equine report 2012

Regional Development Australia – Ipswich and West Moreton Inc 2012 1

Executive Summary

The Horse Industry in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region is very diverse and continually

evolving. The region is home to a wide range of thriving equine breeding, racing, sport and

recreational activities. The Horse industry is not without its internal and external challenges.

This small study was asked to look at infrastructure and facilities that can be accessed by

equine groups and to detail equine groups operating in the region, including the pleasure

horse and racing sectors. Gaps in the infrastructure available to the equine industry, barriers

to growth and opportunities to grow investment in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

were identified. Possible strategies to develop the industry, recommendations on what a

regional equine strategy should include and how RDAIWM should prepare that are outlined.

The Region does have existing suitable infrastructure for the horse industry that in many

cases requires an upgrade. The region has 5 racetracks, 1 harness track and 14 showgrounds

catering for most equine competitions. Polo takes place on 8 privately owned grounds in the

Scenic Rim. Only Gatton Showgrounds had an indoor riding arena allowing for competition

during wet weather and at night. Most equine facilities are privately owned including

numerous large indoor riding arenas two of which are available for public hire.

The region supports a diverse range of equine groups including race clubs, pony clubs,

equestrian groups, polocrosse clubs, a polo club and several western, campdrafting and rodeo

events. There are numerous studs breeding horses and ponies. There is a thriving business

industry servicing the equine community including farriers, vets, produce stores, saddleries,

riding coaches, horse breakers and trainers and spelling and agistment farms.

Gaps in infrastructure have been identified as the need for more covered riding arenas (roofs

over existing arenas), upgrades in toilet and shower blocks, better yards and stables, lockable

storage areas, secure tenure of land, more and safer trails and evacuation centres.

Barriers to growth in the region include a declining thoroughbred Industry, creeping

urbanisation, limited employment opportunities, equine disease outbreaks, financial factors,

coal seam gas and mining exploration and extraction, cost of hiring infrastructure and a

fragmentation between councils in the region and the horse industry in general.

There is potential to grow investment in the Equine Industry in the Region. As Brisbane

expands, people are moving further south and west seeking more affordable acreage. An

influx of people and the support equine businesses that follow will bring economic benefits.

A comprehensive study of the equine industry in the region should be undertaken by

engaging key stakeholders and involving focus groups. This document provides plenty of

contact details for groups and individuals throughout the region. A four point plan is

suggested to guide the local Councils and the RDAIWM, this being: Maintain, Protect, Support

and Grow. Recommendations on how to proceed with these four points are detailed.


Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………….................................................... .5 2.0 Infrastructure/ Facilities for Equine Groups.............................................................. .6 2.1 Showgrounds ……………………………..........................................................…………..........7 2.1 .1 Gatton Indoor Equestrian Centre ..........................................................…………......... 8 2.2 Racetracks ……………………………………………….....................................................….. .9 2.3 Other facilities .......... …………………………………………………........................................... 10 3. 0 Details of Equine Groups Operating in the Region……….…………………………………….....11 3.1 The Thoroughbred Industry…………………………………………………...................................11 3.1.1 Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association Members ....................................12 3.2 QTIS Thoroughbred Studs Standing Stallions in the Study Region ...........................13 3.3 The Standardbred Industry and Harness Racing .......................................................14 3.3.1 The Standardbred Breeding Industry .......................................................................14 3.4 Pony Club Association of Queensland (PCAQ) ..........................................................16 3.5 Equestrian Clubs …………………………………………………...................................................18 3.6 Interschool …………………………………………….........……...................................................20 3.7 Polocrosse .…………………………………………….........……...................................................20 3.8 Polo …………………………………………….........……..............................................................21 3.9 Campdrafting…………………………………………….........……................................................22 3.10 Rodeo …………………………………………….........……...........................................................23 3.11 Western ....…………………………………………….........…….................................................. .23 3.12 Other Groups ............................................................................................................ 25 3.13 Education .................................................................................................................. 28 3.14 Not for Profit .............................................................................................................28 3.15 Horse Rescue .............................................................................................................29 3.16 Businesses Servicing the Equine Industry ..................................................................30 3.17 Horse by Use in the Non-Racing Sector in the Study Area.........................................33 4.0 Gaps in the Infrastructure available for the equine industry…………………………..........34 4.1 The Racing Industry....................................................................................................34 4.2 The Performance and Recreational Industry..............................................................34 5.0 Barriers to Growing Investment in the Ipswich and West Moreton Equine Industry..36 5.1 The Thoroughbred industry in decline.........................................................................35 5.2 Urbanisation................................................................................................................ 37 5.3 Employment ................................................................................................................37

5.4 Disease ........................................................................................................................37

5.5 Financial ......................................................................................................................39

5.6 Coal Seam Gas (CSG) and Mining ................................................................................39

5.7 Infrastructure ..............................................................................................................39

5.8 Fragmentation ............................................................................................................39

6.0 Opportunities for Growing investment in the Region’s Equine Industry ..…………..……40 6.1 Racing ..........................................................................................................................40 6.2 Regional Town Planning ..............................................................................................41 6.3 Infrastructure ..............................................................................................................41


6.4 Regional Airport .........................................................................................................41 6.5 Agriculture .................................................................................................................41 6.6 Tourism ......................................................................................................................42 6.7 Biotechnology ............................................................................................................42 6.8 Home Based Business ................................................................................................42 6.9 Corporate Governance ..............................................................................................42 7.0 Recommendations ............................................……………….………………………..……….….42 7.1 A Regional Equine Strategy ........................................................................................42 7.1.1 Maintain .................................................................................................................... 43 7.1.2 Protect .......................................................................................................................44 7.1.3 Support ......................................................................................................................44 7.1.4 Grow ..........................................................................................................................44 7.2 Development of a Regional Equine Strategy .............................................................45 8.0 Conclusion.................. ………………………………………………..................…….………..............45 9.0 References...............................................………………………………………………..…….……….47 10. 0 Appendices.................................................................................................................51

List of Tables

Table 1: Show Societies and contact details in the study area

Table 2: Total Number of Pony Clubs and Members for each Council Area

Table 3: Public and Private Schools taking part in the Equestrian Australian Interschool program

Table 4: Campdrafts in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

Table 5: Approximate costs per annum of keeping a horse on own property in the study region

Table 6: Non Racing Horses by Use by Council Area in the Ipswich and West Moreton region

Table 7: Declining Numbers in Thoroughbreds1

Table 8: Licensed Racehorse Trainers in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

List of Figures

Figure 1: Key horse areas within the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

Figure 2: Multi- Use, sharing the same space and facilities - the Kilcoy Race Club and Showgrounds

Figure 3: Percentage of horses in the non-racing sector in each usage category in the study area

Figure: 4 Map showing Equine Influenza Zones - Weekly Situation Report Equine Influenza Response 2

to 8 December 2007


References

References are foot numbered throughout this document and appear at the end under

“References”.

Much of the information pertaining to groups, associations and businesses is from their own

websites and can be found with each corresponding entry throughout the document, rather

than in the reference list.

Contact Details and Personal Information

This report contains many names of individuals and personal contact details. All of this

information was freely available on the World Wide Web; either from the yellow pages on

line or organisations own websites. For this reason some information may be incomplete, or

out of date, only the information available on the website is presented here. It must be noted

that these contact details will only be accurate for a finite period of time and that club

executive and email addresses may change at least annually. A periodic review of

organisation’s web pages is recommended to gain current contact details. The information on

QTIS stallions was from the Queensland Stallions Year Book 2011 which is available free from

selected produce stores.

Disclaimer

Regional Development Australia Ipswich and West Moreton and the author do not guarantee

or make any representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the information in this

report, nor do they accept any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage arising from its

use. They shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person or organisation who

relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report.


1. Introduction

The Horse Industry in Australia is very diverse and has seen dramatic changes during the

twentieth century. In less than 100 years, horse use has changed from being an integral part

of the daily working life of white settlement in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region to being

used exclusively for sport and recreation purposes. This region is now home to a diverse

population of horse breeds used for many horse sports.

The Ipswich and West Moreton Region is ideal for keeping horses, with good grazing land,

good climate, adequate water supplies and close enough to Brisbane and regional centres for

horse owners to access modern necessities of work, education, health care and retail outlets.

Like the horse industry however, the region is also changing. Creeping urbanisation, mining,

coal seam gas exploration and new council and environmental regulations are all threatening

the open spaces required to keep and exercise horses.

One of the biggest threats to the Horse Industry is a lack of understanding by policy makers at

all levels. To policy makers, the Horse Industry is about the people. To horse people, the

Horse Industry is about the horse. Few policy makers are familiar with horses and few horse

owners understand policy. This is perhaps the biggest gap that needs to be addressed to

secure a viable Horse Industry for the Ipswich and West Moreton Region.

The Horse Industry is classed as “Agriculture” in statistical analysis, yet it really encompasses

several other industries: retail (saddleries and feed stores); manufacturing (horse feed mills,

horse rugs etc); animal health care professionals (veterinarians, farrier and horse dentists);

education (riding coaches and university); service industries (horse trainers, alternative health

practitioners and agistment centres); tourism (riding holidays). The Agricultural part of the

Horse Industry really only applies to the breeding of horses and the farming of feed inputs

(lucerne, oats, barley etc). The economics of the racing industry takes in all of the above and

also encompasses, wagering and catering (including the sale of alcohol).

The Racing Sector includes thoroughbred racing and harness racing. The non racing sector is

known as the Performance and Recreational horse industry and represents impressive

numbers. There are approximately 621,000 registered horses in the non-racing sector in

Australia1 or eighty per cent of the total horse population. Horses in the racing industry

account for approximately twenty per cent of all horses. Queensland accounts for

approximately twenty five per cent of Australian horse numbers with a majority of these in

the south east corner. An estimated 44,000 Queenslanders regularly ride horses2. The horse

industry is in a slow decline overall3, yet some regions are attracting horse owners and

experiencing growth. Additionally, the horse industry is contributing more to the economy

than the past, with horses costing more to purchase, maintain and compete.

There are many equine groups operating successfully within the region but many are

experiencing gaps in infrastructure and other barriers that need to be addressed to ensure the

continuation of the horse industry within the region and provide opportunities to grow

investment in the region’s industry.


2. Infrastructure/ Facilities for Equine Groups

Equine Groups require a large area of land to facilitate several riding areas (for both warm up

and competition and to accommodate parking of horse floats and trucks). Other facilities

required on equestrian grounds are not dissimilar to regular sporting clubs, including toilets,

showers, catering facilities, lockable storage areas for equipment (show jumps etc). Horse

specific infrastructure includes stables, yards and horse washing facilities. Potable water is

required for horses to drink. It is preferable for the perimeter of the grounds to be fenced to

prevent horses escaping onto roadways. Where children and beginners are riding a smaller

fenced arena is advisable for safety and control reasons. Shade is also important.

In the Ipswich and West Moreton area there is a good spread of council owned and privately

owned equine facilities. Most privately owned facilities are not available for public hire. There

are some very expensive private facilities in the region including indoor arenas and these are

found in specific key areas, see Figure 1. The popular areas for establishing equestrian

properties are determined by existing land size and use (urban, agriculture or forest) and the

general topography of the area. Distance to competition venues also plays a role.

Figure 1: Key horse areas within the Ipswich and West Moreton Region. Source RDAIWM Roadmap 2011.


2.1 Showgrounds

There are 14 showgrounds in the study area. Scenic Rim has 5, Lockyer 2, Ipswich 3 and 4 in

the Somerset area.

The Showgrounds are multi user venues. They are used for the annual local agricultural show

run by the Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies Inc. (QCAS), but most showgrounds

can be hired to host other equine events throughout the year such as campdrafts.

Showgrounds are often the home grounds for other equine groups such as pony clubs.

The Kilcoy Showground in the centre of the Kilcoy race track is a good example of a multi-use

venue where all groups benefit from the infrastructure. It is home to five user groups who

form the management committee with the Somerset Council: the Kilcoy Race Club, the Kilcoy

Show Society, the Kilcoy Pony Club, Stanley Rivers Polocrosse Club, and the Kilcoy Campdraft.

It is also used by Queensland Working Cow Horse Club. It is however, only used by all of these

groups combined on a total of 20 days a year, still leaving the premises with scope for more

use. It is ideally situated within commuting distance to the employment hub in Caboolture.

