History

Some information sent in by Sue Simmonds (Ratcliffe)

The first competition was held at Salty Creek, Edgeworth (Barnsley) at the home of Kim May Vonda and Johns daugter). Of particular interest was that Carolyn Lieutenant (Law) came to support the club riding an appaloosa. From memory this was a great day.

Hunter Valley Dressage was founded on the 2nd June 1976 by a group of enthusiastic equestrians and they held their first meeting on the 7 July 1976.

These people were Robyn Summers, Dot Leary, Brian Stevens, Peter Shaw, Ros Primmer, Greg Primmer, Diane Hurns, Darryl Blake, Sue Blake, Judith McMuray, Margo Mead, Jenny Giles, Mrs Franks, Norma Franks, Naomi Lintott, Joe Lintott and Sue Ratcliffe, Lois Howe, Wendy Robson and Kim May.

Over the years the club has seen many changes has had numerous venues but has gone from little beginnings to what it is today. It is amazing what a group of dedicated people can achieve when they put their ideas together. Without such people starting this club we would not have what we have today.

Lois Howe was elected to look after the canteen from the very start and I believe that Burgundy and Beef BBQ at $3.00 per person was the order of the day. Lois is still with us today making lovely lunches 30 years on, how is that for dedication and loyalty. What would we do without Lois.

Competitions were held at Barnsley, Mt Hutton Pony Club and in 1978 the first Dressage Comp was held at Maitland Showground. At this stage Driven Dressage was introduced .

In 1981 Hunter Valley Dressage held it's first Championships and in 1983 lodged a successful application to hold the State Championships .

In 2000 we lost the use of Maitland Showground and the Championships were held at Bradley Park (Polo Cross Grounds) that year and we have been there ever since. Thank you to Karen & Bob Broadhurst, Nichola Paff and Penny Wood for allowing us to use their lovely photos.

Thank you to Karen & Bob Broadhurst, Nichola Paff and Penny Wood for allowing us to use their lovely photos.