AQHA Magazine September / October 2020 | Page 40

PG.38 DIRECTOR REPORTS - 2020/2021 JOANNE GREGORY - Portfolio: Judging We have seen major changes come into effect this year with the judging portfolio. We have introduced on-line judging refreshers for our existing judges rather than them having to attend seminars that are often far away from their home towns and can be quite expensive to attend. We have also introduced the on-line judges testing for applicant judges where they can complete their theory and video exams on line in their own homes then they are required to co judge three shows with an existing judge to complete their testing. I feel that this is a huge step forward for the association and moves us into the world of technology and convenience and hope we get more people wishing to sit for their AQHA judging accreditation. I would like to thank the office staff, Carol Ricketts and my judging subcommittee, Lee Ann Hall and Shane Massingham for their assistance in getting this project off the ground. Please feel free to talk to me if you require more information on this new initiative. Joanne Gregory LORELEI PAYNE - Portfolio: Non Traditional The year that was. Due to the Australian Hardship of Drought and then COVID hit with a punch..! It’s has been a very hard year for everyone trying to just get out to show their horses. The Non Traditional Sub Committee and I have been working hard to produce a new Non Traditional video combining footage from Q19 and extra vision at Q21 to show the different between Hacks and Show Hunters. Covering the difference in attire, presentation of the horses, workouts and much more. The video will be a great asset to have for all the finer details of these non traditional classes. Let’s hope the 2021 is great. Lorelei Payne NICOLE DAVISON - Portfolio: Youth I’m sure you will all agree that this has been a year like no other that we have experienced. But I am proud to say that our members, including our youth have been able to adapt to many challenges and changes that have been faced over the last 12 months. Unfortunately our Youth team selected to represent Australia at the Youth World Cup were unable to compete due to the COVID breakout, which was extremely disappointing for them all, but our focus is on the future now and plans are underway for our Trans-tasman event next year. I would like to congratulate all of our High Point competitors for this year, and acknowledge the time, effort and sacrifice that comes along with it. With events in some states beginning again, it has been great to see the number of youth attending and we appreciate the support of their families during these tough times. I would also like to make special mention that it is lovely to see so many of our more seasoned youth welcoming new members and representing our Association and being great role-models for the younger members coming through the ranks. Thank you to all of our youth for your dedication to your sport and this wonderful breed, and we look forward to seeing you all in a much brighter season in 2021. Nicole Davison www.aqha.com.au AUSTRALIAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION - WWW.AQHA.COM.AU