Tom Quilty Magazine - 2024

Photo credit

Lynn Ruesseler

AERA President’s Welcome

On behalf of the AERA I welcome everyone to this year’s Tom Quilty Gold Cup Australian Championships @ Wirrina Cove on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsular, South Australia. Wirrina Cove has hosted this event before in 2017 and what a wonderful time was had by all. For the riders, in particular, the sweeping views across Gulf St Vincent towards Adelaide (especially at night) and Kangaroo Island, are truly stunning.

For those of us land bound, take time to drive around and enjoy the local scenery and attractions. Discover many wonderful small towns and wine regions within easy travelling distance. You can be assured of a warm welcome from our South Australian neighbours.

The Tom Quilty brings together many ‘Quilty tragics’ from across the land. Enjoy greeting friends both old and new. I extend an especially warm welcome to our overseas participants and good riding to you all.

I invite everyone to attend the AERA Annual Awards presentation on the Thursday evening. Join in to celebrate

the remarkable achievements of competitors and horses who have performed at the top of our sport during 2023 and those riders and horses that have completed significant distance awards.

The Tom Quilty Gold Cup is our premier event on the AERA calendar. Thank you to everyone who has come to be part of this year’s event - riders, support crew and their precious horses, not to mention the people behind the scenes who are critical in making it all happen. On behalf of AERA I especially thank our vets, ride officials and volunteers who have consistently taken time out of their lives to support our wonderful sport. Without their assistance, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup simply could not occur.

Also, a shout out and thank you to all this year’s sponsors. These businesses and individuals are very important to our sport and the Tom Quilty could not be run to the standard it is without their valuable support. From a buckle, to a rug, to the major sponsor classes, we appreciate you all.

On behalf of the AERA, competitors and their crews I would like to sincerely thank the SA Tom Quilty Gold Cup organising committee. Many hours of thought, planning, preparation and dedication go into a Tom Quilty. May all your hard work be rewarded with good weather and safe riding for all. Thanks also to SAERA for being the host Division Association in 2024.

See you all @ TQ24.

Sioux Reid

AERA President

Sioux Reid with Weerina Arabian Princess

Photo credit - Annie Beach

Welcome to TQ24 Wirrina Cove South Australia

The South Australian Endurance Riders Association has a small membership of 65, however excels in organising our national ride, a testament to the passion and dedication of its members. Despite our limited man (and woman) power for the 2024 Quilty committee, the endurance community in South Australia is fiercely committed to promoting the sport and preserving the Tom Quilty Gold Cup traditions.

Riders competing in this event showcase their resilience and love for their horses, pushing the boundaries of physical and mental endurance. The Tom Quilty Gold Cup event serves as a gathering point for endurance enthusiasts from all over the country and the world.

We thank you for attending TQ24 and look forward to seeing you complete. My horse (Diamond R Turbo) and I earned our first buckle in the 2017 Quilty at Wirrina. This will be a fabulous course. GOOD LUCK to all riders, crew, volunteers and committee.

Lainie Ray SAERA President

Dear Participants and Support Crews

On behalf of the District Council of Yankalilla, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you all for the 58th Tom Quilty Gold Cup.

Our Fleurieu Coast is a region of extraordinary natural beauty, spanning some 750 square kilometres of South Australia’s glorious Fleurieu Peninsula.

Here, nature reigns supreme, from the high rainfall dairy country of Parawa to lush pine forests and pristine conservation parks, offering over 600 kilometres of roadways for you to explore.

With 25 kilometres of clean sandy beaches, it’s no wonder that 5,800 people call this place home –farmers, artists, retirees, and many thousands more weekend residents and seasonal holiday-makers.

The Fleurieu Coast is a treasure trove of undiscovered bays and byways, offering more to melt the heart than meets the eye.

As you compete and support your teams in this prestigious endurance event, we hope you take the time to experience the many wonders our region has to offer. From the stunning coastal vistas to the charming local communities, there is much to see and do.

Our District Council of Yankalilla is proud to support events like the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, which not only bring our community together but also promote our beautiful region to an interstate audience.

Such events highlight the importance of tourism to our local economy and showcase the unique attractions of the Fleurieu Coast.

We are delighted to welcome you once again to Wirrina Cove for what promises to be another unforgettable and exciting Tom Quilty Gold Cup on October 18th-19th, 2024. May your experience here be filled with thrilling competition, camaraderie, and the breathtaking beauty of the Fleurieu Coast.

