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Building a Western Community in the Hunter Valley:
THE STORY OF HCQHA
From L-R Leadliner: Eva McCarty and Harry Hypants Q-72099, handled by Michelle Southgate, Judge Carla Cox, Judge Katrina Lewis Isabelle Hicks and Genetically Blessed Q-81566
Peta Southgate and Kirstin Dunncliff have been friends for around eight years, their connection forged when Kirstin – returning to the saddle after a ten-year break – purchased But Wait Its A Breeze Q-59271 from Peta. That sale marked Kirstin’ s introduction to the world of Quarter Horses, while for Peta and her daughter Michelle, Quarter Horses have been a way of life for more than three decades. Both are accomplished DIY Amateurs, well known for their success and long-time support of the Central Coast and Sydney Quarter Horse Associations.
In April 2024, a simple conversation between Peta and Kirstin became the foundation for something bigger. They saw the need for a local club in the Hunter Valley— one that could nurture new competitors, offer supportive opportunities for riders to bring their horses out in a relaxed environment, and grow a western community in the region.
From there, things moved quickly. Michelle Southgate was nominated as President, Peta as Vice President, Kirstin as Secretary, and Rebecca Turner joined as Treasurer. The general committee included Katie Knox, Chey McCarty, and Alyssa Knee. Kirstin registered the association, set up the club’ s Facebook page, and within days community support came flooding in.
To get started, donations rolled in from generous supporters across the industry. Raffles and sponsorship helped cover affiliate fees and prizes, with contributions from Wilkinson Farm Quarter Horses, Neville Jones Performance Horses, RJF Performance Horses, Joanne Gregory, Make it Yourz, Sign ur Neigh’ m, Glam Equine, MJS Equine, Naughty Knots, KLM Paint Horses, Melissa Eeles, Lawrences Garage & Brake Service, Coastal Automotive, JH Designs Jewellery, Light Touch Harmony, The Store Menangle, Jillaroo and Jack- Equestrian Awards and Stickies and Australian Hemp Feeds, to name just a few. The generosity was overwhelming and a clear sign the club was on the right track.
2025 AQHA NOVEMBER / DECEMBER ISSUE