CEO Update - October 2023

I hope this update finds you well and excited about the weeks ahead. I wanted to take this opportunity to share some important updates and achievements from the past month.

Firstly, we recently held our Annual General Meeting where we presented our 2022-23 Annual Report and Financial Statements.  The organisation is in a healthy position financially and there has been a lot of progress and positive momentum on key initiatives, including the structural reform and shared services.  .

I am pleased to welcome our new Chair, Christie Freeman, who brings her expertise and enthusiasm to lead us into the future. At the same time, I am delighted to welcome Rhett Oliver as our newest Director. Rhett's experience and passion for equestrian sports will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to our team.

Mark Bradley’s three year term as Chair has ended and we also farewelled outgoing Directors Stephanie Lyons and Elizabeth Owens. I want to express my gratitude to all 3 retiring Directors, for their dedicated service and commitment to our organisation.

Work on the structural reform is continuing, with significant progress being made.  The EA Board delivered the Reform discussion paper to State and Discipline Committee Chairs and is currently in the consultation phase.  There has been a lot of constructive feedback, which the Board is using to shape the future structure of the sport.  There is an enormous amount of work and detail that has been developed.  There will be further consultation with the broader membership over the coming months and numerous opportunities to input into the process.

The team and our athletes and well and truly into the preparation phase for the Paris Olympics and Paralympics next year.  The additional funding received from the AIS will continue to assist to ensure our team is well prepared and ready to go.  There are a number of events and activities – domestically and internationally – over the next few months that will provide opportunities to further qualify and also prepare for what is in front of us.

In terms of our sporting events here in Australia, we recently held the National Vaulting Championships at Sydney International Equestrian Centre which was a great success thanks to the hard-working committee, officials and volunteers, without whom these quality events would not be possible. The National Dressage Championships were also held last month, at Boneo Park in Victoria. This event included CPEDI2* and CPEDI3* competitions for our Para-Dressage riders, who showcased their exceptional skills and determination through inspiring performances.

I am pleased to welcome some new staff to our team, Claire Davis (Finance Manager), Andrew Barnett (Pathways Manager, High Performance), Ruth Trevallion (Athlete Wellbeing & Engagement Manager) and Coco Miles (Jumping Manager, High Performance). 

Looking ahead, we have two exciting events taking place this month. Firstly, the Australian Jumping Championships at Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC). This event promises to deliver thrilling competition and showcase the incredible skills of our Jumping athletes. Later in the month, also at SIEC, is the Sydney International 3DE, a highlight on the Australian Eventing Calendar which will undoubtedly provide a fantastic experience for both competitors and spectators alike.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support and dedication. Together we will continue to drive the growth and success of the sport.