Warm regards,

Darryl Houston

Mayor,

District Council of Yankalilla

As TQ24 appointed Head Chief Steward I would like to introduce myself. My name is Digger Leehane. A little bit of my background - I never had anything to do with Endurance rides until the late 1980’s when I met my wife. Then it all changed. Before I knew it, I was a volunteer check pointer, strapper and before too long a ride organiser, eventually becoming a rider. Around 2016 I qualified as a Chief Steward. Since then, I have Chief Stewarded at many Victorian and interstate Endurance rides and assisted at several Tom Quiltys.

I feel very honoured to be given this opportunity to adjudicate over our national championship ride. I pride myself on being very friendly, calm and approachable.

Welcome TO ALL RIDERS, STRAPPERS, VOLUNTEERS AND ORGANISERS

Welcome to the Tom Quilty National Championships Endurance Ride 2024, Wirrina Cove, South Australia.

I have done enough endurance riding to know the hours and dedication we put into training, feeding and preparing our horses in the hope we can get them to a ride before they hurt themselves in their own paddock! In saying that I absolutely understand the emotional and physical pressure we feel while attending such a ride as this. For those of you who have ridden at Wirrina Cove you can appreciate the magnitude of its rolling hills and unrivalled scenery stretching out across the Southern Ocean. Although it is a scenic ride it will be challenging on horse and rider. With the right amount of management, I do believe a successful completion is achievable for a TQ24 buckle.

We have assembled an amazing team of chief stewards and veterinarians.

Our outstanding veterinary team are there to monitor the welfare of your horses. It is imperative that they are treated with the utmost respect. I also expect everyone in attendance to treat all officials, volunteers and each other in a courteous manner on course and at ride base throughout the event.

I would personally like to thank the ride organisers that have donated many hours of their time and have worked tirelessly for many months, to ensure this event is a great success for all involved.

Looking forward to welcoming each and everyone of you. Take care and stay safe... Cheers Digger Leehane.

Event Directors Welcome

Iwarmly welcome everyone to the 58th Tom Quilty Gold Cup, being held this year at Wirrina Cove, South Australia. On behalf of the 2024 Tom Quilty Committee, I wish to thank one and all for your attendance at this year's event, particularly when considering the prevailing economic climate. Thank you for making the effort to journey to South Australia and support this year's event. I trust that you have a successful and enjoyable ride and return safely home with a treasured Quilty buckle.

Wirrina Cove is no stranger to the Tom Quilty, having previously hosted it in 2017. For those that rode in 2017, you will find the course similar in many aspects. The course is a mixture of rolling open paddock hills combined with forest trails and spectacular scenic views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. I hope you get time to take in the scenery during your ride.

We are extremely grateful to our hosts, the Wirrina Cove Holiday Park and the 9 private landowners who have graciously allowed access to their properties. I also acknowledge and thank the AERA and SAERA for their support in hosting this event.

I wish to introduce the 2024 Tom Quilty Gold Cup Committee, a small but dedicated group of South Australian endurance enthusiasts who have come together to stage this event. Whilst I am listed as the Event Director, my role has been minimal in comparison to these committee members. The committee have put in a tremendous number of hours, travel and personal expense over the last 2 years to bring this event to fruition. Most committee members live at least an hour plus from the ride base if not more. Please thank them personally if you come across them during the event.

Secretary: Amanda Penney

Treasurer: Sam Uren

Ride Base Directors: Paula and Tony Van Eck

Course Director: Melanie Scott

Merchandise: Stella Harbison and Lynn Ruesseler

Sponsorship, IT and social media: Melissa Bright

Volunteer Co-Ordinator: Tania Drever

SAERA Delegate: Lisa Brown

AERA Delegate: Sioux Reid

A huge thank you to the many Chief Stewards, Vets and volunteers who have also given their time and energy to participate in the event, assisting us in making it a successful and memorable experience for all. I also thank all the support crews and trust that you have a great Quilty experience.

Finally, I wish every competitor a safe, successful and enjoyable ride and that you return home with a cherished Quilty Buckle and a healthy, happy, sound horse.

