Thanks & Rodeo

Thank you very much for keeping us all right up-to-date with EI issues for almost four months.

We know Horse Deals must also be suffering because of EI and inability of people to advertise and sell horses, and won't forget what you've done when (hopefully) EI is gone. Meanwhile to all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy (EI free) New Year.

I'm a photo journalist specialising in campdrafting, and with my editors, since EI we've had to work extra hard to fill the mags with interesting stuff ... but think we've succeeded, and thanks to all those people who have made themselves available for interviews and photo sessions. Your inspiring stories, I'm sure are encouraging to other horse people now feeling despondent because of EI.

And I would like to comment on blog from Greens MP Sue Pennicuik re the cruelty of rodeo. She claims bulls and horses - and other animals? - are provoked into bucking with spurs, electric prods and flank straps. This is not so. I suggest she contact the various Rodeo Associations and rodeo stock contractors and get the true story.

All associations have Animal Welfare Code of Conduct policies which are strictly enforced.

I've seen many cowboys battered and bruised, but in 40 years just one horse seriously injured and no bulls harmed at all, when I've attended rodeos.

Cheers
Jan Elder