They reported on the successful Olympic campaign and presented the Ministers with framed photographs of the Silver-medal-winning Australian Eventing Team in appreciation of the additional $1.5 million funding the EFA received from the Federal Government through the Australian Sports Commission. Both Ministers had been instrumental in securing the grant that help put the equestrian Olympic preparations back on track after the severe disruption of plans following the outbreak of Equine Influenza in Australia.

The Ministers congratulated the EFA and the Team on achieving the excellent Olympic results.

Geoff provided the Ministers with an overview of the campaign and the excellent performances of the many "Olympic newcomers" before and at the Games.

Minister Burke asked about the EFA position on vaccination and stressed the need for the horse industry to sign the Emergency Animal Diseases Response Agreement. He suggested that it would be in the industry’s best interests to start building a fighting fund. Geoff stressed the need for independent EFA representation on industry bodies to enable the sport’s views to be heard and considered appropriately.

Geoff also presented key aspects of the Equestrian sector, its strength and contribution to the economy and its reach into the community, especially in rural areas. There was also discussion about the current inquiry into the Australian sporting system by the Independent Sport Panel headed by highly-regarded businessman David Crawford.  The EFA has been invited for direct discussions with the Panel and a presentation of its views about the sport system and operation.  Minister Ellis encouraged the EFA to put its views on the Australian sport system, how it could be improved and what funding was required to maintain and enhance Australia’s international performance.

For more information about this inquiry, go to http://www.sportpanel.org.au/internet/sportpanel/publishing.nsf .

The EFA appreciates the close and positive manner in which the new Rudd Government has worked with us in regard to Equine Influenza and the growing of Equestrian Sport in Australia.