The Board of Directors | Equestrian Australia

The Board of Directors

Nicholas Ballard, Chair	With a lifetime of experience in the equestrian industry as a competitor, owner, parent, official, and volunteer Nicholas is dedicated to giving back to this vibrant sport. From 2021-2024, Nicholas has proudly served on the Equestrian Queensland (EQ) Board, including as Vice Chair in 2021 and Chair from 2022. This role has allowed Nicholas to build effective and lasting relationships that foster the sustainable growth of our community. Nicholas’s priorities include: - Supporting affiliated clubs and event organisers - Empowering EA-accredited officials - Championing EA-accredited coaches - Developing our athletes Nicholas was elected to the Board on 15 November 2024 for a term of three years.
Jade Findlay	Jade Findlay is a very experienced Event rider who has competed at 4 and 5* consistently for over 20 years. She has produced horses competitively and had great success winning at 4* level as well as representing Australia in 2019. She still rides at 4* today with a group of nice younger horses in her competition string. She runs a very successful Thoroughbred business with her husband, with over 140 horses in her care at Hannover Lodge in Wilberforce. Her experience across multiple businesses, sitting as a director, holds her in good standing, with experience in strategic planning, HR, training, conflict resolution, and safety processes and procedures. Jade was appointed as the Athlete Director on 25 September 2025 for a term of three years.
Brett Cantle	With more than three decades of active involvement in equestrian sport as a competitor, coach, educator and administrator, Brett Cantle is deeply committed to the sport’s ongoing development, safety and professionalism. Having evented successfully to 4* level and competed in Jumping and Dressage, he brings a comprehensive understanding of equestrian pathways from grassroots participation through to elite performance. As the former Chair of Equestrian Queensland and Eventing Queensland, Brett led both organisations through periods of strategic consolidation and cultural renewal, with a clear focus on member engagement, transparency and alignment with national objectives. His leadership emphasised strengthened governance, improved communication, and the development of sustainable systems that support long-term growth. In addition to his equestrian leadership roles, Brett has more than thirty years’ experience as a senior primary school teacher, developing strong skills in leadership, communication, curriculum design and staff development. This education background complements his governance approach, combining role clarity, structure and inclusion to build environments where people and organisations can thrive. Brett is a Level 2 Eventing Specialist Coach and EA Coach Educator, passionate about developing pathways that uphold high standards of coaching, rider development, welfare and performance. He believes the Equestrian Australia Board plays a pivotal role in setting the culture and strategic vision for the sport, and he is committed to contributing to a unified, transparent and forward-looking national body. Brett was elected to the Board on 19 November 2025 for a term of three years.
Nicola Rockwell	Nicola is a participant in AOR dressage along with being a parent of child who competes at an FEI level in Dressage and Eventing and lives in the Hills District of Sydney In her extensive tenure on sporting committees, encompassing both equestrian and baseball organisations, she has played a pivotal role in facilitating substantial growth. Nicola’s contributions have been instrumental in increasing participation rates and fostering financial growth through strategic sponsorship acquisitions. Through leadership and dedication, she has consistently elevated clubs to new heights, fostering a culture of excellence and achievement. In addition to Nicola’s involvement in sporting committees, she has had the privilege of serving as the CEO of Rockwell Information Services, a successful software company for the past 20 years. During her tenure, she has overseen the company's evolution, shaping it into a recognised industry leader. Nicola’s responsibilities have included strategic planning, team leadership, and the development of innovative solutions that have propelled the company to unparalleled success. People management is a cornerstone of Nicola’s leadership philosophy. Over the years, she has built and nurtured high-performing teams that are both inspired and committed to our collective mission. My approach emphasises collaboration, talent development, and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Nicola has substantial experience in online learning and compliance. This unique combination of expertise has equipped her with the ability to ensure that strategic direction and compliance considerations are seamlessly integrated into all stages of planning. This approach ensures that her company remains not only innovative but also compliant with regulatory and industry standards. Nicola was elected to the Board on 19 November 2025 for a term of three years.