Recently the Kilcoy Showground received a $500,000 grant4 from the Federal Government’s

Regional Development Australia fund (RDAF) to be matched by the Somerset Council. This will

be used to develop the Kilcoy Showground Master Plan, with a new pavilion, toilets, showers

and storage areas to be built as well as extra lighting and restoration of the grandstand.

Figure 2: Multi- Use, sharing the same space and facilities - the Kilcoy Race Club and Showgrounds5


The Laidley Showgrounds offer a large grassed area and stables and is home to the Laidley

Pony Club and the Lockyer Polocrosse group.

The Marburg showgrounds are also home to the Marburg Pacing Association, with a harness

racing track around the perimeter.

Rosewood Showgrounds are undergoing redevelopment to become the Rosewood Citywide

Equestrian Centre and Showground6. The grounds will be able to accommodate one

showjumping, campdrafting or polocrosse area or 8 dressage arenas at any one time. There

are new stables planned, with storage areas, measuring bay and wash bay. A sand surface

horse arena with grandstand is also planned, with the ability to upgrade it with a roof.

Table 1: Show Societies and contact details in the study area7

2.1.1 Gatton Indoor Equestrian Centre Pty Ltd

This Indoor Arena and Stables based on the Gatton Showgrounds is owned by the Lockyer

Regional Council. It is available for hire by the hour, day, weekend or week. It is a popular

home base for several equestrian groups within the study area and adjoining areas, including

the Lockyer Equestrian Group and the Clydesdale & Heavy Horse Field Days Association.

Being weather proof it is also very popular for holding clinics with visiting trainers.

Contact: Cam McDonald

Phone: 0428 621 744

http://www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/recreation/equestrian-centre http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gatton-Indoor-Equestrian-Centre/152032031517862

SHOW SOCIETY ADDRESS CONTACT TELEPHONE EMAIL

Canungra & Dist AH&I Society Coburg Road 4275 Shona Adams 0414 676 787 [email protected]

Tamborine Mountain AH&I (Show) Society Main Western Road 4272 Liz Alcock 07 5545 2155 [email protected]

Beaudesert Show Society Albert Street 4285 Andrea McFarlane 07 5541 3200 [email protected]

Boonah Show Society Melbourne Street 4310 Beth Hern 07 5463 1124 [email protected]

Kalbar & District Show Assn 1 GEORGE ST 4309

Anthony ( Tony ) Ward 07 5463 7360 [email protected]

Gatton Show Society Spencer Street 4343 Jane Wilce 07 5462 2577 [email protected]

Laidley A&I Society Cnr Hayes & Cooper Sts 4341 Dalray McCarthy 07 5465 1284 [email protected]

Ipswich Show Society 81 Warwick Rd 4304 Cheryl Fryer 07 3281 1577 [email protected]

Rosewood A&H (Show) Assn Showground Lane 4340 Sandy Lindh [email protected]

Marburg & Dist A&I Assn 45-55 Queen Street 4346 Lyndell Blanch 07 54644132 [email protected]

Lowood Show Society Lindemann's Rd 4311 Janeen Schulz 07 5426 1351 [email protected]

Esk Show Assn Cnr Esk-Hampton Rd & South St 4312 Phil French 07 5424 2814 [email protected]

Toogoolawah Show Society 54 Ivory Creek Road 4313 Lynne Teske 0407 162 458 [email protected]

Kilcoy PA&I Society 5370 D'Aguilar Highway 4515 Margaret Worrall 07 54 972 149 [email protected]

http://www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/recreation/equestrian-centre

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gatton-Indoor-Equestrian-Centre/152032031517862


2.2 Race Tracks

There are 5 thoroughbred racetracks that hold public race meetings in the study area.

Ipswich is classified as a provincial track and holds approximately 46 race meetings each

year these are mainly Friday TAB meetings8. It also holds two Saturday meetings,

including the famous Ipswich Cup. The other race tracks/clubs are classified as country

tracks9 and hold limited meetings each year. They have on site betting with bookmakers, but

are generally not TAB meetings.

Most of the racetracks are also used for the daily exercise of racehorses housed in the vicinity

of the track as there are few privately owned full length tracks. There is a full length grass

track and all-weather track at Patinack Farm, Canungra10.

Marburg Showgrounds has a harness racing track and holds 20 non TAB meetings a year see

page 13 for more information.

IPSWICH TURF CLUB

Brisbane Road,

BUNDAMBA QLD 4304

PO Box 1, IPSWICH QLD 4304

Ph: (07) 3282 1500

Fax: (07) 3816 1020

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.ipswichturfclub.com.au

BEAUDESERT RACE CLUB

Beaudesert Racecourse

Beaudesert-Boonah Rd,

BEAUDESERT QLD 4285

PO Box 84,

BEAUDESERT QLD 4285

Ph: (07) 5541 2999

Fax: (07) 5541 3446


ESK JOCKEY CLUB

Hampton Road

ESK QLD 4312

Ph. (07) 5424 1348

Fax (07) 5424 1838

KILCOY RACE CLUB

D'Aguilar Hwy, KILCOY QLD 4515.

PO Box 185, KILCOY QLD 4515

Ph: (07) 5497 1128

Fax: (07) 5497 1999 Racecourse


LOCKYER RACE CLUB INC

Gatton Racecourse

Burgess Park

Spencer St, GATTON QLD 4343

PO Box 63, Gatton 4343

Mellissa Meldrum

Ph: (07) 54 622 850

Fax: (07) 5462 1698


Web: www.lockyerraceclub.com.au

MARBURG PACING ASSOCIATION

Marburg Showgrounds, Queen Street,

Marburg QLD 4346

Postal Address: PO Box 22, Marburg QLD 4346

President: Graham Harriott


Secretary: Greg Cumberland


mailto:[email protected]

http://www.ipswichturfclub.com.au/




http://www.lockyerraceclub.com.au/


2.3 Other Facilities

Other privately owned facilities that host competitions and equine groups are the Kooralbyn

Resort, Bellara Park and the eight polo fields in the Scenic Rim (for full details see page 20).

Kooralbyn Resort This privately owned property is home to a popular cross country course. Routley Drive, Kooralbyn QLD 4285 Phone: 07 5544 6222

Bellara Park Located at 97 Worendo Street, Veresdale, Beaudesert QLD 4285, this privately owned facility has a large indoor arena available for hire by clubs or individuals. Bellara Park caters for full agistment and training. Chris , Jane and Ben Bell Phone: 07 55432532 Fax: 07 55432532 Email: cdjjbell@bigpond .com http://www.bellarapark.com Palmerston Indoor Arena 2 Anthonys Rd, Walloon Qld 4306 Phone: 07 5464 5538 Listed under “Horse Riding” Ipswich - on Yellow Pages Online.

Polo Fields

http://www.queenslandpolo.com.au/?PageID=75&wp=75

Ashling Polo Field

Bromelton House Field Biddaddaba Creek Polo Club Field

Elysian Fields (South East Qld Polo Club Field) Kooralbyn No. 1 Field

Salisbury Fields

Willowcroft Polo Field

http://www.bellarapark.com/


3. Equine Groups Operating in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

To understand the types of facilities needed by horse owners in this region it is important to

have an understanding of the types of equestrian activities that take place. Within the study

area there is a diverse range of equine groups operating, from the highly regulated

thoroughbred and harness racing, to breeding organisations and studs to competition or

pleasure riding.

There is the traditional Pony Club and Equestrian Australia regulated disciplines (Dressage,

Eventing, Showing, Showjumping). There is also an increase in participation in Western

activities, rodeo and polo as well as the uniquely Australian sports of Campdrafting and

Polocrosse.

Approximately 16% of horse owners do not belong to an equine group or take part in

organised competitive activities preferring trail riding and pleasure riding11.

The Queensland Fair Trading website12 lists 15 groups incorporated within the Ipswich and

West Moreton Region.

Beaudesert Rodeo Club Incorporated

Boonah and Districts Working Horse Association Inc.

Boonah Rodeo Association Inc.

Queensland Horse Industry Alliance Inc.

Scenic Rim Cutting Horse Association Inc.

The Great South East Endurance Riders Club Inc.

Beaudesert Country & Horse Festival Association Inc.

Beaudesert District Thoroughbred Assn Inc.

Beaudesert Branch - The Australian Stock Horse Society Inc.

Scenic Rim Equestrian Club Inc.

The Beaudesert Cutting and Western Performance Club Inc.

Queensland Horse Council Inc.

Ipswich Harness Association Inc.

Pine Mountain And Districts Riding Club Inc

The Young Bloods Harness Racing Association Inc.

There are of course many more groups operating in the region that are incorporated on a

state or national level.

3.1 The Thoroughbred Industry

Horse Racing is an ancient sport practised around the world using a variety of breeds of horse.

Its history in Australia began with white settlement and today uses the thoroughbred breed of

horse. There are 6 race clubs in the study area operating from 5 racetracks as discussed in

2.2. The Beaudesert Hibernian Club is also based at the Beaudesert track9.


3.1.1 Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association Members

With horse racing comes horse breeding and the Scenic Rim is a renowned thoroughbred

breeding area. There are 33 Studs that are members of the Thoroughbred Breeders

Queensland Association (TBQA)13. Of these, 14 are in the study area (42%) -1 in Ipswich, 1 in

Lockyer and 12 in the Scenic Rim. Some of these studs have in excess of 200 horses and

employ many staff.

There are many more Thoroughbred studs in this region that do not belong to TBQA. One of

Australia’s leading studs the Victorian based Eliza Park has recently taken over the leasehold

on Racetree and intends to become a leading player in the Queensland market.

TBQA Member Studs:

Glenlogan Park Innisplain Road, Innisplain via Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: Steve Morley MOBILE: 0428 617 367 Phone: 07 5544 1106 Fax: 07 5544 1273 Email : [email protected] Web: www.glenloganstud.com.au

Royston Stud Innisplains Road, Innisplain Qld 4285 Enquiries: Royston Stud Manager Phone: 07 5544 1269 Fax: 07 5544 1260 MOBILE: Stud Manager 0419 660 180 or Anton Koolman 0414 888 888 Email : [email protected] or [email protected]

Willowbend Stud PO Box 419, Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: David Lucas MOBILE: David 0438 114 134 or Ben 0438 614 134 Fax: 07 3036 6560 Email : [email protected] Web: www.willowbend.com.au

Moranjee Stud 501 Christmas Creek Road, Laravale Qld 4285 Enquiries: Claire Baker MOBILE: 0419 022 469 Phone: 07 5544 2180 Fax: 07 5544 2014 Email : [email protected] Web: www.moranjeestud.com.au

Jacaranda Park Thoroughbreds Lot 2 Lupton Road, Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: Trevor Stevens Phone: 07 5541 3951 MOBILE: 0419 790 305 or 0418 787 518

Secret Hills Farms 624 Cryna Road, Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: Simon Hancock MOBILE: 0406 303 807 Phone: 07 5541 1751 Fax: 07 5541 1823 Email : [email protected] Web: www.secrethill.com.au

Oakwood Farm Linnings Road, Haigslea Qld 4306 Enquiries: Bob Wood or Sheridan Victor MOBILE: Bob 0414 486 562 or Sheridan 0410 683 463 Phone: 07 5464 4100 Fax: 07 5464 4100 Email : [email protected]

Valentine Park Stud 2 Tremayne Road, Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: Rex Leigh or Belinda Little Phone: Rex 07 3288 7623 or Belinda 07 5543 0216 MOBILE: Rex 0405 189 170 or Belinda 0400 842 632 Email : [email protected]

Bailiwick Stud 1146 Munbilla Road, Milora Qld 4309 Enquiries: Gary Weir or John Baker MOBILE: Gary 0400 858 386 or John 0419 475 239 Phone: Gary 07 5467 1771 or John 07 5467 2418 FAX: 07 5467 1771 Email : [email protected]