Regards

Tom McCormack

Event Director

Photo

Course Directors Welcome

Welcome back to the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, for those who have been before and for first timers, enjoy. On arrival at the venue, you will quickly realise the only way out of camp is up on horseback and what goes up must come down. To those that were here in July 2017 the course is very similar, hopefully the weather won't be, and you will take advantage of the longer daylight hours to take in the amazing views from the top of the range, and yes, you can see Kangaroo Island.

COURSE DETAILS ARE ON THE TQ24 WEB SITE:

Leg 1 – 42km, Leg 2 – 41 km, Leg 3 – 40km, Leg 4 – 23km, Leg 5 – 14km.

There is a long list of thank yous for this course. First up Jessica Aistrope who was responsible for the course and the contacts made during 2016 and 17.

FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF OUR LANDOWNERS:

„ Joel and Sophie Catchlove – Leg 1, Leg 3 and Leg 4

„ Wirrina Cove Golf Course and Mini Golf New Terry –Leg 1, Leg 3 and Leg 4

„ Andrew Bailey (AB) – Leg 1, Leg 3 and Leg 4 and rescue float access

„ James Fisher – Leg 1, Leg 3 and Leg 4

„ Phil Reid – training track, Leg 2, Leg 3, Leg 4 and Leg 5

„ Dave McArdle – Leg 2, Leg 3 and Leg 4

„ Forestry SA

„ SA Water and Yankalilla Council

„ Tom Hunt – Leg2

„ Peter Mattey – Leg 2

„ Mike Boyce – Leg 2

„ Dave Daniels – Leg 5

Please respect all private and public land, stick to the marked trails and obey directions or signs on course. We are privileged to have access to such amazing riding. Look after your horses and most of all enjoy the day.

We also are using 'Track Me Live' trackers for on course safety this year. These devices will be issued to you, switched on and live when you register, and this will enable your crew to track you around the course and for ride management to track and keep tabs on people for safety purposes. It is compulsory to carry these devices and turned on whilst on course. Any lost devices will incur a fee of $330. They are smaller than a mobile phone and will fit in a pocket with a mobile phone or waist bands will also be available. I would describe them as twice the size of an old-fashioned small match box. The data they provide will enable people all over the world to watch the dots and track your progress and the event live. You should also come to pre ride vet prepared to have a mug shot with your horse for the Track Me Live web site. We are excited to trial this new technology.

Welcome and enjoy some great riding.

Melanie Scott

Course Maps and Elevations

DISTANCES AND ELEVATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE AND INDICATIVE.

