SZRP Meeting Update – August 2026

The State Zone Representative Panel (SZRP) met on 4 August to discuss a range of matters affecting Pony Club Victoria clubs, riders and volunteers. Key updates from the meeting are outlined below.

2027 State Dressage & Show Jumping Championships

Significant progress was made on the qualifying criteria for the 2027 State Dressage and Show Jumping Championships, following the introduction of the new standalone event format.

The final qualifying criteria documents have, since the date of this meeting, been published.

The 2027 State Dressage Championships will be held at Werribee, hosted by Central Zone.

Planning is also underway for the 2027 State Show Jumping Championships, with Southern Metropolitan Zone confirmed as host. A date is yet to be finalised. The event will not be scheduled over Easter or against Interschool competitions where possible.

Coaching and Volunteer Coaches

The panel discussed questions around coaching requirements, particularly for clubs engaging specialist guests such as equine therapists, farriers or dentists for one-off sessions.

These specialist guests are not required to hold PCA coaching qualifications; however, clubs should ensure appropriate checks are completed, including confirming Working With Children Check requirements, filling out a Third Party Provider form and recording their attendance.

PCV also confirmed that volunteer coaches remain an important part of Pony Club. Registered, financial club members who volunteer as coaches can continue to access the $0 coach membership fee, with refunds being processed for volunteers who have already paid.

Further simple guidance and a flowchart explaining coaching qualification and registration requirements will be provided to clubs.

Supporting Clubs

The panel continues to monitor clubs that may require additional support. Zone Representatives are working with clubs to understand their needs and identify opportunities for assistance.

The formal state-coordinated club visit program remains paused while the process is reviewed and improved. In the meantime, Zone Representatives are encouraged to continue supporting clubs informally where assistance is needed.

The panel are excited to work with Hay Pony Club, formerly Hay Memorial District Pony Club in NSW, which will become part of Northern Zone upon affiliation.

Dressage Arena Consultation

Consultation is continuing regarding a proposal to change the Grade 4 dressage arena size from 40m x 20m to 60m x 20m.

Feedback from zones has been mixed, with concerns including the availability of sufficient ground space at some clubs. Further consultation will take place through the zones, with the matter scheduled to return to the SZRP in October.

Looking Ahead

The updated PCV Strategic Plan 2026–2030, Creating Our Future, is ready for release, with a visual version currently being circulated for review before wider distribution.

The panel also discussed the new Masters (25+) rider category, which has been approved as a separate club-level ribbon/prize section for approximately 12 months, after which it will be reviewed.

Planning is continuing for the Prince Philip National Mounted Games squad, with training dates confirmed and fundraising underway to assist with the team's travel costs.

PCV will continue to provide updates to clubs and members as these initiatives progress.

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