11 #LoveOfTheHorse AnnuAl RePORT 2017 – 2018 Interschool The 10th Anniversary of EA Interschool National Level Competition saw everyone back where it all began in 2008 at the Toowoomba Showgrounds in Queensland. Marcus Oldham College, Australia’s leading educator in Equine Management, was the 2017 naming rights sponsor for the Australian Interschool Championships. They have signed on for a further two years, supporting our young riders and offering them a pathway after Interschool to develop their potential and pursue a future career within the equine industry. In 2017 we saw one of the largest contingents of riders make the journey all the way to Queensland and contest this event. 320 riders and their support crews, along with 350 horses in tow, travelled from all around the country to converge on Toowoomba. The competition was held over four intense days of non-stop equestrian action in the disciplines of Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Combined Training and Show Horse. “Competitors qualified through Regional and State pathways to make the Australian Championships teams. The exceptional quality of horse and rider combinations showcased in performances of these athletes across a range of disciplines in both Primary and Secondary is a testament to the dedication and commitment towards a truly unique and rewarding partnership,” said the CEO of Equestrian Queensland, Matt Helmers. Moving Forward Strategic Review and Expansion of Youth Pathways Report Funded by the Australian Sports Commission, EA engaged SBP to review the structure of the existing Interschool competition and provide recommendations to elevate the delivery of the competition, and improve the national and strategic alignment of the equestrian pathway. The specific objectives of the project were to: • Review the existing structure of the Interschool Competition, and identify opportunities where EA can add value to the existing pathway • Identify the key operational strengths of each competition and develop a suite of case studies to share learnings • Provide a list of short-term improvement options to elevate the delivery of the Interschool Competition both at a state and national level • Present longer-term recommendations that will improve the National and strategic alignment of the pathway Output from the findings included the following: Vision Options: “A national Interschool pathway that promotes participation and education, and provides individual development opportunities.” “An accessible, social, and educational Equestrian competition that inspires the future generation of Equestrian Sport athletes.” “A national Interschool pathway which instils sportsmanship, dedication and commitment, and represents the true essence of Equestrian Sport.” Mission To provide equestrian sport competition for school aged children, in a culture of learning, excellence and achievement and embed a culture of sportsmanship, respect, volunteerism, safety and horse welfare. TheoutcomesfromthisreviewformedpartofanImplementation workshop that was attended by key stakeholders and all findings have been shared with State Branches and form the basis for the future development of the EA Youth Pathways. MOU – Industry Partnerships Riding for the Disabled Association Australia (RDAA) have again signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with EA that has been in place since early 2015. This partnership will continue to offer more opportunities for riders with a disability nationally. EA and the RDAA will explore and develop opportunities for co- operation between the two organisations, particularly in relation to the development and delivery of education resources, as well as the education of their members and the general public in all aspects of Equestrian sport, horse management and the Para classification of riders. Tracey Vardy Pathway Specialist – Athletes