FIRST LEG - 42 km

Photo

FIFTH LEG - 14 km

The Performance Edge, Naturally

• Supports growth, topline and performance

• Premium blend of vitamins, amino acids, growth factors and antioxidants

• Supports endurance and performance

• Promotes muscle integrity & definition

• Salt and electrolyte replacer

• Supports hydration and normal sweating

• Supports muscle funtion and fluid balance

• Supports performance and recovery for endurance horses

• Supports proper pH under gastric distress

• Supports protective layer in the bowel

• Contains prebiotics and live probiotic for intestinal health

• Non-medicated

• Safe for horses with gastric ulcers and hindgut

Balanced Oils for Performance

• Supports normal muscle recovery

• Supports normal lactic acid levels

• Supports maximum energy output

Photo by Sarah Sullivan Photography

Vets & Officials List

VETS AND CHIEF STEWARDS

ATTENDING TQ24

VETS

Head Vet – Lachlan Cameron, SA

2IC Head Vet – Khyle Stewart, TAS

Head Treatment Vet – Darien Feary, NSW

2IC Treatment Vet – Celine Lee, TAS

Oncourse Vet – Dan Sims, SA

LINE VETS

Chris Dowey – NSWERA

Bruno Ros – QERA

Alice Mitchell – TEERA

Narelle Cribb – VERA

Anne Barnes – WAERA

Amie Kapusniak – SA

Dave Nolan – QLD

Laura Salisbury – SA

Harry Wever – QLD

CHIEF STEWARDS

Head Chief Steward – Digger Leehane

Asst Head Chief Steward – Andrew Miles

Marylou Locke – NSWERA

Stephanie Malmborg – QERA

Allison Brown – QERA

Jil Bourton - SAERA

Trenton Huxtable – TEERA

Sandy Little - VERA

John Anderson – WAERA

Mel Scott – SA

Belinda Hopley – NSW

Tom McCormack - NSW

Sponsor List

MAJOR SUPPORTER

Government of South Australia

SILVER SPONSORS

Yankalilla Council

IRT Australia

Radincon – Specialist

Medical Imaging

Azuno Developments and Sample Group

RM Williams

BRONZE SPONSORS

Hills Farm Supplies

Eaglehawk Endurance

TROT OUT LANE SPONSORS

Renegade Hoof Boots

Tasmanian Horse Transport

Radincon – Specialist

Medical Imaging

RUG SPONSORS

Tasmanian Equine Endurance

Riders Association

Raglan Endurance

Arabian Horse

Society of Australia

Tenterfield Veterinary Clinic

Endurance NSW

Dixon Smith Equestrian

Radincon – Specialist

Medical Imaging

Queensland Endurance Riders Association

Harbison Performance

McLaughlin Family

Renegade Hoof Boots

Cameron Veterinary Services

Cherry Cummins from Chenergy Fitness

McIntyre Dental Clinic

Stirling’s Crossing Endurance Club

SA Endurance Riders Association

Sioux and Charlie Reid

Tooraweenah Endurance Club

Widgee Endurance and Trail Riders Club

Western Australian Endurance

Riders Association

SUREWiSE

BUCKLE SPONSORS

Summit Conveyancing

Meldana Arabians

Premium Blue

McLaughlin Family

Peter Horobin Saddlery

Bloomfield Rugs

Snowy Mountain Zone Committee

Equissage

Janne Harris

Animal Therapeutics

Donna Nicholas

Butler and Butler Pty Ltd

Wackett Family

Millicent Reid

Sioux and Charlie Reid

OTHER SPONSORSHIP AND SUPPORT

Australian Endurance Riders Association

Yankalilla Council

Victorian Endurance Riders Association

Radincon – Specialist

Medical Imaging

Castlebar Endurance

Alfa Equestrian

Zilco International

PK Saddles

Carbine Chemicals

Just Country

Bit Fitting Services

Liversage

Forestry SA

Garonne Park

Gutz Busta

FeedXL

Sioux and Charlie Reid

Leon Liversage Enduro Saddles

Archer Equine

Dixon Smith Equestrian

Seppeltsfield Wine

Equissage

Bendigo Bank

Harbison Performance

Biolink 4 Plants

Stance Global Pty Ltd

Kohnke’s Own Horse Supplements

Photo creditSteve Ellis

Shareym Trophy

The Shareym Memorial is a prize awarded to the owner of the first middleweight or heavyweight horse to successfully complete the Tom Quilty Gold Cup event which has the most Quilty buckles to its credit up to and including the current event.

This award was originally created by Ron and Val Males of Ralvon Arab Stud in memory of their purebred Arabian stallion, Shareym (Shafreyn x Ruheym), who successfully completed six Quilty events in 1966, 1967, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1973, and, up until recently, was the only stallion to do so.

Shareym lived on the Males’ property and was also ridden by the Males' children throughout their endurance careers.

In 2014 another purebred Arabian stallion equaled Shareym’s outstanding record.

Kalkadoon Zorro (MafUe Sultan x Autumn Leaf) bred by Karen Johanson and is owned, trained and ridden by the Krahnen family of Queensland. Zorro successfully completed seven Quilty’s - 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015. The Shareym Trophy is a bronze perpetual award.

Shareym pictured July, just before Shareym’s 17th birthday, two days after competing in an Endurance Ride.

POEM WRITTEN BY DALVEEN GREGORY FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF SHAREYM

And did you see that Arab horse, Shareym?

The big one, just as riders always prizeBay, rich dark bay, mahogany agleam,

The magic sparkle there the calm beliesBold honest horse with kindness in his eyes.

He had six Quilty buckles to his name, And major championships at shows, as well, With saddle classes added to the fame, And sons and daughters with their tales to tellThe sort of horse you’d ride on into hell!

Did you see the youngster there astride his back?

The rider’s strength could scarcely check a foalYet down the mountainside through inky black, This mighty horse no trouble to controlAnd people say that horses have no soul.

Relentless Time will beat the best at last, No matter at what speed we travel onWhether the pace is deadly dull, or fast, Comes to us all the day that life is goneAnd darkness only where a great light shone.

Unfair it seems in life’s Endurance Course,

The big horse loses this, the vital race, And it will take one giant of a horse,

To even try and fill the empty spaceHe was the one no other could replace.

