Important Notice: On days of total fire ban rides are automatically cancelled. All nominees for rides will be notified of any changes brought about by extreme weather or other circumstances. Day Members must contact the Club before registering online.

All enquiries & nominations to Alan Salter at alg_salter@bigpond.com , or 0427 357 941.

All ride nominations must include the nominees name and mobile, their emergency contact’s name and mobile, and a declaration that the nominee will NOT attend the ride or event if they are knowingly exposed to Covid 19, or experience cold or flu like symptoms prior to the event

RIDE FEES: Non-Club riders, including Day Members, $5, to be paid on arrival.

Ride Host Emergency Contact Janet McSparron – 0459 034 733 on day of ride only, if unable to contact Alan Salter.

VENUE: BOTANICAL GARDENS SMYTHESDALE. There is ample parking for floats and it is gooseneck friendly. Toilet and horse water available. Please be aware that a condition of use of the grounds/facilities is that we do not leave or spread manure under bushes etc. PLEASE BRING A BAG TO TAKE ALL MANURE HOME.

RIDE DESCRIPTION: This ride will take in the local bush tracks. There will be opportunity for trotting/cantering depending on track conditions and participant wishes. Horses should be shod or booted, or have well-conditioned feet. We will be having a saddlebag lunch on track, or lunch back at floats, depending on the weather and the wishes of attendees. BYO lunch and drink. Thanks to Janet for hosting this ride.

Please arrive about 9.00 am to register and saddle up for a 10 am (sharp) ride out. Horseless Muster @ 9:45 am.

Nomination/Declaration wording:

I, enter name and mobile number, wish to attend the Smythesdale Trail Ride on the 24th February 2024. I declare that I will not attend if I am knowingly exposed to Covid-19, or if I experience cold or flu like symptoms prior to the event. My emergency contacts name and mobile number is, enter details.

Rules of the Ballarat Social Trail Horse Riders Club

~ Incorporating “Covid-19 Protocols” ~

Revised 8th August 2023.

1. Members should become familiar and comply with the ATHRA Code of Conduct & these BSTHRC Rules.

2. No person shall attend a Club ride or other event if they are experiencing a temperature, cold or flu like symptoms; or there is a possibility they may pass on any illness whatsoever to others.

3. During any period of “government-imposed restrictions” relating to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the BSTHRC will ensure compliance with rules and regulations currently in force.

4. All intending riders at any BSTHRC ride or event must email their nomination in the prescribed form to alg_salter@bigpond.com , or other nominated email address.

5. Nominations must include the nominees name and mobile, their Emergency Contact’s name and mobile, and a declaration that they will NOT attend if they are knowingly exposed to Covid-19, or experience cold or flu like symptoms prior to the ride or event.

6. Members are required to sign the Ride Attendance Register upon arrival at a ride venue.

7. If subsequent to nominating for a ride or event, a nominee is exposed to Covid-19, or becomes unwell with cold or flu like symptoms, they MUST immediately notify the Club. They MUST NOT attend any rides or events until they receive a negative test for Covid-19.

8. Members testing positive to Covid-19 must comply with Government requirements.

9. The Trail Boss or a member of the BSTHRC Committee may at their discretion exclude a rider if they believe that the rider’s presence may place others at risk, and the rider shall leave the venue immediately.

10. All attendees at BSTHRC rides or events should be mindful of social distancing and avoid unnecessary close contact and crowded situations.

11. All attendees must observe recognised biosecurity measures.

12. Ride fees must be paid on arrival, the exact fee to be placed in the receptacle provided.

13. A lame or sick horse must not be brought to Club rides or events. If you suspect your horse is unwell, DO NOT bring it to a ride. Members should remain mindful of horse health and welfare issues, and apply appropriate biosecurity strategies at all times.

14. The Trail Boss shall have the discretion to exclude a horse they believe may be unwell or suffering any injury.

15. BSTHRC strongly recommends that all riders have Ambulance Cover. An ambulance will be called if deemed appropriate by the Tril Boss, the injured rider being responsible for all expenses.

16. The BSTHRC recommends that all riders wear an approved riding helmet. Riders under 18 years, and riders registered as a Junior Member must wear an approved riding helmet.

17. Riders under 16 years must be accompanied & supervised by their parent or guardian, or an adult member nominated in writing by their parent or guardian.

18. All riders must carry a lead rope and halter on all trail rides.

19. Horses known to kick must wear a red ribbon in their tail.

20. All riders must advise the Trail Boss of any pre-existing medical condition prior to the commencement of a ride. They should also carry any appropriate medication, including EpiPen if applicable.

21. Horses must be appropriately fit and conditioned for the intended ride, including adequately conditioned feet, boots and/or shoes.

22. Stallions may only be used after prior approval from the Committee; and must display a blue ribbon on their head gear and tail.

23. Breast plates and cruppers are recommended.

24. Unless otherwise stated, DOGS are not permitted at rides or events. Dogs are not permitted to accompany a ride.

25. Rider participation signifies their understanding and acknowledgement of these Rules and the ATHRA Code of Conduct.