with Heidi Bast travelling from Victoria to take out both Level 1 and 2 aboard Einsteins Lieserl. Sponsors included Uneek Solutions, Booroondarra Pastoral Co, and Kathleen Murphy’ s Checkout Hollywood.
Friday concluded with the Futurity classes, a highlight of the event. Matthew Clifford riding Gunner Be Lena claimed all three Open levels and the Joyce Olsen Memorial Perpetual Trophy, with great excitement from breeders Julian and Ben. Sponsors included Thomas Arena Products, John Wicks Team, and Backhouse Training Stables, with support from Rufnit Ranch and The Rug Vet. In the Non-Pro Futurity, proudly sponsored by Hygain, Christine Williams riding Delta Gotagun was Champion across all three levels, with Karen and Devin Lowe( LSAR) as Reserve. Saturday morning commenced with the Intermediate Open and Non-Pro. Donnie McLaughlin riding Wonder Woman claimed the Open, while Tracey Bailey riding Flirts Fancy Step won the Non-Pro.
Additional highlights included Maria Leppert winning the Rookie Professional aboard Ill Be Back. The Dry Work classes followed, with Rachel Jones winning the Encouragement on Spice and Spark, and Tania Powell / Gibson taking the Open on Bear With Me. Youth classes saw Isabella Bailey win the 13 & Under aboard Blondiesgottagun, while Layla Gould riding Hes Armed With Chrome claimed the 14 – 18 years and the Graham Hargreaves Memorial Perpetual Trophy. The ever-popular Green Rider classes followed, with Tammy Rogers winning Level 1 and Rachel Jones taking out Level 2. The Beginner Ranch Riding classes wrapped up the daytime program, with Adrienne Ley and Amelia Richards claiming wins.
Following a short Opening Ceremony where Karen Lowe acknowledged our sponsors and committee, the show built to its final feature events. The week concluded with the prestigious Open Derby, proudly supported by Major Gold Sponsor High Country Sheds & Carports. John Wicks riding Whiza Lil Cash claimed the Level 4 title, while Kailie Mudge riding Einsteins Dunit Downunder won Levels 2 and 3. The Non-Pro Derby, sponsored by Totally Building Maintenance, saw Marni Baker riding Wouldn’ t It Be Nice take out all levels. And just like that, it was done and dusted.
Behind the scenes, the success of the show was driven by the dedication and hard work of the Reining Queensland Committee and volunteers. With the recent coming together of QRHA and SQRHA, the team worked within a significantly shorter timeframe to deliver an event of this calibre an incredible achievement led by the State Show Committee under Karen Lowe.
A special thank you to Gita Thomas for her outstanding digital artwork, which so beautifully captured the essence of the event, and to Mel Castle for ensuring it was shared for the world to see their tireless efforts were invaluable. A special acknowledgement must go to Reining Queensland President Natalia Kritikou, whose dedication over a number
of years has played a key role in shaping the direction and strength of the organisation.
The time, vision, and persistence invested are clearly reflected in the continued growth and success of events such as this. Natalia also worked behind the scenes, wearing a few different hats but, also working hard to keep social media updated throughout the week, ensuring everyone stayed connected and engaged as the event unfolded.
A huge thank you to our gate crew and tractor drivers Devin Lowe, Shane Davies, Errol Thomas, and Tasso Kritikou and to Darryl Barr and the QSEC team for their outstanding work, particularly in preparing the arena surface for the Derby.
From the best seat in the house, our judges Steve Withers and Jo-Ann McConnell, along with scribes Chris Wales, Taryn Thompson, Nat Kritikou, Steve Conn, Ada Ellis, and Devin Lowe, played a vital role in the smooth running of the event. Thank you also to our Bit Judges, Tania Powell / Gibson, Lynda Gray and Errol Thomas.
Thank you to Joe McInally for his video and livestream coverage, and Ken Anderson for his exceptional photography. A special shout out to our favourite announcer, Julian Kingsford, whose professionalism and personality added to the fantastic atmosphere throughout the week.
Finally, thank you to everyone who pitched in there are too many to name, but every contribution was valued and appreciated. And last but certainly not least, please support those who support us. We simply cannot run events of this calibre without our valued sponsors.
Non Pro Futurity- Christine Williams and Delta Gotagun Q-97947
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NEXT STOP: 2026 PACIFIC COAST REINING SPECTACULAR 15-20 JUNE 2026
2026 AQHA YEARBOOK ~ MAY / JUNE ISSUE