PREVIOUS WINNERS OF THE SHAREYM AWARD:

2023 Follydown Gai Emerald

2022 Lauralyn Notorious

2021 Willowstar Bay-Sil

2020 event not held due to Covid

2019 Lauralyn Notorious

2018 Lauralyn Notorious

2017 Lauralyn Notorious

2016 Lauralyn Notorious

2015 Kalkadoon Zorro

2014 Kalkadoon Zorro

2013 Kalkadoon Zorro

2012 Brookleigh Ricardo, Tarrangower Crescendo

2011 Blue Bopp

2010 Kurrajong Concorde

2009 Sarisha

2008 Electra BBP Murdoch

2007 Ruby Park Eastwick

2006 Sarisha

2005 Event stopped due to rain 2004 Sarisha 2003 Flashlite 2002 Jackson Brown 2001 Sarisha 2000 Jackson Brown 1999 Joseph 1998 Jackson Brown 1997 Karumba Travellers Joy

1996 Karumba Travellers Joy 1995 Karumba Travellers Joy 1994 Karumba Travellers Joy 1993 Karumba Travellers Joy 1992 Wertaloona Lionel 1991 Wertaloona Lionel 1990 Onegin

1989 Sharahd Homer 1988 Onegin 1987 Onegin 1986 Onegin 1985 Juanita 1984 Cedar 1983 Cedar 1982 Dunwingeri St Nicholas 1981 Tequila 1980 El Teco 1979 Sharahd Sheek 1978 Sharahd Sheek

1977 Grand Marquis

1976 Grand Marquis

The Pat Slater Cup

By Sue Crockett

Pat Slater was passionate about Arabian horses, and in particular the endurance horse. She was forever in awe of their beauty and athleticism.

Australian Endurance owes a huge debt of thanks to Pat for her promotion of the endurance horse. She was instrumental in bringing Australian Endurance Riding to the attention of the uninitiated whilst she was the editor of the Australian Arabian Horse News. Pat was made a life member of AERA, before she died in March 2003.

When Pat became editor of the AHN in 1984 the magazine mainly focused on Arabians for show. Not much was said about the endurance horse, even though the sport had been in existence for two decades. Even back then there were some great horses but many were either show rejects or an assortment of partbreds. Pat

gradually introduced stories about Endurance horses and bit by bit they were accepted and deemed fit for publication!

Today endurance horses are written about and showcased constantly in the magazine and the AHSA embraces their major achievements, with superior performances by an endurance horse recognised by the Society. Nowadays it’s not unusual for photographs of endurance horses to appear on the cover of their magazine.

But the biggest breakthrough came about in 2007 when the AHSA declared multi medal winning endurance horse Bremervale Justice the “Ambassador” for the breed. Pat would be thrilled to know that the endurance horse is now completely accepted within the Society.

Pat was the editor of the AHN for eight years and in that time she also edited

two volumes of The Arabian Horse in Australia (and New Zealand). In 1992 Pat was awarded an Honorary Life Membership of the AHSA Ltd for her outstanding promotional contribution to the Arabian breed.

In her own right Pat was an outstanding horse photographer. She had a great eye for a horse and belonged to the pre-digital age when skill with a camera was more important than technology. Many of Pats' photographs are still used in today's publications, and will be for many years to come.

Pat photographed at her first Quilty in 1988. In 1994 she attended her first World Equestrian Games at The Hague in Holland. She was also in attendance at two other WEG events: Dubai in 1988 and Spain in 2002. She came with us to Spain in spite of being really unwell and took some

wonderful photographs. Her stoicism and unfailing sense of humour will be remembered by all who were there with her. She would have made one hell of an endurance rider!

The Pat Slater Trophy was born to commemorate this great lady of Endurance. The sterling silver perpetual cup was originally donated by Peter Slater and Family; Penny, Alexandra and Peter Toft; Sue and Toby Crockett; Meg Wade and Chris Gates. The Pat Slater Trophy is now sponsored by the AERA by provision of a memento trophy to the winner of the Pat Slater Cup. AERA also provides a sash to all eligible participants.

It has been awarded each year (since 2004) at the Tom Quilty Gold Cup 160 kilometre National Championship ride. The winner of the Pat Slater Cup will be selected from the first ten horses to successfully complete the course, regardless of their riding Division. Eligible horses must not receive any invasive treatment from the commencement of the Quilty until the completion of the judging of the Pat Slater Cup.