Monteal Lodge 80 Murphys Creek Road, Postmans Ridge Qld 4352 Enquiries: Gary or Gayle Teal MOBILE: Gary 0407 133 328 Phone: 07 4630 3585 Fax: 07 4630 3664 Email : [email protected]

http://www.glenloganstud.com.au/


http://www.willowbend.com.au/

http://www.moranjeestud.com.au/

http://www.secrethill.com.au/






Racetree Stud 100 Oaky Creek Road, Innisplain Qld 4285 Enquiries: Mark Wooldridge or Kevin Dixon MOBILE: Mark 0407 860 247 or Kevin 0419 706 354 Phone: 07 5544 1204 Fax: 07 5544 1169 Email : [email protected] Web: www.racetree.com.au

Sharlee Park PO Box 226, Rathdowney Qld 4287 Enquiries: David Garing MOBILE: 0418 753 430 Phone: 07 5544 1583 Fax: 07 5544 1584 Email : [email protected]

Patinack Farm Beaudesert - Nerang Road, Benobble Qld 4275 MOBILE: Brad 0417 252 178; Troy 0428 632 966; Ben 0427 392 130; Adam 0408 053 234 or

Fergal 0416 381 786 Phone: 02 6547 4000 Fax: 02 6547 4099 Email : [email protected] Web: www.patinackfarm.com

Willowbend Stud PO Box 419, Beaudesert Qld 4285 Enquiries: David Lucas MOBILE: David 0438 114 134 or Ben 0438 614 134 Fax: 07 3036 6560 Email : [email protected] Web: www.willowbend.com.au

Woodwinds @ Benwerrin 985 Kerry Road, Beaudesert Qld 4285 ENQU IRIES: Shannon or Erica Bates MOBILE: Shannon 0432 591 564 or Erica 0417 720 352 Phone: 07 5544 9200 Fax: 07 5544 9211 Email : [email protected] Web: www.woodwindsfarm.com.au

3.2 QTIS Thoroughbred Studs Standing Stallions in the Study Region

An important part of the economic development of the racehorse breeding industry in the

Study Region is the QTIS (Queensland Thoroughbred Investment Scheme). This is an

internationally recognised incentive scheme that was introduced by Queensland Racing to

boost the Queensland racehorse breeding industry by offering race bonuses to Queensland

bred horses. These horses can increase their race earnings by winning substantial QTIS

bonuses at specified metropolitan, provincial and country races in Queensland. This scheme is

intended to increase interest in purchasing Queensland bred racehorses and encourage

breeding to Queensland Stallions. For more information see appendix 1.

As there are 75 QTIS stallions standing at stud in Queensland, with 37 (49%) in the study

area13 this makes the region a serious economic player in the industry. All of the above studs

listed in 3.1 stand QTIS stallions as well as Oaklands Stud (see appendix 2). These stallions are

marketed in a free glossy Year Book available from selected outlets14. Many of the progeny of

these stallions are marketed and sold through the Magic Millions Sales on the Gold Coast.

As demand for Queensland bred racehorses grows, horses numbers will increase and there

will be a corresponding growth in staff and economic inputs into the region, particularly for

veterinarians, farriers and feed and forage suppliers.

There is great opportunity to encourage more interstate operations such as Patinack Farm

and Eliza Park to the region as long as land use protections are in place. Prestigious horse

farms cost millions of dollars to develop and there needs to be certainty that land won’t be

compromised by incompatible extraction or other industries. Operations based in areas were

land tenure is uncertain will be attracted to a region where there is certainty.

http://www.racetree.com.au/


http://www.patinackfarm.com/

http://www.willowbend.com.au/

http://www.woodwindsfarm.com.au/


3.3 The Standardbred Industry and Harness Racing

The other horse racing code in Queensland administered by Queensland Racing, is Harness Racing using Standardbred horses. The sport has been in Australia since the 1880s. The major venues for TAB Harness Racing in Queensland are Albion Park, the Gold Coast and Redcliffe15. The Marburg Pacing Association is based at the Marburg Showgrounds and holds 20 non TAB meetings a year as well as many trials and is very important to the local harness community16. Marburg Pacing Association Marburg Showgrounds, Queen Street, Marburg QLD 4346 Postal Address: PO Box 22, Marburg QLD 4346 President: Graham Harriott Email: [email protected] Secretary: Greg Cumberland Email: [email protected] Most of the harness industry is located in the Ipswich, Lockyer and Somerset Council areas, though the Scenic Rim is home to one of the world’s most successful pacers the gelding “Blacks a Fake”. Most owners/trainers have daily exercise tracks on their private property, negating the need to travel to a racetrack each day. There is generally less prize money in harness racing than thoroughbred racing but it is also less expensive to be involved in this sport than thoroughbred racing.

3.3.1 The Standardbred Breeding Industry There are 41 Standardbred stallions standing at stud in Queensland, with 24 stallions (58%) within the study area17. These horses are bred exclusively for the harness racing industry with the lucky ones finding homes within the sport and pleasure riding sector when their racing career is over. One of the largest studs is Cold Mountain at Moore owned by Clive Palmer.

BEE JAYS STUD

Contact person/Studmaster: Email address:

Barry and Jean Hoare [email protected]

Phone: (07) 5426 6340, Mobile 040 957 6454 / 040 703 2177

Address: 184 Wanora Road, Fernvale, Qld 4306

BRAYCREST PARK

Contact person/Studmaster: Colin Knox

Email address: [email protected]

Phone: (07) 5464 1345

Address: 81 McGearys Road, Thagoona, Qld 4306




COLD MOUNTAIN STUD

Contact person/Studmaster: Derek Payne


Website: www.coldmountainstud.com.au

Phone: (07) 3832 2044

Address: GPO Box 1538, Brisbane, Qld 4001 Stud Location: Moore, Queensland

COOLANA EQUINE BREEDING CENTRE

Contact person/Studmaster: Lisa Scantlebury


Phone: 0417 190 778

Address: 521 Lowood-Minden Road, Coolana, Queensland 4311

DRAGON LODGE

Contact person/Studmaster: Greg Cumberland


Phone: A/H: (07) 5464 1283 or B/H: (07) 3280 1456

Address: 323 Reillys Road, Rosewood Qld 4340 - PO Box 150, Rosewood Qld 4340

FOGGYHOLLOW STUD

Contact person/Studmaster: Darren Ebert

Phone: 0410 688 176

Address: 15 Fulham Road, Toogoolawah, Qld 4313

MELTON STUD

Contact person/Studmaster: George Michael


Phone: (07) 5423 1613, Mobile: 0427 992 202 Fax: (07) 5423 1613

Address: MS 336, Toogoolawah Qld 4313

MONARCH FARM

Contact person/Studmaster: Margaret Donohoe


Website: www.monarchfarm.com.au

Phone: (07) 5467 1111 Mobile: 0428 627 432

Address: Kruger Road, Mutdapilly, Qld 4307, Postal : Box 15, Harrisville, Qld 4307

RICHLORE DOWNS

Contact person/Studmaster: Richard Hutchinson


Phone: (07) 5543 6070 Mobile: 0408 870 853

Address: Creamer Road, Tamborine, Qld 4270 Postal address: PO Box 120, Tamborine, Qld 4270

WRIGHT LODGE

Contact person/Studmaster: Gavin Wright

Phone: (07) 5465 8453

Address: 2 Markai Road, Lockyer Waters, Qld 4311


http://www.coldmountainstud.com.au/





http://www.monarchfarm.com.au/



3.4 Pony Club Association of Queensland (PCAQ)

Pony Club is a worldwide organisation and the largest equestrian organisation in Australia18

with associations in each state. It is recognised by the Australian Sports Commission as being

the body responsible for equestrian sport for children and young adults up to the age of 25

years. Pony Clubs conduct many activities including riding instruction, horse care and

competitions at zone, state, territory and national level.

There are 17 Pony Clubs in the Ipswich and West Moreton region19 with a total of

approximately 650 members (riding and non riding). The region is covered by 3 Pony Club

Zones. Zone 3 has a total of 12 Pony Clubs and includes part of the Scenic Rim, all of Lockyer

and Ipswich and part of Somerset Council. Zone 2 has a total of 13 Pony Clubs which includes

4 in the Scenic Rim and also takes in the adjoining Gold Coast and Jimboomba area. Zone 26

has a total of 13 Pony Clubs which includes 1 in Somerset, it also takes in adjoining Woodford,

Caboolture and Dayboro areas.

Zone 03 - Total of 12 Pony Clubs Secretary: Deborah French Ph: 0416 110 366 Postal Address: 74 Kent Road, Rifle Range, 4311. Email: [email protected]

Pony Club Contact Postal Address Phone Number

Email Address Pony Club Location

Members

Brisbane Valley

Ingrid Anne Harris

P.O.Box 174, Toogoolawah, 4313

0407 231322

n/a

City of Ipswich

Gaynor Hayhoe

P.O. Box 174, Booval, 4304

0413 540 748 [email protected]

Sth Deebling Ck Rd, Yamanto

n/a

Fassifern Justine Stanton

P.O.Box 133, Boonah, 4310


Boonah Showgrounds

80

Gatton Penny Perham

P.O.Box 109 Amberley, 4306

[email protected]

Grantham Rec & Sports Grds, Christopher St

n/a

Harrisville Stephen Pyle

36 Ellis Jackson Rd, Wilsons Plains, Harrisville, 4307


Showgrounds, Warrill View

n/a

Hattonvale Joan Parker 4 Lens Road, Summerholm, 4341


Woolshed Creek & Long Gully Rds Hattonvale

35

Karalee Kathy Foy P.O. Box 2484 North Ipswich, 4305


Phillip Cres Barellan Point

39

Laidley Wendy Byrnes

185 Drayton St, Laidley, 4341


Laidley Showgrounds

35

Lowood Fernvale

Linda Nelson-McLennan

261 Iron Bark Road, Iron Bark, 4306 07 5464 5982

[email protected]

Col Powell Park 57

Rosewood Stephanie Weale

1 Zahnows Rd, Rosevale, 4340


Rosewood Showgrounds

86

Withcott Terri Dossetto

PO Box 66, Helidon 0407 144 199 [email protected] Plant St, Helidon 28

Wivenhoe Lael Bruckner

P.O.Box 230, Lowood, 4311


Lowood Showgrounds

24
















Zone 02 - Total of 13 Pony Clubs

Secretary: Natalie Fazel Ph:07 5535 1321

Postal Address: P.O. Box 499, Burleigh Heads 4220. Email Address: [email protected]

Pony Club Contact Postal Address Phone Number

Email address Pony Club Location

Members

Beaudesert Kay Paulsen

P.O.Box 27, Beaudesert, 4285

07 5543 2158

[email protected] Beaudesert Showgrounds

90

Canungra Katrina Morrow

10 Wagon Wheel Rd, Boyland, 4275

0400 436 867

[email protected]

Lamington National Park Road

20

Kooralbyn Cheryl Harris

85-87 Stephen's Pl, Kooralbyn, 4285

0408 964 018

[email protected]

Polo Field No 2 Kooralbyn Valley

5

Tamborine Christina Smith

P.O.Box 118, Tamborine, 4270


Middle Park Beaudesert -Beenleigh Rd Tamborine

50

Zone 26 Total of 13 Pony Clubs

Secretary: Mrs. Chris Hall Ph: 07 3289 9089

Postal Address: 195 Pringles Road, Samsonvale, 4520. Email Address: [email protected]

Pony Club Contact Postal Address Phone

Number Email Address

Pony Club

Location Members

Kilcoy Dianne

Youles

248 Winya

Road, Kilcoy,

4515 07 5497 1178 [email protected]

Kilcoy

Showgrounds

50

Table 2: Total Number of Pony Clubs and Members for each Council Area

Region Clubs Members

Scenic Rim 6 Approx 245

Lockyer 4 Approx 130

Ipswich 3 Approx 140

Somerset 4 Approx 135

TOTAL 17 Approx 650









3.5 Equestrian Clubs

There are several equestrian groups operating in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region20.

Some of the groups hold Equestrian Australia (EA) recognised events. Equestrian Australia is

the National body recognised by the Australian Sports Commission, the Australia Olympic

Committee and the international body for equestrian sport the FEI21. Belonging to the EA and

competing in EA events is the pathway to the Olympic Games. Equestrian Queensland (EQ)

runs EA events in Queensland.

Lockyer Equestrian Group Inc. (LEG)

This group holds EA Official and Associate Dressage Competitions throughout the year.

They hold regular Members Days for people to enjoy the sport of dressage without the

pressure of official competition.

Events are held at the Laidley showgrounds and the Gatton Indoor Equestrian Centre with

meetings held in the Marburg Community Hall.

