Horsepower
Words Anthony O’brien – Photography Josef Nalevansky
EXPERTS AND BEGINNERS
From the Central Coast Dressage Association (ccdressage.org) to Watagan Equestrian Club (watagan.org.au), riders of all ages and skill levels are welcomed into the local equestrian community with open arms. With numerous clubs, stables and riding schools dotting the landscape, the region is a paradise for those who share a love for horses.
Liz Jeffrey, an avid dressage enthusiast from Holgate, finds companionship and excitement in the thriving equestrian scene, where she has honed her skills and competed alongside fellow riders with her beloved horses Barney and Max. “Our community is broadly spread across the Coast from Mangrove Mountain, Central Mangrove and north to Wyong and Jilliby. There are year-round activities, and the shows go on regardless of the weather – except when there are torrential storms, people will be out riding their horses.”
Point the RAM pick-up truck towards Kulnura, where you will have the opportunity to meet Rod Brown, the esteemed proprietor of Equus Australia. Rod’s impressive expertise in showjumping was prominently displayed during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. At Equus Australia, Rod takes great pride in breeding and training high-performance horses, as well as providing guidance to riders. His exceptional skills have garnered widespread recognition within the industry. In addition to his business pursuits, Rod is dedicated to coaching his talented daughter, Jess, who is an accomplished showjumper. Together, they form an inspiring and highly respected duo in the equestrian community. You can reach Rod via email at equusau@bigpond.com.
One of the most significant events for the equestrian community is the Central Coast Showjumping Club – Winter Championships, held annually at the magnificent Stonewall Equestrian centre in Mangrove Mountain (stonewallequestrian.com.au). This event draws competitors from across the state and is a highlight of the equestrian calendar. “Other events include dressage and eventing competitions, as well as fun days and clinics,” Liz says.
LESSONS AND TRAIL RIDES
Unleash your inner equestrian amid Terrigal’s picturesque countryside at The Outlook Riding Academy (theoutlookridingacademy.com.au). Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, The Outlook has a selection of horses and ponies to accommodate individuals of all ages and abilities. It doesn’t matter if you are new to the horse world or keen to get back into regular riding lessons, The Outlook has the team and horses for you. Prepare to be captivated as you groom and saddle your horse before embarking on a scenic trail ride.
Another haven catering to rookie riders is Matcham Valley Pony Club (matchamvalleyponyclub.com.au). Here, young children and aspiring equestrians flourish in a nurturing atmosphere that cultivates riders’ growth and hones their skills.
Experience horse-riding excellence at Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures, where you can take guided tours through enchanting rainforests and native bushland. With Lead Pony Rides, Gourmet Picnic Tours and more, riders of all abilities can indulge in all sorts of adventurous activities in the incredibly photogenic Glenworth Valley. glenworth.com.au
Coast Kids Horse Riding (coastkidshorseriding.com.au), near Sparks Road, Wyee, offers diverse horse-riding activities and services for all ages and skill levels. There’s a range of programs to suit toddlers to tweenies, including Introduction to Ponies for Tiny Tots. Kids can enjoy Adopt-a-Pony for the Day and Party Ponies for private events.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Central Coast’s equestrian offerings beyond competitions and lessons, where an abundance of trail riding opportunities awaits. One standout is the Ourimbah Creek Mountain Trail, set in a serene valley embraced by the surrounding state forest. From navigating obstacles to traversing diverse terrains, riders can test their horsemanship skills and build a deeper bond with their equine companions. ourimbahcreekmountaintrail.com
WORLD-RENOWNED STUD FARMS
Located discreetly near the bustling town of Wyong lies the world-renowned Lustre Lodge Broodmare Farm, known for its exceptional breeding of thoroughbred horses. Although not accessible to the public, this prestigious stud farm boasts a remarkable track record, having produced in the 2022-23 racing season W.J. Adams Stakes winner Star Patrol while Economics got the money in the Petaluma Heritage Stakes. Alongside its breeding endeavours, Lustre Lodge specialises in thoroughbred horse agistment, offering top-notch services for these magnificent creatures (lustrelodge.com.au).
To experience life on a stud farm for yourself, head to Forest Hill Arabian Stud at Wyong Creek (foresthillarabians.com). Set on 25 hectares, the property gracefully descends to the river, where it boasts a kilometre of picturesque river frontage. The stud offers exceptional facilities, including three barns, two round yards, an eight-horse walker and a treadmill. Accommodation includes various homes and apartments on-site.
SADDLES AND SUPPLIES
For an equestrian store that stocks everything the discerning rider or keen beginner could possibly desire, cast your gaze no further than Aussie Saddlery in Tuggerah (02 4353 8205).
This emporium of equine excellence offers the full array of prestigious brands and will have you galloping ahead with its bespoke services, including saddle fitting, meticulous repairs and clothing. Another highly recommended store is Peats Ridge Equestrian Supplies (0419 270 588).
CUSTOM-MADE HORSE FLOATS
If you’re serious about diving into the world of horse capers, then you’ll need a reliable horse float. And who better to reach out to than Peaceland Horse Floats & Goosenecks? Based in Tuggerah, Peaceland Horse Floats (peaceland.com.au) has a strong presence in Australia and owns its own production facility in China. This allows the family-owned and operated company to control the quality, design and manufacturing process from start to finish. As a result, Peaceland constructs first-rate, custom-made horse floats at affordable prices for its customers.
THE CAR
Experience the all-new RAM 1500 Laramie®, Australia’s premium full-size pick-up truck. This remarkable vehicle combines the practicality of a utility truck with the luxurious comfort, spaciousness and high-end finishes reminiscent of an SUV. With the Laramie® crew cab, your journey becomes akin to a first-class travel experience, ensuring effortless accomplishment of any task at hand.
When it comes to towing horse floats, there’s simply nothing that surpasses the power and capability of the V8 RAM. With a maximum towing capacity of 4.5 tonnes, the RAM 1500 outperforms any mid-size ute by a whole tonne!
Find out more or arrange a test drive at ccram.com.au
