Sean Cunningham, Narrandera Argus
Narrandera is saddling up for a major milestone soon as those involved with the Narrandera Horse Trials are set to mark 50 years of equestrian excellence with a celebratory function at the Narrandera Race Club on Saturday, August 9.
One of regional NSW’s most respected horse trials competitions, the annual event attracts riders, officials and spectators from throughout Australia.
Hunter Doughty, a member of the Riverina Equestrian Association (REA) Horse Trials Narrandera organising committee and showjumping course designer, said the golden jubilee would be a time to reflect on the event’s proud history and toast the multitude of people who have helped shape the club over five decades.
The anniversary celebration will be more than just speeches and sipping champagne.
Historical displays featuring decades-old newspaper and magazine articles from the past will be on display, offering guests a chance to stroll down memory lane as the club showcases its rich and lasting legacy.
“We are expecting up to 100 people who have helped the club to get to where it is today to gather and tell tales about the club and their involvement,” Hunter said.
“We are working on a guest speaker at present and we are awaiting confirmation before it can be announced.”
Hunter is also pleased about another recent accolade for the group.
“As recently as this week we have another club graduate, Andrew Cooper, now based in Queensland,” he said.
“He has just landed in Germany to represent Australia in Eventing at Aachen, at the World Equestrian Festival in early July. It will be Andrew’s first time to represent Australia.”
Hunter said Equestrian NSW is attempting to book a venue to train new officials in the sport, in conjunction with the Narrandera Horse Trials later this year, which would help build the next generation of equestrian judges and stewards.
Narrandera’s status as a regional equestrian hub will be on full display with the Horse Trials expected to attract more than 1000 visitors to the Pony Club and Rodeo Grounds, which Hunter described as a training ground for future talent.
Some of the finest equestrians from across the country compete in the two-day showcase of dressage, show jumping and thrilling cross-country disciplines.
The event is designed for riders ranging from grassroots to elite, has included a designated area for spectators, on-site catering and some thrilling equine action during previous Trials.
It also boosts the town’s economy with the influx of visitors and competitors. Based on sports research and commissioned tourist impact studies by NSW Tourism, families and spectators have spent an estimated $120,000 at each of the previous events.
As the countdown to this year’s Trials begin, it’s clear the event is galloping into the future at full stride, providing a great opportunity for the less experienced riders to rub shoulders with the best in the country.
This article appeared in Narrandera Argus, 12 June 2025.