Phone: 0422 578 835

PO Box 49, Marburg Qld 4346

email: [email protected]

http://www.legs.org.au

Tamborine and District Riding Club

Formed in 2010 as an offshoot from the Tamborine Pony Club. It is a family club that caters

for Show Jumping, Dressage, Trail Rides, Natural Horsemanship, Western and Sporting.

Events and training days are held at Middle Park, Beenleigh-Beaudesert Road, Tamborine

4270. The grounds and facilities are shared with the Tamborine Pony Club

President: Gaby Doebeli

Mobile: 0438 289786

PO Box 135, Tamborine Qld 4270

email: [email protected]

www.tdrc.webs.com

Scenic Rim Equestrian Group (SREC)

This is a local community based group providing a training facility for equestrian enthusiasts

caters from professionals to hobby riders.

6642 Mt Lindsay Hwy, Gleneagle Qld 4285

Phone: (07) 5543 1896



http://www.legs.org.au/


http://www.tdrc.webs.com/



Kooralybn Equestrian Group

This group has access to a cross country course that was once of international standard. It is

still used for local events. There is lack of certainty whilst the resort remains for sale.

Club grounds, Kooralbyn Hotel Resort, Kooralbyn Qld 4285

Contact: Janine Dwyer

Phone: 0457 467737

Fax: (07) 3287 9233

[email protected]

The following organisations are also listed as clubs on the Equestrian Queensland website

http://www.qld.equestrian.org.au :

Beaudesert Country & Horse Festival Assoc. – ran for several years but now appears defunct

161 Brisbane St, Beaudesert Qld 4285, PO Box 242 Beaudesert Qld 4285


Belcam Stud Riding Group – no longer functioning

Belcam Stud, Armstrong Road, Biddaddaba Qld 4275

Phone: (07) 5543 0125

[email protected]

Clydesdale & Heavy Horse Field Days Association In

Gatton Showgrounds, Gatton Qld 4343

Po Box 498, Gatton Qld 4343

Phone: (07) 5465 4467

Fax: (07) 54654467

[email protected]

Cricket Road Rider's Club – this club is believed to no longer function

Swan Road, Regency Downs

Elysian Equestrian Group - this club is believed to no longer function

Elysian Fields, Wonglepong Rd, Wonglepong Qld 4275

PO Box 170, Canungra Qld 4275

Phone: (07) 5571 1934


Standardbred Association Queensland

President: Reg Armstrong

The SAQ Standardbred Hotline: (07) 4697 7682.

PO Box 348, ROSEWOOD, QLD 4340


http://www.saq.com.au


http://www.qld.equestrian.org.au/






http://www.saq.com.au/


3.6 Interschool

Many schools now run Equestrian as part of their sports program. Interschool is a school based competition for Equestrian Queensland members and is based on the official EA rules. Students compete against competitors from other schools in their age group. It provides students with a smooth transition into official Equestrian Australia competition. Many students are also members of the Pony Club Association of Qld (PCAQ) as well. The training and events are generally held at local pony club grounds, local showgrounds or on their own school grounds. There are currently 15 schools in the region taking part in Interschool22.

Table 3: Public and Private Schools in the region taking part in the Equestrian Australian Interschool program21

Beaudesert State High School Kim Kulper [email protected] Beaudesert

Ipswich Girls Grammar School Robyn Goldman [email protected] Ipswich

Ipswich Grammar School N Grieve [email protected] Ipswich

Mount Alford State School - [email protected] Mt Alford

Raceview Primary School Nadine Bird [email protected] Raceview

Rosewood State High School Justine Merritt [email protected] Rosewood

Springfield Anglican College Andy Holmes/ Karen Morris

[email protected] Springfield

St Augustine’s College Tina Eichorn [email protected] Springfield

St Brigid’s Trudy Dougall [email protected] Rosewood

St Mary’s College Helen Jorgensen [email protected] Ipswich

St Mary’s Laidley Debbie Emmerson [email protected] Laidley

The Kooralbyn International School

Leah McCarron [email protected] Kooralbyn

Toogoolawah State High School Troy Harris [email protected] Toogoolawah

Toogoolawah State School Barabara Cornford [email protected] Toogoolawah

West Moreton Anglican College Bianca Coleburn [email protected] Karrabin

3.7 Polocrosse in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

Polocrosse is a sport invented in Australia in 1938 and exported to the world. The South East

Zone in Queensland includes the following Clubs: Clifton, Cunningham, Gold Coast,

Goondiwindi, Killarney, Lockyer Valley, Stanley Rivers, Tansey, Toowoomba and Warwick,

with two of these being in the study area23. Whilst neither of these clubs have their own

grounds they have built relationships with other venues for the benefit of both parties.

Warwick, bordering the study area to the south has large purpose built grounds at Morgan

Park where large tournaments are held including State and National Championships and the

World Cup in 2007.

Lockyer Valley Polocrosse Club Inc.

Laidley Showgrounds Club Secretary: Scott Colwell Phone: 0418 709 075 Email: [email protected]

Approx. 50 members

Stanley Rivers Polocrosse Club

Kilcoy Racecourse Club President: Clay Colless Phone: 0437 195 700 Secretary email: [email protected]

Approx. 20 members




3.8 Polo

There are five Polo Clubs in The Queensland Polo Association, with one club in the study

area24. The club has 40 members but does not have its own facilities, instead competing on a

rotational basis on eight privately owned grounds all within the Scenic Rim area. Competitions

are held from April to October, with 12 games held every weekend weather permitting.

South East Queensland Polo Club

Contact: Angelo Russo

Mobile: 0418 721 794


Secretary: Peita Bliim

Mobile: 0459 991 414

GROUND/FIELD LOCATIONS:

Alsace Fields (South East Qld Polo Club Field)

Located on Veresdale Scrub School Road, Veresdale. East of the Mt Lindsay Highway on the

way to Beaudesert.

Ashling Polo Field

Located on Bromelton House Road Beaudesert near the Willowcroft field.

Bromelton House Field

Located on Bromelton House Road in Beaudesert.

Biddaddaba Creek Polo Club Field

3234 Beaudesert-Nerang Road, Biddaddaba.

Elysian Fields (South East Qld Polo Club Field)

Located on Beaudesert-Nerang Road, Wonglepong.

Kooralbyn No. 1 Field

No 1 Field is located in Kooralbyn Valley through Beaudesert. Follow the road into the resort,

turn left at Kooralbyn Resort, past the Golf shop, then first left over the creek, and first left

again past the industrial area and follow the signs to the field.

Salisbury Fields

Located near Kooralbyn Valley. Turn into Kooralbyn road, go under the railway bridge and

turn right 100 meters along into the ‘Avonmore’ driveway.

Willowcroft Polo Field

Located on Boonah Beaudesert Road at Beaudesert.



3.9 Campdrafting

The Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) is divided into 9 zones with the study area coming under the South East Zone25. Of the 33 groups in the South East Zone, 9 (27%) are in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region26.

Campdrafting is a popular sport in regional areas where large numbers of cattle are commercially farmed and mustered, but it has also been growing in popularity in areas closer to Brisbane where cattle are kept on smaller hobby farms.

It is not an easy event to stage with cattle required as well as horses, involving loading ramps and cattle yards as well as the normal horse facilities.

Entry numbers in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region are high with competitor numbers averaging 230 entries in a Maiden Draft (horse hasn’t competed before), 282 entries in a Novice Draft (horse with limited competition exposure) to around 200 entries in an Open Draft (horse is a seasoned competitor)27. Campdrafting is a family sport with couples and their children competing. Junior classes attract on average 19 entries.

Table 4 : Campdrafts in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region26.

Council Area

Event Date for 2012

Location Contact Telephone

Scenic Rim Beaudesert 30 Mar Beaudesert Showgrounds

Scenic Rim Rathdowney 20 - 22 Apr Rathdowney Memorial Grounds

Liz Richards (07) 5544 1566

Scenic Rim Canungra 5 - 6 May Canungra Showgrounds

Shona Kraayuanger 0414 676 787

Scenic Rim Boonah Oct 5 - 6 Boonah Showgrounds

Margaret Harvey (07 )5463 5228

Lockyer Gatton 12 - 13 May Colleen Fitzgerald (07) 5462 1251

Ipswich Rosewood Jun 24 Rosewood Showgrounds

Pat Lenihan 0417 733 421

Somerset Esk 5-6-7 May Kylie Fisher 0402 107 735

Somerset Kilcoy 26 - 27 May Kilcoy Pat Bleakley (07) 5497 1507

Somerset Fernvale Jun 10 - 11 Fernvale Campdraft Grounds

Vicki Tompson (07) 5464 6812


3.10 Rodeo

The National Rodeo Association (NRA) holds 90 rodeos a year with over 600 contestants

taking part in cattle work, barrel racing as well as the crowd popular bull and horse riding28.

The sport attracts male, female and junior contestants.

Rodeos in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region are held at Rosewood, Walloon, Laidley,

Canungra, Rathdowney, Redbank Plains, Toogoolawah, Harrisville, Kilcoy and Boonah.

Head Office:

PO Box 1477

Caboolture QLD 4510

ABN: 36 058 447 993

Inquiries:

Phone: 07 5495 8668

Fax: 07 5495 7384


3.11 Western Groups

Western riding and halter showing using the Quarter Horse breed of horse has its origins in

America and is now very popular in Australia. It includes Western Pleasure, Reining,

Showmanship at Halter, Trail, Hunter in Hand, English events, Cutting and Team Penning.

There are 46 groups nationally that are affiliated with the Australian Quarter Horse

Association (AQHA)29, 20 of these groups are in Queensland with 5 in the study area. Some of

the competition events involve the use of cattle and these are more popular in regional areas

where cattle can be kept.

Beaudesert Cutting and Western Performance Club Inc

Catering for riders of all ages the grounds are the Josephville Club Grounds, Josephville Rd,

Josephville 4285.

President: Steve Booth

Phone: 5546 0159

Mobile 0429 610 033

Secretary: Georgina Klassen

Phone: 5546 0159

Mobile: 0439 808 384


PO Box 162, Beaudesert Qld 4285

www.bcwpc.blogspot.com



http://www.bcwpc.blogspot.com/


Laidley- Walloon Quarter Horse and Performance Association (LWQPA)

Club facilities are at Swan road, Regency Downs and are leased from the Lockyer Valley

Regional Council. The club caters for adults and youths.

Meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month at 7pm, at Fairways Tavern & Golf

Club, Hattonvale.

Secretary: Julie-Ann Curry

Phone: (07) 5465 8491


www.lwqhpassoc.com.au

Gatton Quarter Horse and Performance Association

Catering for beginner to advanced riders. Three large events are held annually as well as

clinics throughout the year. Western Performance shows are held for Quarter Horses,

Appaloosas, Paints, Pintos and other breeds.

The club uses the Gatton Indoor Equestrian Centre, Gatton Showgrounds, Gatton 4343.

Club meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 7pm at the Ipswich Jets.

President: Craig Halliday

Phone: 5467 2732


Secretary/Treasurer: Jan Moy

Phone:5465 4856


www.gqhpa.org.au

Queensland Working Cow Horse Club Inc (QWCHC)

The club cater for adults and juniors and its training days and competition events are held on

the Kilcoy, Woodford and Caboolture Showgrounds. Competitions include Campdrafting,

Challenges (dry work, 2 handed cutting, campdraft), Team Penning and Snaffle Bit Cutting.

Practice days are held that include cattle work, mechanical cow, dry work and Horsemanship.

Monthly meetings are held at Woodford Showgrounds (usually on the first Tuesday night of

the month).

President: Wally Breton

Phone: 0412 715 745


Secretary: Kim Rylatt

Phone: 0409 058 457


PO Box 245, Wamuran, QLD 4512

www.qwchc.org.au


http://www.lwqhpassoc.com.au/



http://www.gqhpa.org.au/



http://www.qwchc.org.au/


Southside Western Performance Club SWPC A newly formed club to promote western performance, catering for adults and children. The club hires grounds at Bellara Park, 97 Worendo Street, Veresdale Qld 4285. President: Danielle Armstrong

Mobile: 0419469339

Show secretary: Jo Brown

Mobile: 0431761318 Email: [email protected]

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Southside-Western-Performance-

Club/229435933786321?sk=info

Southern Queensland Reining Horse Association Inc. (Sqrha)

Competition events and clinics held at the Gatton Indoor Arena and Caboolture Indoor Arena.

