Important Update on Proposed Structural Changes in Equestrian Sport

We would like to take a moment to address the recent information shared by Equestrian Australia (EA) regarding the proposed structural changes to equestrian sport in Australia.

Equestrian Queensland recognises and appreciates the work that EA has undertaken in efforts to strengthen the future of our sport. We support a nationally aligned strategy that prioritises member experience, ensures long-term sustainability, and fosters the growth of equestrian sports across the country. We share the same vision of delivering high-quality services and creating a sport that inspires lifelong passion for equestrian activities.

We are taking every opportunity to engage with EA throughout the process and we are including our sport committee volunteers whenever possible. We want to reassure you that it is business as usual for EQ, and our dedicated Board, sport committees, and staff remain committed to supporting clubs and event organisers with their events, developing all athletes on their equestrian journey, facilitating development opportunities for officials and championing accredited coaches.

However, we have serious concerns regarding the proposed structural changes and the limited consultation that has taken place.  The process through which this proposed structure has been developed has lacked meaningful engagement with key stakeholders, including state branches, and members. It does not take on board the recommendations or considerations provided by the National Equestrian Strategy and Structural Working Group (NESSWG) and their report.  This absence of consultation risks undermining the very foundation of the sport we seek to strengthen.

Despite our requests, no financial modelling has been provided to us. This lack of transparency leaves us without a clear understanding of how funds and resources will be allocated under the proposed changes, making it difficult for us to assess the full impact to our members.

The proposed changes, while well-meaning, do not fully address the unique needs of the various states. Local presence and relationships with government, communities, and members are critical to delivering events, securing state funding, and maintaining the personalised support that our members expect. By moving to the proposed structure without adequate consultation or detail, we fear that these local connections will be weakened, which will be detrimental to the overall member experience and service delivery.

Feedback from our members and volunteers has highlighted particular areas where further detail from, and engagement with, EA is vital, to ensure aligned belief in successful outcomes. EQ remains committed to working through these items with EA.

These include:

1. Tangible service delivery improvements e.g. prompt processing of member enquiries and accreditations and how structural changes will/won’t assist.
2. How service delivery would be assured – and ideally expanded – while State branch boards are removed.
3. State-based service delivery / local operational support has been crucial for effectively supporting clubs and event organisers; what might this look like moving forward?
4. How will development opportunities and pathways for all members be prioritised for improvement, as part of the proposed structural changes?
5. How will communication and collaboration gaps between state and national discipline committees and offices be improved?

EQ believes that change must be driven by collaboration, transparency, and inclusivity. The lack of consultation in shaping this new structure is concerning and does not allow for a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by different states and territories. Without addressing the cultural, behavioural, and relational issues within the sport, structural changes alone will not lead to the desired outcomes. In fact, we believe that pushing forward with this model prematurely could create unnecessary disruption and further confusion for our members.

In order to truly benefit our members and the future of equestrian sports, we urge Equestrian Australia to pause, engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders, and consider how best to tailor the national strategy in a way that genuinely reflects the needs and aspirations of the entire equestrian community.

We remain committed to collaborating with EA to create a sustainable and vibrant future for our sport. By fostering a cooperative approach, we can effect changes that benefit all members while preserving the strengths of our local communities.

We note the recent announcement from EA and Equestrian South Australia (ESA) regarding the trial of the restructure model, and we look forward to hearing the feedback and learnings from this trial.

We invite all EQ members to participate in our upcoming online members forum at 7:00pm Wednesday 30 October 2024 (registration link here).  We also invite all volunteers who hold positions with our affiliated clubs and event organisers to participate in our bi-annual club and affiliates forum at 7:00pm Monday, October 28, 2024 (registration link here).

Finally, we invite all members to submit any questions and feedback via the survey link HERE.  We will address all questions and feedback during the forums and on the EQ website.

Thank you for your continued support. 

Nicholas Ballard – Chair
Emily Coggan – Vice Chair
Gary Lung – Treasurer
Peta Fielding – Director
Dave Holland – Director
Karim Cham – Director