I wish to thank the Executive Committee for an amazing job, through what can only be described as the most surreal year we have all seen.
2020 started with bush fires and ended with the world plunged into a Worldwide pandemic, the likes of which, had not been seen in one hundred years. As we all adjusted to the new norm, Pony Club did its best to find a way to work within the restrictions.
Early March saw the start of work on our new arena fencing, this project had already been delayed due to fire bans, so we were more than excited to see work commence in March. By April, the two new arenas (stage one) were finished, before COVID-19 sent us into lockdown. As I write this, the last part of the fencing is due to be completed later this month (Feb 2021), this will see three wash bays built, which will be a wonderful addition to our facilities.
Work on the cross-country course continued through 2020, and we managed to get a new course designed and all the jumps put in place. There is more work to be done before the course is full approved, but this should be done in early 2021.
Musters were cancelled from March until May due to COVID restrictions on group gatherings. From June, Musters were back but attendee numbers were down, it was great to see those members that did make it. We held our internal Ribbon Day in October, a great day was had by all, with some truly memorable fancy-dress costumes. We finished the year with our break-up party, which was held at our grounds. Although the weather was hot, we all managed to stay cool with water guns used to help or maybe hinder competitors in the games and a water slide on the hill.
There were not as many competitions in 2020 as usual, but it was great to see some members getting out to the few events that were on. It was also great to watch as members took the downtime to work on new things with their horses.
A massive thank you to our instructors, your flexibility and willingness to embrace the changes imposed on us this year is hugely appreciated.
A special thank you to the parents/carers and supporters for all your help and support, which was on display at our internal Ribbon day, as you came out in force to support our riders. We could not get through these days or the musters, competitions and working bees without you.
I would like to wish the incoming committee a successful year and I look forward to working with you.
Thank you
Shirley Parker
President
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