(by idunlop / Public Domain)
From Beenleigh to Caboolture, it easier than ever to climb on a horse in Brisbane. While thoroughbreds race across Albion Park, Clydesdales trot along Brisbane's parkland. The regal sport of equestrian is now more accessible as a hobby-horse for animal lovers of all ages.
Before riding like the wind, you'll need a helmet, long pants and closed shoes. It's more fun if you're a healthy weight, avoiding tender saddle sores.
When you arrive at the stable, introduce yourself with the horse's handshake – place the back of your hand near the horse's nose. It's a great way to break the ice and it works with most animals (I'm yet to try it with snakes, crocodiles, and sharks though).
To convince your parents to buy a mare, try introduction sessions or discuss your goals with the club's coach for the basics to owning your own Black Beauty.
Most clubs also offer casual pricing for trail and park rides, and private and group lessons for guided fun in the saddle.
At every club, safety is the top priority.
Some of the top picks in Brisbane:
On the banks of the Tingalpa Reservoir, the centre hosts wedding parties on the weekends. Nearby at the stables, riders of all ages can take their pick of the team.
The Centre has trail rides each Sunday, costing only $58 with boots and helmet provided for the leisurely trot canter through manicured gardens and bushland.
Lessons for dressage, jumping and galloping are on Mon-Thur and on weekends with special sessions for tiny jockeys, 3 years old and up.
As you master your horsecraft, try Gymkhana, a time-trial course testing technique and poise.
While adults can with the large stable of horses, children can celebrate with birthday parties, holiday camps and a kids club.
(by Jimmy McIntyre / CC BY-SA 2.0)
In the Gap, the centre at Wattle Creek, has been teaching riders for over 25 years. It's stacked with qualified coaches providing personalised lessons and general courses.
There are groups for dressage, jump, confidence and horse management to give riders a broad knowledge of horsecraft.
Children 6 years and older can join "Hoof Beats", a special course developed for our tiniest riders, growing into the "Equestrian Australia" when they reach 12 years old.
30-minute lessons for adults start at $84, with discounts for longer sessions and bulk buys.
Spread over 3,500 acres, the homestead on Dunlop Lane in Kurwongbah has an activity for every rider, whether social, beginner or pro.
The lessons are in enclosed yards, with trail rides leading out into the bush.
Relive
City Slickers hi-jinx on a camping trip or have a farm stay to sample local produce and wine.
For romantic anniversaries, book a ride at sunset and sip champagne on at the beach.
Children can attend school holiday and weekend riding clubs
The stables house horses with temperaments to match every rider, as cute Shetland ponies share hay with thoroughbreds and 16-hand Arabian stallions.
In Thornlands, instructors with experience in Britain and Germany train riders of all skill levels, continuing a service started over 20 years ago.
Dressage and preparation for performance events are specialities at the centre, only 30 minutes from Brisbane.
Lessons for adults and children focus on engaging with nature, safe riding skills and making new friends with other riders.
Once you've found your favourite among the 33 master horse, hone your riding skills then lease your mount on competition day, riding to victory.
(by TheresaOtero / Public Domain)
The therapeutic benefits of riding are offered to able-bodied and those with a disability at this specially adapted centre in Pinjarra Hills.
Trained volunteers create personalised programs for each rider to provide motor and sensory input, interaction with gentle horses and levels of independence. The primary focus is safety, for the riders and the animals.
Dressage, games and development squads give riders of all abilities a fulfilling goal to aim for.
Volunteer, contribute or signup on the
website.
Have you found another horse riding heaven? Please let us know, we love to discover new favourites.