Secretary: Tammy Stephen

Phone: 0459 465961


PO Box 70, Nanango, QLD 4615


Website: http://www.sqrha.org.au

3.12 Other Groups

Endurance

Fernvale Endurance Club

Fernvale Campdraft Grounds, Banks Creek Rd

Club Secretary: Caroline Fitzgerald


Fax to 07 54270662

22 Members

OZ Endurance Q Inc

Ride Secretary: Penny Toft

Phone: 0417 626 188

Office: 07 5464 4312

Address: C/o PO Box 56, Marburg Q 4346


www.toftendurance.com.au

Fassifern Endurance Club – no contact details available on the web.


http://www.facebook.com/pages/Southside-Western-Performance-Club/229435933786321?sk=info

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Southside-Western-Performance-Club/229435933786321?sk=info


http://www.sqrha.org.au/



http://www.toftendurance.com.au/


Light Horse

From the Scenic Rim Regional Council website

Beaudesert 14th Light HorseTroop

Beaudesert, QLD 4285

Phone: 0418 848 439

Boonah Light Horse Troup

PO Box 134, Boonah, QLD 4310

Phone(07) 5463 2782

Trail Riding

From the Scenic Rim Regional Council website

Beaudesert Shire Trail Horse Riders Club (BSTHRC)

116 McDonald Road, Jimboomba QLD 4280


Trail rides on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month

Club meeting 2nd Monday of each month

Beechmont and District Horse Riders Club Inc

8 Getty Lane Lower Beechmont QLD 4211

Club ride the first Sunday of every month.

Australian Stock Horse Society (ASHS) http://www.ashs.com.au/members/branches.asp

Beaudesert Branch

Secretary - Mr Steve Gooley

3 Soper Way, Luscombe QLD 4207

Phone:(07) 5546 4757

Mobile: 0424 025 653


www.beaudesertashs.com.au

West Moreton Branch

Secretary: Alison Morgan

55 Hughes Road, Plainland QLD 4341

Mobile: 0409 591 878


http://www.ashs.com.au/members/branches.asp


http://www.beaudesertashs.com.au/


Carriage Driving

Carriage Driving Queensland

President - Bev Edwards

Mt Berryman, Lockyer Valley

Phone: 07 4630 7274


Australian Carriage Driving Society Queensland Branch

Helen Baskerville.

Phone: 07 5483 5121


Vaulting

Fassifern Vaulting Inc.

511 Hoya Road, Teviotville.Qld

Contact: Darryn Fedrick ph (07) 5463 5267

Email: [email protected],

http://fassifernvaultingaustralia.jimdo.com/

Donkeys

www.donkeysocietyqld.org

Donkey Society of Queensland

President: Heike Mack-Behle

[email protected]

Area Representatives

Lockyer Valley: Ivan Summerhayes

Scenic Rim: Heike Mack-Behle

Breed Societies

There are also many other groups in the Ipswich and West Moreton region such as breed

societies and natural horsemanship devotees, that do not have a home ground. These groups

hold their competitions and championships at local agricultural shows or hire the various

venues available. These groups prefer all-weather indoor venues with good facilities so that

events can be arranged without the uncertainty of wet weather. The Gatton Indoor Arena has

attracted many groups to the region. Each group may use several venues during the year.

Good stables and human amenities are important if the venue is to attract competitors from

outside the region that will be staying at the grounds for at least one night.




http://fassifernvaultingaustralia.jimdo.com/

http://www.donkeysocietyqld.org/



3.13 Education

As well as the Interschool equestrian program as discussed earlier, there are two institutions

also offering equine study courses, The Kooralyn International School at Kooralbyn and the

University of Queensland Gatton Campus.

The Kooralbyn International School (TKIS)

http://www.tkis.qld.edu.au/TKIS_Equestrian_Mastery_Info.pdf

Ogilvie Place, Kooralbyn, QLD 4285

Phone: 07 5544 5500

Fax: 07 5544 6108

Course: Equestrian Mastery Program

University of Queensland Gatton (UQG)

http://www.uq.edu.au/study/plan.html?acad_plan=EQUINY2240

The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton Qld 4343

Study Enquiries -


phone: 07 54601 276

Courses: Associate degree – 2 years in Equine Studies

Bachelor Applied Science - Equine Management

Bachelor Applied Science - Equine Science Extended Major

3.14 Not for Profit

There are two not for profit organisations representing the horse industry to Government in

Queensland:

The Queensland Horse Council (QHC)

www.qldhorsecouncil.com

The QHC focuses on “investigating and representing issues for the general good of all sectors

of the Horse Industry”, with a focus on community education on issues such as Hendra Virus.

Secretary: Fiona Thompson Phone: 0434182721 Email: [email protected] Private Box 1110, The University of Queensland Gatton Campus, GATTON QLD 4343

http://www.tkis.qld.edu.au/TKIS_Equestrian_Mastery_Info.pdf

http://www.uq.edu.au/study/plan.html?acad_plan=EQUINY2240


http://www.qldhorsecouncil.com/



Queensland Horse Industry Alliance Inc (QHIA)

http://www.efaq.com.au/default.asp?Page=27573&Format=popup

The QHIA is an industry alliance representing breed societies and the performance horse

sector. The organisations under this banner include: Equestrian Queensland, Pony Club

Association of Queensland (PCAQ), Polocrosse Association of Queensland, Queensland

Endurance Riders Association, South Queensland Management Council of The Australian

Stock Horse Society, Riding for the Disabled Association of Queensland, The Australian

Professional Rodeo Association, Arabian Horse Association of Queensland and the Australian

Campdrafting Association.

President: Mr Kent Wells Phone: 0414 742112

3.15 Horse Rescue

There are several organisations that rescue and re-home horses and donkeys in the Ipswich

and West Moreton Region in addition to the usual work carried out by Council Animal

Management Officers and Rangers and the RSPCA:

Standardbred Association Queensland

Secretary: Sarah Armstrong

The SAQ Standardbred Hotline: (07) 4697 7682.

PO Box 348, ROSEWOOD, QLD 4340


http://www.saq.com.au

Association for Trotters Exiting Racing Inc. AFTER

Secretary/Horse Placement Officer: Caroline Jeffs


Phone: 0458 250 123

Address: PO Box 174, Rosewood, Qld 4340

Tamborine Horse Retreat

Louise "tozeland" Francis : President / Founder

Ph : 0431278884

[email protected]

Destiny Boonah Eco Cottage + Donkey Farm, Rescue, Welfare & Re-homing:

Heike: Phone (07) 3333 2622

Address: 701 Boonah-Rathdowney Rd, Wallaces Creek, QLD 4310

www.destinyboonah.com

http://www.efaq.com.au/default.asp?Page=27573&Format=popup


http://www.saq.com.au/



http://www.destinyboonah.com/


Another Chance, Boonah,

Phone: 07 5463 8350

[email protected]

http://anotherchance10.tripod.com/id1.html

3.16 Businesses Servicing the Equine Industry in the Region

There are many types of businesses servicing the equine industry in the Ipswich and West

Moreton region and this is where the economic benefits of the horse industry really lie. The

high number of horse owners, horses and equine clubs operating in the region provides

economic support for a wide range of businesses. Recreational horses (competition and

pleasure) rarely generate income, but owners spend an incredible amount of money pursuing

their equine hobby. If the equine industry grows in the region, so will these businesses. It is

estimated that it costs on average $2800 a year to keep a recreational horse; this is

significantly more for horses that are competing or kept on full agistment. Retired horses on

large acreage, not requiring supplementary feed or veterinary attention may cost less than

$500 a year to keep.

Table 5: Approximate costs per annum of keeping one horse on own property in the study region10.

Expense Yearly Cost Minimum (approx) Yearly Cost Maximum(approx)

Feed 0 $1664

Hay/Chaff $180 $3380

Supplements 0 $1200

Farrier $100 $1200

Worming $80 $120

Vaccination $32 $100

Teeth care $80 $200

Veterinarian 0 (depends on the health status) $300

Saddlery/Rugs 0 (only limited by income) $1000

TOTAL $472 $9164

For competition and race horses there are also the following significant additional expenses:

stable bedding, coaching or training fees, towing vehicle or truck (registration, insurance,

maintenance and fuel), horse float registration and insurance, membership of chosen

organisation, competition entry fees and levies. Additionally there is the cost of purchasing

and maintaining a home on acreage plus any property improvements that are required. There

may also be a longer commute to paid employment resulting in higher fuel bills.

Studs

The region is home to many studs, breeding all types, sizes and colours of horses and ponies

from around the world. There are many imported horses in the region particularly

competition stallions, some costing upwards of $250,000. These stallions are run as a business

selling service fees to offset their purchase cost.


http://anotherchance10.tripod.com/id1.html


Feed

The major recurring expense (see Table 5 above) with horse ownership is the cost of feed.

Small subdivisions provide inadequate grazing and severe droughts and frosts can affect

larger properties, this ensures that horses will need supplementary feeding at least part of the

year. There are numerous lucerne farms throughout the region providing fodder to cattle and

horses throughout the state. Catering to this demand there are 31 Produce Stores and

several stockfeed mills manufacturing horse feed within the region.

Health

There are numerous ancillary care givers such as farriers, veterinarians, horse dentists, horse

chiropractors, horse massagers and alternative health practitioners. Some of these

practitioners travel in from surrounding areas. The new UQ Veterinary Medical Centre

Equine Hospital based at the University of Queensland at Gatton may assist in keeping some

economic benefit in the local community because in the past horses requiring major surgery

in the Lockyer, Somerset and Ipswich areas have been treated at Oakey Veterinary Hospital or

Anstead Veterinary Hospital. The Beaudesert area of Scenic Rim is well catered for with

equine veterinarians due to the high number of thoroughbred and performance horse studs

in the region.

Saddlery

The region only supports 4 traditional saddleries (3 in Ipswich and 1 in Gatton) although there

are many home businesses specialising in horse rug manufacture, repairs and cleaning; saddle

making and other leather work and custom made clothing and accessories. Many people in

the region now shop on line for saddlery items.

Agistment and Training

There are several large agistment centres, spelling farms and pre-training (racehorse)

establishments in the region. There are 26 accredited coaches with the National Coaching

Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) based in the region as well as coaches from other equine

disciplines and unaccredited coaches. There are numerous horse breakers and horse trainers

throughout the region.

Property Improvement

Horse properties also require property improvements such as sheds, stables, fencing

(traditional and electric), work arenas, crushes, wash bays, dams and water tanks. There are

many suppliers within the region and surrounding areas to service this industry. To install the

above equine facilities on a new property will cost around $100,000.

Tourism

The Ipswich and West Moreton region is very picturesque, but tourism in the region is still in

its infancy. There a several Trail Riding and Farm Stay operations in the region, but if

insurance and liability requirements can be managed, there is the potential for much more

equine based tourism.


Equine Press

There are several free or nominal charge equine publications distributed to produce stores

and saddleries throughout the region. These are a source of horse management information

and advertisements for local businesses.

Biotechnology

One unique business that deserves a mention by name is Plasvacc. Established in 1996 and

based at Kalbar in the Scenic Rim, Plasvacc manufactures and distributes blood plasma

products used to supplement the immune response system in animals. This business is a good

example of innovation and biotechnology, the Ipswich and West Morteton region has the

facilities and natural resources to encourage the establishment of more biotechnology and

novel equine industries.

Plasvacc Pty Ltd

http://www.plasvacc.com

Address:"Rigby",6066 Cunningham Highway,Kalbar Queensland 4309

Phone: 1-800 PLASMA (1800 752762) or 07 5463 7600


Horse Sales

Laidley Horse & Saddlery Auctions

Held monthly at the public sale yards. Horses purchased for private use and for slaughter.

Address: Rosewood/Grandchester Road, Laidley, QLD 4341 Tel: (07) 4636 2037 or 0400 361 174 Fax: (07) 4636 1174

Abattoirs

Unwanted horses must be disposed of in some way and abattoirs cater to that need. The

main abattoir for horses is based at Caboolture, where Belgium owned Meramist Pty Ltd

processes horse meat for human consumption for export. It is illegal for humans to consume

horse meat in Australia.