The winner of the Pat Slater Cup is to be decided by a panel of five persons appointed by the AERA Inc. The appointed judges must have an extensive knowledge of the sport. A member of the panel may have been a current participant, provided the horse is not eligible for consideration for this award and there is no perceived conflict of interest.

Horses will be required to pass a lameness examination in-hand by the Best Conditioned Veterinary panel prior to further participation in the Pat Slater Cup Judging. Horses that are judged unsound will be excused.

The horses are scored on the following criteria: freedom of movement, soundness and impulsion, presence and appearance, and overall presentation.

The horses will be required to individually trot up in hand, unsaddled. The horses will then be judged in conjunction with the Best Conditioned workouts. Emphasis will be placed on impulsion and the attitude of the horse. Little or no consideration will be taken for overall weight carried and time taken in comparison with the winner's time.

PREVIOUS WINNERS OF THE PAT SLATER CUP:

2004 (South Australia) - Ningadoo Taban (ridden by Claudia Reid, New South Wales)

2005 (Tasmania) - not awarded (event stopped due to rain)

2006 (Queensland) - Tora Blar-Zay, (ridden by Abdullah Khamis Ali Saeed, United Arab Emirates)

2007 (Western Australia) - Ruby Park Eastwick (ridden by Ady McIntosh, Western Australia)

2008 (Queensland) - China Doll (ridden by Meg Wade, Victoria)

2009 (Victoria) - Kurrajong Concorde (ridden by Kristie Taprell, Victoria)

2010 (New South Wales) - Kurrajong Concorde (ridden by Kristie Taprell, Victoria)

2011 (South Australia) - Brookleigh Ricardo (ridden by Matthew Sample, Queensland)

2012 (Tasmania) - Castlebar Gulfstream (ridden by Kristie Taprell, Victoria)

2013 (Queensland) - Brookleigh Excalibur (ridden by Brook Sample, Queensland)

2014 (Western Australia) - Kalkadoon Zorro (ridden by Simone Krahnen, Queensland)

2015 (New South Wales) - La Battista Shadow Fax (ridden by Erin Krahnen, Queensland)

2016 (Victoria) – Chelleason Rembrandt (ridden by Kelsey Irvine, Queensland)

2017 (South Australia) – Tierview Salama (ridden by Brooke Brown-Cordell, Tasmania) and Chelleason Rembrandt (ridden by Kaylea Maher, Queensland)

2018 (Tasmania) - Beaudacious te (ridden by Xanthe Webb, New South Wales) and Cedar Ridge Lyric (ridden by Jess Langridge, Queensland)

2019 (Queensland) – No Regret Shocking (ridden by Jamie Green, Queensland)

2020 no event due to COVID-19

2021 (Western Australia) – Marbling Galazy (ridden by Siobhan Darlow, South Australia)

2022 (New South Wales) – Castlebar Bazaar (ridden by Tahlia Franke, New South Wales)

2023 (Queensland) – Bonnybrooke Samarai (ridden by Mary Duncan, Queensland)

NEWBRIDGE TROPHY

Originally donated by Dick and Selma Best, the Newbridge trophy is a very large bronze horse statue that was made by Sheila Stump. The trophy is currently part of the Tom Quilty Gold Cup Exhibition at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach, Queensland.

The trophy was first presented at one of the early Quilty events. "Newbridge" is the name of the stud owned in partnership with the Bests and Sheila Stump and is awarded to the first registered Arabian or Derivative to successfully complete the Quilty.

Each winner has a plaque put onto the trophy and the winner of this award is given a photograph of the trophy to keep.

