The Gunnedah and District Pony Club held its annual mini camp recently, with everyone, especially the children and their trusty steeds, having a fantastic weekend.  
From cattle work to dressage, fancy dress to big ball, rider in action to polo cross, the weekend had it all.
Over the course of the weekend, 62 registered riders took part, including visiting club members from Coolah and Currabubula.
The cattle work was a huge hit for the participants, with JBR’s James Bradford donating stock to use.
James led the lessons, helping and guiding the older participants to cut out, work and hold a beast in the soft fall arena.  
He also organised for the young, led line children to have a go, bringing out quiet stock into the small arena. Armed with water pistols, the little children and ponies had a great time, while the adults leading the ponies raised a sweat, running back and forth. 
Gunnedah and District Pony Club president Flo Palmer said the minicamp went extremely well, with events catered to suit every rider of every skill level. 
“The three guest families from 
Currabubula were really impressed with the variety of different things we put on over the weekend,” Flo said.
“Karen Guy did an amazing job organising the program.
“We even had the members on the lunge line and taking away their reins and also a bareback section, helping to improve balance and hone their leg aids on their horses. 
“We could not really have a Christmas party last year with COVID restrictions, so we decided to also have a ‘Christmas in July’ party over the weekend which was a huge hit for everyone.”
Gunnedah and District Pony Club member Rylee Mitchell said the weekend was great.
“All of the instructors were really good and I took a lot out of it,” Rylee said.
“My favourite part was the rider in action which was a lot of fun and great to test out skills.”
Pony club secretary Di Hobden said the mini camp was a warm-up for their big annual camp to be held later in the year.
“We always hold the mini camp in the first weekend of July school holidays and it is always a wonderful event,” Di said.
“Not only do we have the big annual camp later in the year, but we are also hosting the Jamboree straight after it, so it is a huge year for the club.”

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