Rathdowney Knackery on the Mt Lindsay Hwy at Rathdowney processes horses for the Pet

Food trade.

Contact details: 79 Millar Rd, Bald Hills Qld 4036

Phone: 07 3261 2884

http://www.plasvacc.com/


3.17 Horse by Use in the Non-Racing Sector in the Study Area

The information above documents equestrian groups operating in the study area. However,

to fully comprehend the planning needs and requirements of the horse industry in this region,

it is important to have an understanding of the way that the horses are used.

A survey was conducted of the non racing sector11. Three different samples were taken at

three events over a 2 year period. This yielded a total of 531 respondents, 97 of which resided

in the study area. See appendix 3 for more details. Respondents were asked to categorise

horses into six demographics depending on their current use. Broodmares (females intended

for, or currently breeding), under 2 years (not old enough to be ridden yet), Competition

horses (organised sport – not racing), Pleasure horses that are ridden on trails or at home,

Spelling horses temporarily not working (injured) and retired horses that are no longer ridden.

This study showed that a total of 61% of horses in the non-racing sector are not worked in

some way (ridden or driven in harness). In other words, only a third of all horses seem to be in

active work of some kind. This is important because the care of these horses is still

contributing to the economy of the region, but is often unrecognised in surveys which focus

on competitive horse numbers. With the average number of horses owned being 711 this

means for every 2 horses at a competition there are at least 4 more at home.

Table 6: Non-Racing Horses by Use by Council Area in the Ipswich and West Moreton region11

Council Broodmares Under 2 yrs Competition Pleasure Spelling Retired Total

Scenic Rim 93 67 84 33 48 46 371

Lockyer 15 10 27 15 3 2 72

Ipswich 28 20 38 28 5 18 137

Somerset 30 28 44 7 5 8 122

Total 166 125 193 83 61 74 702

Figure 3: Percentage of horses in the non-racing sector in each usage category in the study area11.

24%

18%

27%

12%

9%

10%

Horse by Use in the Non-Racing Sector in the Study Area

broodmares

under 2

comp

pleasure

spelling

retired


4.0 Gaps in the infrastructure available to the equine industry

4.1 The Racing Industry

The Ipswich and West Moreton region is also home to five thoroughbred racetracks. The

ability to upgrade these tracks is dependent on Queensland Racing. Not only are funds

required for the upgrades, but there must be a guarantee of annual allocated races to keep

the venue viable. The racing industry is regulated and largely funded by Racing Queensland.

Race tracks in the region do require some upgrading. Stables, toilets and catering facilities are

the most common areas requiring attention. Funding for race track facilities is largely

determined by how many races they are allocated by Racing Queensland each year. How

many horses are entered to race and how many spectators come also plays a part in

determining the status of a race track.

4.2 The Performance and Recreation Industry

A telephone survey of 20 horse owners/club officials within the study area was asked the

following question: “If there was one thing that could be done to improve the horse industry

in your area, what would it be?”

The answers given were all related to infrastructure needs:

More covered arenas – for wet weather and ‘sun smart’ purposes

More stabling on showgrounds

Yards on showgrounds

Improved arena surfaces

More modern toilet, shower and camping facilities

Lockable storage sheds on grounds to store equipment

More/improved horse wash facilities

More shade

Better upkeep of facilities – roads, fences

More horse trails in safer locations – not along side roads

Better signage on horse trails – Wyaralong

More secure tenure of land

More reasonable lease/hire costs

Designated Evacuation Centres in the event of fire or flood

The management of the infrastructure was also commented on. Multi-user venues can pose

problems when incompatible users are booked on the same day. Even two different horse

groups may be incompatible – for example beginner children at Pony Club and fast paced

equestrian sports. Stallions are prohibited at Pony Club, but multi-use of venues may see

stallions in close proximity to children. Occasionally, part of the grounds required for horse


truck and float parking are booked to another group and there is only a competition area with

nowhere to park, unload horses or tie up horses.

The current predominant venue for horse events in each town is the town Showground.

These venues host regular Pony Club days as well as annual campdrafts and rodeos. Breed

organisations attend the annual agricultural shows in each town and may also hire the venues

for special competitions throughout the year and annual Championships. Sports such as

polocrosse, dressage, showjumping and eventing may have a home ground at a showground,

where they host events for competitors from a wider area. Competitors also leave their

home grounds to compete throughout the region.

There appears to be a dislocation where showgrounds are not council owned because council

are unable to invest in improvements to the infrastructure. The showgrounds are often the

only large parcel of land in the local vicinity suitable for equestrian events, negating the ability

of council to develop their own equestrian precinct.

Even council owned land is not without problems. Clubs apply for grants (usually from the

Gambling Community Benefit Fund30) for specific improvements on land that they use. If the

club loses those grounds, the owner – whether private or council – gains those assets.

Developing a Large Central Equestrian Park for the Region

The data collected to date suggests that a large Central Equestrian Park for the region may be

under-utilised. The current scattered approach encourages active clusters of equestrian

activity around each hub, bringing the associated economic benefits to each town.

People travel to venues such as the modern facilities at Morgan Park (Warwick) and the new

State Equestrian Indoor Centre at Caboolture for major events, but these facilities are of little

use in satisfying the daily requirements of people living in the Ipswich and West Moreton

region. Such venues are costly to develop and maintain requiring a larger hire cost which may

be out of reach for many groups.

Town Planning

Each town within the region needs a local area where horses can be exercised on a daily basis,

before or after school or work. Often this is on an individual’s own property, but newer

acreage subdivisions are too small. The SEQ Plan and Regional Councils need to identify new

acreage developments where zoning allows horses to be kept. A central park area in these

new estates suitable for horse riding as well as other uses would be ideal. Pony Clubs are

often utilised during the week to exercise horses.

Indoor Arenas

The Region could benefit from more covered arenas. The arenas do not need to be fully

enclosed. The roof serves a dual purpose of allowing events to continue in wet weather and

provide a ‘sun smart’ environment (particularly for children). The planned new Rosewood

Citywide Equestrian Centre and Showground would be an obvious choice for a covered arena.

Beaudesert, Boonah, Fernvale and Kilcoy would also benefit from a covered arena.


Trail Riding

The Region does have some horse riding trails, notably the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail31 and the

Mount Joyce Recreation Park at Wyaralong Dam32. However, the region could do with more

trails that didn’t involve road reserves, particularly ones that involve short loops, rather than

one way trails. There is some speculation that the new State Government will allow some

horse riding in National Parks but this is still unconfirmed.

5. Barriers to growing investment in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region

Equine Industry

The Australian Equine Industry in general is in a slow decline predominantly due to the

pressures of rising costs. Some sectors of the industry are strong and growing in popularity

such as campdrafting, but these are often in rural areas away from the pressures of city living

costs. Central Queensland has experienced a growth in their equine industry due to mine

workers with more disposable income buying small acreages and a pony for their children.

5.1 The Thoroughbred industry in decline

The thoroughbred industry is an important contributor to the economy of this region by

providing jobs as well as the purchasing of inputs such as manufactured feed, lucerne hay,

veterinary services and farrier services. However, the thoroughbred industry in Australia has

been in decline for some years. In 1998 there were 68,199 thoroughbreds on studs including

all stallions, mares and foals (not including yearlings and racehorses). By 2009 that number

had declined by almost 38% to 41,810.

There may be many contributing factors including rising costs, land use pressure, falling horse

sale prices, the global financial crisis (affecting investors) and the erosion of country racing in

Queensland.

The equine influenza epidemic right at the start of the 2007 breeding season brought the

industry to a standstill and has affected the numbers of foals on the ground and the overall

numbers of stud thoroughbreds as seen in the table below.

Table 7: Declining Numbers in Thoroughbreds1.

Total Numbers for Thoroughbreds at Stud in Queensland

2006 2007 2008 2009

Stallions 190 195 203 201

Mares 5067 4157 5013 4127

Foals 4174 3428 2634 3121

Total 9431 7780 7850 7449


Even though the numbers of thoroughbreds in Queensland has dropped, the number of studs

in the region has increased. It may be possible to attract more breeding investors to the

region with promotion of the area. The continuity of good grazing land and good racetrack

facilities will ensure the region becomes the ‘Region of Choice’ for thoroughbred breeders

nationally and internationally.

5.2 Urbanisation

The creeping subdivision of acreage land around the periphery of Brisbane and surrounding

regional towns is pushing horse owners further away from employment sources.

5.3 Employment

The high cost of being involved in equestrian sports means that the majority of people require

full time employment. Where people have long commutes back to Brisbane for work, there is

little time left in the day to train their horses. Professional Competitors often work in the

equine industry, coaching and horse training, to allow them the required time to train their

own horses to a high standard and to be able to travel to competitions throughout Australia.

As the employment opportunities in the Region grow, more people will be able to work closer

to home, if the corresponding acreage hasn’t been subdivided for residential housing. This

will depend on areas suitable for larger blocks being identified in the SEQ Regional Plan.

5.4 Disease

There are periodic disease outbreaks within the equine industry. Education and vaccination is

important. Strangles is one disease that should be vaccinated against yearly.

Hendra Virus

Hendra virus is an Australian zoonotic disease, which means it can transfer from animals to

people. Since its discovery in 1994, Hendra virus infections have occurred sporadically across

Queensland and New South Wales, including the Ipswich and West Moreton region. Hendra

virus can cause disease in horses but only rarely in humans. It can be transmitted from flying

fox to horse, horse to horse33, 34, and horse to human. The mortality rate in affected horses is

approximately 75% and in humans more than 50%. Although Hendra virus infection is

periodically present in flying fox populations across Australia, the likelihood of horses

becoming infected is very low. Hendra virus is not very contagious and is easily susceptible to

basic hygiene practices. There are a number of measures horse owners can take to reduce

the risk of horses becoming infected; these can be viewed at

http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/4790_2900.htm . The Hendra vaccine for horses will be

commercially available in 2013.

Exotic Disease

There are 28 equine diseases exotic to Australia, two of which have entered Australia, but

were subsequently eradicated at great cost35.

Contagious Equine Metritis was introduced to Australia in 1977 and eradicated.

http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/4790_2900.htm


Equine Influenza was introduced in 2007 and was subsequently eradicated. Disease such as

Equine Influenza is one of the biggest threats facing the equine industry.

Equine Influenza

Introduced to Australia in August 2007 just before the start of the stud season this disease has

had a devastating effect on the horse industry in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region from

which the industry has never fully recovered. It took nearly a year to eradicate at great

expense to the Government but also with great cost to the equine industry (both financial and

emotional) and with lasting negative effects even four years on36.

At the height of the disease over 2000 properties were affected in Queensland37 over an area

of 2766 square kilometres38 which encompassed the entire Ipswich and West Moreton region

and surrounds. The burden of the economic loss was felt by studs all over the region but also

fell on all of the equine support and service industries who could no longer trade.

Figure 4. below shows the affected regions. The red area was where the disease was present

and there was a complete ban on all horse movements for over six months. The yellow zone

was a buffer and had restrictions in place and the green zone was business as usual with no

restrictions, though those people had to keep their horses within the green zone.

Figure: 4 Map showing Equine Influenza Zones - Weekly Situation Report Equine Influenza Response 2 to 8

December 2007. Source: Queensland Government Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries 2007.


5.5 Financial

The Global Financial Crisis

The Global Financial Crisis has definitely affected the horse industry at the grass roots level.

Many wealthy investment owners haven’t had the funds to pay for a professional to compete

and train their horses in the sport and pleasure industry. Many racehorse owners have been

downsizing the amount of horses they own and subsequently have in training. In some

instances this has halved a trainer’s income.

Socio Economic Factors

The Ipswich and West Moreton Region has an average lower weekly income than the rest of

Queensland, with the median weekly income being less than $600 a week39. Almost sixty per

cent of the population had a gross income of less than $600 a week. The area relies on low

skilled jobs in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, both of which are very susceptible to

economic downturns. The region is still recovering from the January 2010 floods and many

horse owners have had to replace their entire infrastructure.

5.6 Coal Seam Gas (CSG) and Mining

Of great concern to the equine industry is the coal seam gas exploration and extraction in the

Scenic Rim. There are concerns regarding CSG impacting on the purity of underground water.

