Sport
26 January, 2026
Back to Basics pony camp revived
Last week, Zone 4 Pony Club revived its Back to Basics camp at Millmerran with great success.
After a period of dormancy, new life was breathed into the camp this year, marking the beginning of what the organisers hope will be an annual event.
The camp was opened up to include children within neighbouring zones 21 and 28, in the southern border region.
One of the organisers, and Millmerran Pony Club President, Pat Lunney, said this was well supported with eight riders from Goondiwindi participating in the camp.
A total of 35 riders, all predominantly under 16 years of age, took part with nine instructors volunteering their time to assist.
The camp began last Wednesday and concluded on Sunday around 1pm.
The morning sessions focused on practical lessons with five rotations - campdrafting, dressage, flat work, tetrathlon, showjumping/sporting.
The afternoons were occupied with theory lessons on horse health, farriering, leather and rope work.
A priority of the camp was completing certificate work.
Each age group could reach a certain level of competency to be eligible for their certificate.
“We achieved everything we wanted to, we ticked every box,” Mr Lunney said.
“All riders left showing improvements both on and off the horse.
“It highlighted what Pony Club is all about - youth development, learning horsemanship and sportsmanship,” he said.
With the success of the camp, and to ensure its longevity, a sub-committee has been formed to manage the event in the coming years.
