The Bright and District Pony Club, located in Alpine Shire, is a thriving sports club dedicated to promoting and nurturing equestrian skills in the community. The club hosts rallies on the 3rd Sunday of every month, where members are provided with comprehensive lessons covering various riding techniques, jumping, and games. The club also frequently arranges demonstrations on safe horse handling, such as safe floating and natural horsemanship. Additionally, special training rallies are held on the first Saturday of each month, featuring flat lessons and jumping lessons.
The grounds of the Bright and District Pony Club are truly magnificent, boasting a 60 × 20 metre sand dressage arena, a 130 × 80 metre all-purpose sand arena, and an 80 × 50 metre sand showjumping arena. These arenas are used in conjunction with the Alpine Adult Riding Club, and provide ample space for members to train and practise their equestrian skills.
The club recently purchased new showjumps from a local supplier, Virginnia Armstrong, based at Doc's Park. This exciting acquisition allows the club to host amazing competitions in the near future. The club has also been actively participating in various competitions, with members representing the club at state-level events in dressage, show jumping, and eventing. Many club members have achieved notable placings in jumping, dressage, and eventing competitions.
In addition to its focus on training and competition, the Bright and District Pony Club also hosts special events and activities. One of the notable events is the Bright High Country Endurance Ride, an annual event celebrating its 25th year. Despite the wet weather, the ride attracted riders from Victoria and New South Wales. The ride offered various prizes, including rugs, medallions, and spot prizes.
Club members also had the opportunity to participate, with two members, Bridie and Taylor, successfully completing the ride and passing the vet check. Bridie received the George Auger Trophy and an amazing horse medical kit in memory of Dr. Alan Newman.
The club's facilities are well-equipped to cater to various needs. In addition to the sand arenas, the club boasts 30 steel yards, allowing overnight camping for competitors. The yards provide incredible views, with all 30 steel yards being double rails and 6 wooden yards available. Bookings are essential for utilising these facilities.
The Bright and District Pony Club extends its sincere gratitude to its current sponsors, including Bendigo Bank Bright (major sponsor), Dawsons Rural Supplies, Beechworth Bakery, Aussie Rimshine, Burrow and Nest, Mayford Wines, and AGL. These sponsors play a crucial role in supporting the club's activities and ensuring its continued success.
Whether you are an experienced rider looking for further training and competition opportunities or a beginner eager to learn the art of horse riding, the Bright, and District Pony Club welcomes you. Join the club and become a part of a vibrant equestrian community focused on promoting safe and skilled horsemanship in a picturesque setting.