Equestrian

On Thursday 4 December we held our Inter-House Jumping and Equestrian Awards evening and what a wonderful night it was. We had a huge turnout with competitors from ELC to Year 12, and I am certain the highlight for everyone was the chance to ride in the new Wilma Hearn Arena! 

Thank you to our Captain, Evie Kennedy, who judged all afternoon, a huge job on a very warm afternoon. Thank you to the parents, grandparents, siblings and friends that attended, and to everyone who pitched in to help. If you were on the gate, cooking the BBQ, organising food and drinks and helping pick up poles or alter the course, these events simply cannot happen without your support and I am so grateful.

Congratulations to Young House, our Inter-House Jumping winners for 2025, and Sidney Bull who won the best presented award! 

2025 Equestrian Awards 

Robert Brown Perpetual Award – Charles Hiscock

The Robert Brown Award is given to a student who over the year has demonstrated that they are the best, most versatile and competitive rider. Someone who consistently steps up, works hard, and strives for excellence. This year’s recipient has had an outstanding year, with wins and placings at the Interschool State Championships, large shows and events through the year. 

Marcus Oldham Award – Finley Hiscock

The Marcus Oldham Award recognises a student who shows exceptional dedication, promise, and true motivation to advance in the equine industry. This years recipient has embodied all of these qualities. His improvement has been immense, his success impressive, and his attitude consistently positive even when presented with challenges. He is hardworking, always willing to help, always ready to learn, and always focused on doing his best. 

Anderson Family Award – Senior Encouragement Award – Violet Lynch

The Anderson Family Award is presented to a senior rider who has shown remarkable growth. This rider is simply not the same rider she was a year ago, her confidence has soared, and her improvement has been incredible. Her dedication, from her riding to her immaculate presentation, clean tack, and beautifully cared-for horse is something to admire. 

Boyd Trophy – Most Improved Senior Rider – Rachel Aitken

This year’s Boyd Trophy goes to a rider who has shown enormous growth. She has developed significantly in skill, leadership, and confidence, and her partnership with her horse has become something truly special. She is dedicated, thoughtful, and a genuine pleasure to have around the centre. 

Page Wood Award – Most Improved Junior Rider – Adelaide Farquharson

The Page Wood Award recognises the junior rider who has shown the greatest improvement, and this rider has absolutely earned her place here. She has a wonderful trying attitude, always giving 100%, listening carefully, and concentrating in every lesson. Her improvement this year has been enormous, and her commitment is something every coach appreciates and admires. 

Junior Outstanding Achievement – Elsie Dyer

This year’s Junior Outstanding Achievement Award goes to a rider who has excelled across multiple disciplines. She has shown huge improvement and outstanding success in jumping, eventing, dressage, and even the State Tetrathlon Championships. Her versatility and determination make her a standout rider, and her achievements this year have been truly exceptional. 

Directors Award – Matilda Mercer

This award is presented to a rider who, in my view, has consistently demonstrated exceptional presentation throughout the year. She wears her school uniform, arrives with clean tack, polished boots and a well-cared for horse. What makes it even more special is that she does all if this herself. Her attention to detail, respect for her sport and the pride she shows speak volumes.

Thank you to all our equestrian students for a wonderful 2025. Your growth, resilience, enthusiasm, and teamwork make this program something truly special, whether you are a boarder, have lessons each week or represent the school at competitions. You have worked so hard this year and watching each of you develop as riders and as people has been a privilege. I look forward to a wonderful year in 2026.