This area is a major nursery for the Queensland thoroughbred industry with 36% of

Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association (TBQA) members standing 45% of the QTIS

stallions. The Thoroughbred industry provides a significant economic benefit to the

Beaudesert region. Breeding operations and CSG are not compatible co-existing land uses due

to the innate flight mechanism in horses, making them flighty when startled.

5.7 Infrastructure

There is a lack of low cost or free public facilities in the region. All venues seem to be

experiencing rising cost and passing these on to the end user. Many facilities need upgrading,

but this will further add to the cost burden of hiring them.

5.8 Fragmentation

Government

There appears to be a lack of political cohesion between levels of Government regarding

funding. Local Councils are in competition with each other for available funds, rather than

taking an overarching view of the region as a whole.

Horse Industry Peak Body

There is a definite fragmentation of the Horse Industry groups with no single Peak Body

representing the Horse Industry to all levels of Government. This makes industry consultation

between the Government and the Horse Industry difficult because Government has to deal

with a multitude of stakeholders often with different objectives.


Clubs

There is also a definite fragmentation between equine groups and associations. The continual

formation of small breakaway groups is unsustainable. With rising venue hire costs, small

groups should be looking to amalgamate together to achieve economic rationalisation and

thus ensuring the survival of the group. Having fewer larger groups would also ease the

burden of finding volunteers as each club needs a volunteer Management Committee

6. Opportunities to Growing Investment in the Region’s Equine Industry

There is a huge potential to grow the Equine Industry in the Ipswich and West Moreton

region. As the city of Brisbane expands and land becomes more expensive, there is pressure

on acreage to be subdivided into residential blocks. Often a vacant residential block in

Brisbane or on the Gold Coast is the same price as a vacant acreage block within the study

region. For this reason many people are opting for a ‘tree change’ and moving further west.

If suitable acreage for horses is available, then the support equine businesses will follow,

bringing economic benefits to the region. If the area has suitable and affordable equestrian

infrastructure for hire, then the equestrian groups will attract more members and horse

numbers will correspondingly increase. This increases the revenue spent on care and

supports the equine service businesses.

6.1 Racing

The thoroughbred racing industry in the Region particularly in the Scenic Rim is very strong.

As discussed previously, there is a large number of Thoroughbred Studs and Thoroughbred

stallions in the Beaudesert area.

Trainers travel from all over south east Queensland to race at Ipswich due to the higher prize

money from holding TAB meetings.

Redevelopment of Beaudesert Racetrack

The Beaudesert Racetrack is very important to the Region’s economy. There was significant

investment in property and infrastructure in the surrounding areas anticipating upgrades of

the facilities and the track. Many Trainers are based around the track at Beaudesert.

Table 8: Licensed Racehorse Trainers in the Ipswich and West Moreton Region40

Council Area Licensed Race Horse Trainers

Scenic Rim 33

Ipswich 20

Lockyer 6

Somerset 5

Region Total 64


Country Racing The new Queensland State Government has committed to support country racing with a new

“Club Cooperation Scheme”, and have promised to allocate $1 million per year to fund 20

additional country race meetings over the next four years41. There are also plans to reinstate

three race meetings each at Esk and Kilcoy. It is anticipated that this will provide economic

benefit to those towns.

Gatton track is attracting Toowoomba trainers who are unhappy with the synthetic surface in

Toowoomba. The track however is small and travelling up and down the Toowoomba range

everyday is not for everyone.

6.2 Regional Town Planning

The Regional Town Plans and the South East Queensland Regional Plan need to carefully

address where equine properties are going to be maintained and encouraged within the

region. Supporting infrastructure needs to be addressed in the town plans. These areas need

to be protected from subdivision and coal seam gas exploration. Beaudesert is located

adjacent to two large horse areas – the Gold Coast and South Logan (Jimboomba, Park Ridge

and Greenbank) which are all under pressure from residential housing developments.

6.3 Infrastructure

There is an opportunity to upgrade existing equine infrastructure to attract more equestrian

clubs and groups to the area. Most clubs and groups are seeking indoor facilities these days

to ensure no economic loss through wet weather cancellations of an event. The upgrade of

the Rosewood Showgrounds and the development of a new equine precinct in Gatton will add

value to the region42.

6.4 Regional Airport

A regional airport such as that proposed for Lake Clarendon43 could bring economic benefits

to the horse industry in the region if it catered for fly in, fly out mine workers. Cashed up

mine workers looking to live close to the airport would be able to purchase acreage land and

have horses for themselves and their families.

6.5 Agriculture

The Scenic Rim, Lockyer and Somerset regions are prime lucerne growing areas, providing the

horse owners in the region with a local, ready source of forage without high freight costs.

More lucerne farming in the region could be promoted to ensure a reliable source of fodder.


6.6 Tourism

The Ipswich and West Moreton Region has spectacular natural beauty, world class national

parks and plenty of open space, yet it is very under developed in the tourism industry. The

region is ideal for horse riding holidays. The Wyaralong trail ride facility32 currently being

developed will be world class when finished. The Boonah to Ipswich Trail44 is an ideal

opportunity to promote the region.

The re-opening of some trails that were lost when State Forests were converted to National

Parks would also boost tourism, particularly in the Tamborine area.

6.7 Biotechnology

With the Veterinary Faculty relocating to the University of Queensland Gatton Campus and

the establishment of an Equine Hospital, there is an opportunity to attract equine researchers

and equine biotechnology businesses to the region.

6.8 Home Based Businesses

There is a shift in the retail industry with many purchases, particularly equine saddlery and

health supplies being purchased on line. There are several large internet businesses in South

East Queensland that service the equine industry and there is growth potential for on-line

businesses to establish themselves in the Ipswich and West Moreton region, subject to local

council regulations.

6.9 Corporate Governance

There are plenty of opportunities for Equestrian Groups and Pony Clubs in the Region to improve their Corporate Governance, Strategic Planning and Financial Management. Sports House Australia45 provides assistance to Clubs needing help in this area. They also provide help with managing and retaining volunteers. Ipswich City Council has a “Building Better Clubs” program46 to help sport and recreation clubs in Ipswich be more sustainable. The program focuses on education and training, grants and awards, promotion, information and communication.

7. Recommendations

7.1 A Regional Equine Strategy

A Regional Equine Strategy should include information on current equine activities within the

Ipswich and West Moreton regional development area and the economic and social benefits

that the equine industry brings to the region. Equine areas in adjoining councils should also

be considered as there is substantial infrastructure and equine numbers and events in the

Warwick, Toowoomba, Gold Coast and Jimboomba/Park Ridge areas.


More demographic information needs to be collected to ascertain the similarities and

differences between the equine communities throughout the region, which in turn will make

it easier to address their needs and identify areas for socio-economic development. There are

plenty contact details in this document as a starting point for information gathering.

Equine businesses also belong to other industries: retail (saddleries and produce stores),

agriculture (lucerne and grain farmers), service (farriers, vets and alternative health

therapists), education (trainers, coaches and university courses) and many cottage industries

(rug repairers etc). A comprehensive data base of these equine support businesses should be

collected and published on council websites.

As the equine industry is diverse and overlaps with other industries, it is very easy for policy

makers to become overwhelmed by the many stakeholders with differing needs. For this

reason it is suggested that a Regional Equine Strategy adopts a simple four point plan:

1. Maintain

2. Protect

3. Support

4. Grow

Firstly, maintain the current industry, secondly provide protection for the industry, thirdly

support the industry and lastly grow the industry.

7.1.1 Maintain

The equine industry is fairly resilient, but it is impacted by current policy making. It is

important to ensure the current industry is maintained. A regional Equine Strategy would

need to address current threats to the industry such as encroaching urbanisation. The Equine

Strategy would need to overlay town planning in the region to ensure the retention and

creation of appropriate sized subdivisions for horse keeping. Minimum land sizes of one to

three hectares are suitable for horse keeping and would be ideal as buffer zones between

urban and agricultural land. Whilst larger blocks of 16 hectares are desirable, smaller lot sizes

make the proposition more affordable and require less maintenance for “city farmers”. The

size and locations of these blocks would have to be incorporated into the SEQ Regional Plan

and be appropriately zoned for keeping horses by regional councils.

Smaller Clubs and Organisations should consider merging to rationalise the costs of ground

hire and administration. This would also place fewer burdens on volunteers and make it

easier to attract funding grants for new equipment. Additionally councils and show societies

should endeavour to pro-actively hire their grounds sharing the cost burden over more

groups. All facilities should be multi-use where possible and appropriate.


7.1.2 Protect

The equine industry faces many challenges: political, environmental, social and financial, just

like any other sector of society. Policy makers need to implement protective measures for the

equine industry such as restricting CSG or other mining activities that degrade the land or

water supply where horses are kept.

The Strategy would also need to address threats from disease, such as appropriate bat

management in equine areas, education programs for tetanus and strangles vaccinations and

Hendra virus awareness. Equine quarantine areas for exotic disease outbreaks such as Equine

Influenza and Equine Evacuation Centres in the event of flood or fire need to be established

throughout the region and vigorously promoted to horse owners. Equine groups need to be

aware of flood mapping for the region as flood plains are often used for grazing horses. Early

warning systems for fire and flood should be put in place.

7.1.3 Support

Existing gaps in infrastructure need to be identified and a short and long term plan to improve

and develop facilities including funding models needs to be implemented to ensure stability

and growth of the industry within the region. If the building of new infrastructure is

approached at a regional level, then expensive duplication of under used facilities can be

avoided. The design of new facilities should involve input from the equine community and

also be benchmarked against facilities such as Morgan Park in Warwick47.

A new cooperative partnership between the privately owned showgrounds and local councils

should be developed as often the showgrounds are the only large area of land in town that

can hold horse events. These grounds often need improving and need the funds to do so.

Low cost initiatives include using Council websites to promote a regional equine calendar and

to list free of charge all equine related businesses such as farriers, vets, trainers, coaches,

produce stores and studs. Lockyer Valley Regional Council44 has made a start on a local

calendar and business listings page that includes equine. The other councils do not have an

easy to find equine page, for events or businesses49,50,51. The Gold Coast Polo Club would like

more spectators at their games and councils could easily assist with promoting these events.

7.1.4 Grow

There are many ways to grow the industry both internally (to current equine enthusiasts and

suitable business people) and externally to local, interstate and international visitors.

Affordable land, good infrastructure and excellent competitions in tandem with new job

opportunities within the region will encourage more horse owners to move to the area.

The region is already known for tourism and it would be easy to attract visitors to key equine

events whilst visiting the region. For example a Thoroughbred Stud and Winery tour through

the Scenic Rim may encourage city people to buy a share in a racehorse.


7.2 Development of a Regional Equine Strategy

Regional Development Australia, Ipswich and West Moreton (RDAIWM) should prepare a

Regional Equine Strategy that is developed by a competent consultancy firm that has

submitted an appropriate tender.

The following stakeholders need to be engaged in the development of the strategy:

Scenic Rim Regional Council

Lockyer Regional Council

Ipswich Council

Somerset Regional Council

Relevant State Government stakeholders

Queensland Racing

Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association

The Queensland Horse Alliance Inc – representing Equestrian Australia, Pony Club

Association Qld, Polocrosse, Stock Horse

The Queensland Horse Council

The privately owned Showgrounds

These stakeholders need to commit to sending policy makers to meetings so that real

progress can be made and decisions about the future can be reached in meetings.

Additionally focus groups of clubs, special interest groups from industry and individual horse

owners within each area would need to be formed to provide feedback and road test new

ideas. The Equine Industry has a fair idea of its requirements but policy makers need to know

who to engage with. There are many contacts for equestrian clubs and equine facilities listed

in this document as a starting point.

The Regional Equine Strategy needs to identify achievable outcomes within a specified

timeframe and identify how the success (or otherwise) will be measured. Specific

Stakeholders need to be accountable for aspects of the Strategy and responsible for ensuring

outcomes.

8. Conclusion

The Ipswich and West Moreton Regional Development area is an important region for the

equine industry in south east Queensland. The area is home to a diverse range of equine

sports and equine breeding ventures. It is a premier area for thoroughbred racehorse

breeding, an industry which provides significant employment throughout the region. In turn

the horse owners provide an income to many support industries such as vets, farriers,

trainers, coaches and feed suppliers.

