choice of housing for their equines. New wash bays will be part of the new facility, along with the indoor arena which will have it’ s own announcers box, first aid room and tea room. The amenities are second to none and have ensuite convenience. The grassed powered and watered camping area provide a welcome relief for when day is done.
The show was a Multi judged show with Joanne Gregory and Andrew Shield officiating as judges, and we had the wonderful booming voice of renowned announcer Ralph Dunn.
Not only did both the A and AA placings receive prize money, but also received some very grand prizes, that in all totalled $ 7000!
With 50 horses on the grounds, the show kicked off with a great lineup of quality halter horses. The Champions received a stunning garland donated by Springdale Farm. The Galway Boy Champion of Champions crystal vase and luxurious garland was won by the lovely Im So Fancee, owned and shown by Tiffany Walter. Im so Fancee also was in the trio of Get of Sire which was won by Smoochin, who received a sketch by Kiley Tolson!
Catering was delicious beyond words. All home cooked meals and treats! Thanks to our club members.
We can definetely say that this show has set a new standard for the north and next year will see the inclusion of Reining and three year old classes.
Im So Fancee Q-83648, owned and shown by Tiffany Walter
Paige Bennett and GJC Simply Da One Q-76074
Left- Robyn Edgar and QXH Unforgettaball Q-79903 Right- Shanna Coomber and A Lil Somethin Q-70850
Kylie Phillips riding Lynette Hall ' s Ceelebrity Q-81838
Krystee Muscat riding Annlee Top Spot Q-71305
Amateur Profile
Gabrielle Brown
How long have you participated in horse activities: Practically since birth. I ' ve ridden and been involved with horses before I can even remember!
Who / what inspired you to become involved: My parents and grandparents have shown and owned quarter horses for many years. After trying many different disciplines growing up, my parents encouraged me to give western showing a try. I got my first pleasure horse as a teenager, and am glad I did. I ' ve been hooked ever since!
What is your favourite part of the sport: I love the technical aspect of it. There is such a science to training our horses for each specific event, and an art to showing them. It can never be boring and I love the challenge of it. And also the people! I ' ve been lucky enough to have become friends with, and show with some really wonderful people.
Why this sport, instead of another: I think because it is just so addictive! And what other equine sport do you get to dress up and wear amazing blingy jackets in??
What is your practice philosophy: " Perfect Practice makes perfect ", and " You only get out what you put in " I always try to put in 100 %, no matter what.
What does your friends / family think about your hobby: My family are all horsey so are all very supportive! I ' m lucky to have a few close friends who are also horsey, but regardless they are all very encouraging and supportive.
What / who inspires you to reach your goal: Going to shows and watching some of the amazing horses, trainers and competitors go round has always been very inspiring to me. Its amazing how much you can learn but just watching.
Tell us something about yourself that people might not know: I swam competitively, even up to state level for club and regional level for school growing up.
Are you a collector of anything: Boots and Jeans.. My collection is getting out of hand!
What is your favourite colour: Blue
Favourite saying: Is definitely " You only get out what you put in ". It ' s great because it applies to everything in life.
If you could have three wishes granted, what would they be: For all my animals to live forever, to land my dream job after graduating Uni.... and for more wishes!
November • December • 2017 • The Australian Quarter Horse Magazine • Page 19