Northside Gets Back in the Saddle

Article by Rachel Smith

Northside Riding Club, which draws a large number of members from the Northern Beaches, organised to be part of the Department of Primary Industry (DPI) Equine Influenza Surveillance Program on Sunday 20 January. Nearly 100 horses from the local area were blood tested for antibodies to the virus and micro chipped to allow them to move freely again.

In order to reduce the financial burden EI regulations placed on horse owners, the DPI have been attending a number of testing days held at various riding clubs around the state. Northside Riding Club quickly jumped at the chance to help its members get back in the saddle, organising a vet to visit the club grounds as well as subsidising the cost of the microchip.

The testing day not only was a benefit to club members, but also to many local equestrian business who have been struggling since the onset of EI in August last year. Riding school owners such as Jill Severn from Terrey Hills Riding School, and Soo Broster from Ardis Equestrian Centre, were able to have all their riding school horses tested and cleared at a minimal cost.

Northside Riding Club is planning a full calendar of horse activities for February and is hoping to encourage all its members to get back in the saddle. More information on upcoming events can be found at www.northsideridingclub.org.au.

Photo Caption: Northside Riding Club member Becky Soans watches on while veterinarian Brett Jones takes a blood sample from her horse Stork.