There is reasonable equine infrastructure within the region that could be consolidated with

an overarching regional plan rather than duplication by individual councils. Generally the


existing infrastructure needs some form of upgrade. There is a need for more covered riding

arenas and designated equine evacuation centres throughout the region.

There are barriers to growth with lack of employment opportunities and appropriate sized,

affordable properties the main ones. Fragmentation within the equine industry at a policy

and lobbyist level makes it difficult for local councils to engage with industry effectively.

There are opportunities for growth if town planning addresses the needs of the equine

community. As horse numbers in the region increase the equine service industries will follow,

bringing real economic benefit. Improved infrastructure at an affordable hire rate will attract

more equestrian events from surrounding regions, bringing in outside investment.

A Regional Equine Strategy should be developed with relevant stakeholders by adopting a

four point plan “to Maintain, to Protect, to Support and to Grow” the industry. This plan

would include major infrastructure developments and upgrades and simple, low cost

initiatives such as promoting the industry on council website.


9. References

1. de Visser, J. Horse Societies and Associations – unpublished data, researched from the

internet, December 2009.

2. Queensland’s Equine Industry: an overview, Queensland Government, 2005.

3. Gordon, J. The Horse Industry Contributing to the Australian Economy. RIRDC,

Canberra, 2001.

4. Somerset Regional Council, viewed 18 May 2012,

<http://www.somerset.qld.gov.au/home/-/asset_publisher/4n7L/content/grant-

awarded-for-kilcoy-showgrounds-master-plan?redirect=%2F>.

5. Kilcoy Race Course, Google Maps, viewed 1 June 2012,

<http://maps.google.com.au/maps?hl=en&pq=kilcoy+race+&cp=17&gs_id=3&xhr=t&q

=kilcoy+race+club&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&biw=1680&bih=930&wrapid=tl

jp133929333925020&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl> .

6. S, Hofffman, Ipswich City Council, email 2 May 2012, Rosewood Showground and

Equestrian Centre Masterplan (revision D) PDF.

7. Queensland Show Contact Details 2012, viewed 2 May 2012,

<http://www.qcas.net.au/default.asp?PageID=113&n=Members+Search>.

8. Queensland Racing 2012, TAB Clubs for Region, viewed 2 May 2012,

<http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/region-summary.aspx?region=9>.

9. Queensland Racing 2012, South East Queenland Clubs for Region, viewed 2 May 2012,

<http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/region-summary.aspx?region=1>.

10. Patinack Farm, viewed 2 May 2012,

<http://www.patinackfarm.com/racing/locations/>.

11. de Visser, J,2012,Survey of Equine Industry in South East Queensland, unpublished

data.

12. Office of Fair Trading, viewed 2 May 2012, < http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/check-

a-charity-or-association.htm>.

13. Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association, viewed 2 May

2012,<http://www.queenslandbreeders.com.au>.

14. Queensland Stallions 2011, TBQA, Toowoomba, Qld, 2011.

http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/check-a-charity-or-association.htm

http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/check-a-charity-or-association.htm


15. Racing Queensland 2012, viewed 11 May 2012,

<http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/harness/racing-information/race-clubs.aspx>.

16. Australian Harness Racing – meeting calendar, viewed 11 May 2012,

<http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-calendar.cfm?state=qld>.

17. Australian Harness Racing - studs, viewed 11 May 2012,

<http://www.harness.org.au/ausbreed/studs/INDEX4.HTM>.

18. Pony Club of Australia, viewed 14 May 2012,

<http://www.ponyclubaustralia.com.au/?Page=22082>.

19. Pony Club of Queensland Association (PCAQ), Secretaries List 2012, viewed 14 May

2012, <http://www.pcaq.asn.au/Secretary's%20Listing.htm>.

20. Equestrian Queensland – clubs, viewed 14 May 2012,

<http://www.qld.equestrian.org.au/db/ClubSearch.asp?Action=Display&MenuID=Info

rmation%2F14027%2F0%2CClubs%5F%2F14053%2F8135>.

21. Equestrian Australia, viewed 14 May 2012, < www.equestrian.org.au>.

22. Interschool Program, viewed 14 May 2012,

<http://www.qld.equestrian.org.au/site/equestrian/qld/downloads/Interschool/South

%20East%20Queensland%20Schools%20List%202012.pdf>.

23. Polocrosse Clubs, viewed 11 May 2012, <www.polocrosse.com.au >.

24. Polo Clubs, viewed 11 May 2012,

<http://www.queenslandpolo.com.au/?PageID=75&wp=75>.

25. Australian Campdraft Association, South East Zone, viewed 13 May 2012,

<http://www.campdraft.com.au/Page/264/DRAFTS-BY-ZONE#SEZ>.

26. Australian Campdraft Association, Events Calendar, viewed 13 May 2012,

<http://www.campdraft.com.au/Page/216/EVENTS-CALENDAR>.

27. Australian Campdraft Association, Results, viewed 28 May 2012,

<http://www.campdraft.com.au/Page/108/Recent-results>.

28. National Rodeo Association, viewed 23 May 2012,

<www.nationalrodeoassociation.com.au>.

29. Australian Quarter Horse Association, viewed 24 May 2012, <www.aqha.com.au>.

http://www.equestrian.org.au/


30. Gambling Community Benefit Fund, viewed 1 June 2012,

<www.olgr.qld.gov.au/grants/gcbf/index.shtml>.

31. Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, viewed 28 May 2012, < www.brisbanevalleyrailtrail.org.au>.

32. Wyaralong Dam, viewed 28 May 2012, < http://www.mtjoyceescape.com.au/horse-

trails.html>.

33. Hooper, P. Acute Respiratory Syndrome: A new virus disease affecting humans and

horses. RIRDC, Canberra, 1999.

34. Field, H.E., Barratt, P.C., Hughes, R.J., Shield, J. and Sullivan, N.D.(2000). A fatal case of

Hendra virus infection in a horse in north Queensland: clinical and epidemiological

features. Australian Vet. J. 78:4, 279-280.

35. Hodgson, J. Equine Exotic Diseases: A manual for horse owners. RIRDC, Canberra, 2002.

36. Australian Horse Industry Council Equine Influenza Impact Study, viewed 27 May 2012,

<http://www.horsecouncil.org.au/_upload/files/EI%20Impact%20Report.pdf >.

37. Qld DPI Situation Report, viewed 5 June 2012,

<http://horsedealsflu.blogspot.com.au/2007/11/qld-dpi-situation-report-for-

thursday.html>.

38. Qld DPI Situation Report 17, viewed 5 June 2012,

<http://horsedealsflu.blogspot.com.au/2007/10/dpi-qld_17.html>.

39. Regional Development Australia Ipswich and West Moreton Roadmap 2011.

40. Queenland Racehorse trainers, viewed 10 May 2012,

<http://www.racehorsetrainer.com.au/qld.html>.

41. http://www.racehorsetalk.com.au/index.php?topic=3987.0;wap2

42. Economic Development Strategy for Lockyer Valley Regional Council, March 2010.

43. Queensland Times, viewed 20 May 2012,

<http://www.qt.com.au/story/2012/05/16/new-valley-airport-set-for-take-off/>.

44. Boonah to Ipswich Trail, viewed 12 May 2012, <http://www.dlgp.qld.gov.au/regional-

planning/boonah-to-ipswich-trail.html>.

45. Sports House, viewed 6 May 2012,

<http://www.communities.qld.gov.au/sportrec/facilities/sports-houses/sports-house-

milton>.

46. City of Ipswich Council, viewed 19 June 2012,

<http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/community/education/building_better_clubs>.

http://www.mtjoyceescape.com.au/horse-trails.html

http://www.mtjoyceescape.com.au/horse-trails.html

http://www.racehorsetrainer.com.au/qld.html

http://www.racehorsetalk.com.au/index.php?topic=3987.0;wap2


47. Morgan Park, Warwick, viewed 2 June 2012, < http://www.wht.org.au>.

48. Lockyer Valley Regional Council, viewed 18 May 2012,

<http://www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/news-events/calendar/events>.

49. Scenic Rim Regional Council, viewed 18 May 2012, < www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au>.

50. City of Ipswich Council, viewed 18 May 2012, < http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au>.

51. Somerset Regional Council, viewed 18 May 2012, < www.somerset.qld.gov.au>.

http://www.wht.org.au/


10. APPENDICES

Appendix 1

The QTIS scheme

Source: http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/thoroughbreds/qtis.aspx

Queensland Thoroughbred Investment

Scheme

2011 QTIS Registration Form

Please contact 07 3869 9732

Racing Queensland and the Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association (TBQA) reached

agreement on a new QTIS structure to be implemented from August 1, 2012.

The new scheme is a hybrid version of the previous QTIS and QTIS 600 schemes and

delivers total benefits of $8.88M to be programmed for eligible two and three-year-olds.

Status Number

of bonuses

Bonus

amount

Total

Metropolitan 2YO & 3YO 75 $40,000 $3,000,000

Provincial 2YO & 3YO 305 $15,000 $4,575,000

Country 2YO & 3YO 185 $5,000 $925,000

Restricted races . . $380,000

Totals 565 . $8,880,000

This means eligible two and three-year-olds will compete in applicable races for an extra

$40,000 at metropolitan meetings, $15,000 at provincial meetings and $5,000 at non-TAB

meetings.

Additionally, the following restricted race series will be implemented throughout regional

Queensland for eligible horses.

Two-Year-Old Three-Year-Old

$50,000 - Townsville $50,000 - Townsville

$50,000 - Rockhampton $50,000 - Rockhampton

$30,000 - Mackay $30,000 - Mackay

$30,000 - Cairns $30,000 - Cairns

$30,000 - Emerald $30,000 - Roma

http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/thoroughbreds/qtis.aspx

http://www.racingqueensland.com.au/media/7668/qtis%20form%202012final.pdf


Both Queensland bred and breed back eligibility will remain the only eligibility criteria.

To be eligible for the new scheme the initial payment is required by October 14 in the

horses' yearling year and a sustaining payment by June 30 also in the horses' yearling

year.

Listed below is the payment structure for the initial payments required by October 14.

Queensland bred - $350 + GST Breed back - $900 + GST

Those yearlings where the initial payment has not been received by October 14th

can still be

eligible for the scheme. As outlined below there is a two tiered structure depending on whether

the October registration was undertaken, and whether the yearling is Queensland bred, or

eligible via the breed back component of the scheme, due by June 30th

.

Category Queensland bred Breed back

Initial payment made by October 14 $900 + GST $2500 + GST

No initial payment made by October 14 $2250 + GST $6300 + GST

Appendix 2

Additional Stud in the QTIS scheme

Oaklands Stud 1059 Umbiram Road, Umbiram Qld 4352 Enquiries: Neville Stewart MOBILE: 0418 718 011 Phone: 07 4691 0164 Fax: 07 4691 0105 Email : [email protected] Web: www.oaklandsstud.com

http://www.oaklandsstud.com/


Appendix 3

Non Racing Sector Survey Data

Average horses per person sampled in Ipswich and West Moreton LGA is 7

Sample 1 taken at 20 11 Qld Festival of Dressage 3rd July 2011

Pine Lodge Equestrian Centre, Taylors Road, Thornlands sample size 285 respondents

Sample 2 taken at Farmcraft Equine Expo 2011 Rosewood Showgrounds

Sample size 55 respondents

Sample 3 taken at the 2010 Qld Festival of Dressage July 2010

Pine Lodge Equestrian Centre, Taylors Road, Thornlands sample size 191 respondents

There were only 6 respondents that had been sampled at more than one event

and their second sample was removed from the data

Respondent Numbers by Region Sample 1 2 3 Total

Scenic Rim 16 18 8 42 Lockyer 10 4 3 17 Ipswich 7 12 4 23 Somerset 7 5 3 15 Region Total 40 39 18 97

Percentage of Respondents in Study Area from Overall Sample of 531 people Sample 1 2 3 Total

Scenic Rim 5.5% 33.0% 4.0% 8.0% Lockyer 3.5% 7.3% 1.5% 3.2% Ipswich 2.5% 22.0% 2.1% 4.3% Somerset 2.5% 9.1% 1.5% 2.8% Region Total 14.0% 71.4% 9.1% 18.3%

equine report 2012

Documents