Outcomes of 2014/15 Equestrian Australia AGM

The Equestrian Australia (EA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held in Sydney, bringing together EA’s members, those being the six state branches, for an annual review of the organisation’s operations.

State representatives were presented with the EA Annual Report and a presentation from Chief Executive Officer Grant Baldock, who provided a progress report on the organisation’s key achievements, of which some include:

• EA membership increased to 19,519 members, a rise of 4.40%
• EA accredited coaches increased to 1,018, a rise of 12.24%
• 1,609 Ready Set Trot participants for the year, a rise of 16.93%
• Resigning of an MOU with Pony Club Australia and signing of MOU with Riding for the Disabled Australia
• Australia was one of only 10 countries to field teams in all disciplines at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games where Boyd Exell won back to back individual Driving gold medals
• All Olympic disciplines now qualified for Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

In her address to representatives, EA Chair Mrs Judy Fasher said the organisation was performing strongly in many areas but acknowledged opportunities existed for further improvement.

“EA’s national membership structure has continued to deliver positive growth. Also promising is the rise in the number of young people getting involved in equestrian through our participation and competition programs.

“Juniors account for approximately a quarter of our current membership and the additional participation funding EA has secured from the Australian Sports Commission will open the door for future growth in this area. 

“We are grateful to the Australian Sports Commission for its continued faith in our ability to deliver grassroots programs.”

Mrs Fasher told representatives the best outcomes for sport would be delivered through working in unison.

“EA is committed to working with the states and our national sport committees to deliver the best outcomes for members.  To that end effective and efficient governance will be a priority.

“There is no disputing the challenges faced this year in relation to Hendra Virus and the board is committed to finding the most practical resolution.   A report from the review panel is expected soon and EA will be seeking additional stakeholder and member feedback.  

“The Olympic year ahead presents us with unique opportunities and EA will be working hard to capitalise on the increased exposure that the Rio Games will bring. As well as striving for continued growth we will be exploring options for more financial support from the private sector as well as strategies to diversify income streams.”   

To view the EA 2014-2015 Annual Report - click here.

EA Board Elections

Following on from the recent Board elections, Equestrian Australia (EA) national board members Liza Carver (NSW) and Mark Hopkinson were voted back onto the Board for a three year term (this will be Ms Carver’s second term as an Elected Director and Mr Hopkinson’s first term as an Elected Director as he previously joined the board in a casual vacancy position).

Two new directors have also been appointed to the board, those being Mr Daniel Stoneman (Vic) and Mr Christopher Styring (Vic).

Mr Stoneman has more than 25 years of experience in the equestrian industry as a competitor, breeder and trainer. Professionally he has experience in the recruitment industry and has 10 years of experience working with leading organisations on their recruitment initiatives.

Mr Styring has a Bachelor Business Management and over 20 years of experience in the sports and entertainment industries working in senior Commercial positions for organisations such as Tennis Australia and the Richmond Football Club.

The National Board is appointed by EA’s members (the EA State Branches) from nominations received from the EA membership. Elected Directors may serve three consecutive three year terms.