Previous winners:

1966 Shalawi (Gabriel Stetcher)

1967 Stormy (Erica Williams)

1968 Steelo (Susan Scantlebury)

1969 Our Share (Lorraine Robins)

1970 Rocky Bar Stormy (Erica Williams)

1971 Psyche (Ron Males)

1972 Ralvon Shafranna (Gil Stevenson)

1973 Sharahd Shazan (Elizabeth Benedict)

1974 Eurunderee Tamerlane (Col Adams)

1975 Ralvon Shafranna (RM Williams)

1976 Sharahd Sheek (Bob Sample)

1977 El Teco (Larry Ross)

1978 Grey Atom (Lyn Dillon)

1979 Rockybar Semali (Jane Paull)

1980 El Teco (Larry Ross)

1981 Ooonoonbah Leo (Gordon Hobday)

1982 Dunwingeri St Nicholas (David Marshall)

1983 Chip Chase Sadaqa (Peter Cole)

1984 Arabian Park Amierr (Alan Mackinder)

1985 Glenallan Soloman (Jenny Oliver)

1986 Glenallan Soloman (Jenny Oliver)

1987 Glenallan Soloman (Jenny Oliver)

1988 Sharahd Cassandra (Jim Farr)

1989 Sharahd Cassandra (Jim Farr)

1990 Sharahd Melodie (Brook Sample)

1991 Tantawanglo Hamal Zahab (Andrew Bailey)

1992 Radi (Adam Garvin)

1993 Sharahd Caprice (Bob Sample)

1994 Sarchedon (Chris Malone)

1995 Sharahd Cavalier (Brook Sample)

1996 Sharahd Caprice (Brook Sample)

1997 Peppersfield Nabucco (Terry Wood)

1998 Daycara Hazim (Dale Fitz-Gerald)

1999 Peppersfield Nabucco (Terry Wood)

2000 Crystal Flyer (Meg Wade)

2001 Kelkette Park Flyer (Meg Wade)

2002 Pinnacle Park Mishka (Brook Sample)

2003 Castlebar Macleod (Meg Wade)

2004 Reeflex (Joyce Corbett) & Curringa Domino (Michael Taylor)

2005 Event stopped due to rain

2006 Tora Blar Zay (Abdullah Kharmis Ali Saeed)

2007 Arovo Mini Harvest (Christoph Schork)

2008 Hirstglen Fargo (Donna Weismann)

2009 Kurrajong Concorde (Kristie Taprell)

2010 Takoi Jackie Chan (Jeff Adams)

2011 Kurrajong Concorde (Kristie Taprell)

2012 Lockleigh Park Wildfire (Jacopo Di Matteo)

2013 Kasbah Kid (Stephen Gray)

2014 Tarrangower Crecendo (Jessica Langridge)

2015 Cap Braveheart (Ben Hudson)

2016 Lauralyn Notorious (Debbie Grull)

2017 Lauralyn Notorious (Debbie Grull)

2018 Beer Street Bewitched (Jaz Hutchins)

2019 Matta Mia Dimari (Kaylea Maher)

2020 no event due to COVID

2021 Minton East Chaucer (Jessica Aistrope) Willowstar Bay-Sil (Stella Harbison)

2022 Castlebar Roulette (Kristie Taprell) Castlebar Bazaar (Tahlia Franke)

2023 Tonki Dee Boo Novak (Ashley Cole)

It is now 8 years since our son Stirling passed. In 2019, the Stirling Shields Memorial Trophy for the Junior Best Condition Horse was first awarded at Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex in Queensland. The trophy was created in memory of Stirling, to recognise the commitment and success of our junior riders in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup and, the fact that they are the future of endurance riding.

It was always Stirling’s aim to achieve best condition horse at the completion of each ride, as he considered that was the highest accolade for a rider and their horse. Stirling loved his horse Indy and, there was a special bond between them, as only horse riders can know and experience. He was grateful always to Indy for carrying him throughout the journey and, he in turn, felt an obligation to his horse to look after him equally. Stirling had planned to ride Indy at the Stirling’s Crossing Classic in 2016 to qualify for the next Queensland Tom Quilty, which Stirling had predicted would be held at Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex. He was so amazed at the name of this property and that the spelling was the same as his name. Unfortunately, Stirling never made it to that ride. Indy however, now 20 years old, successfully completed the Tom Quilty 2023 ride, again held at Stirling’s Crossing, ridden by New Zealander Petria Haigh.

Stirling Shields Memorial Trophy

by Celeste Shields

Each year since the trophy has been awarded it has increased in significance to us and we hope to the junior riders who are competing at each Tom Quilty Gold Cup ride.

David and I are so grateful for the time we shared together with Stirling, training and competing for endurance and the daily care and needs of our horses. These experiences helped our son grow into the young man we were so proud of.

I never thought I would ride again after the loss of our son; it was 2 years after this tragedy I rode again. It was never my intention to compete in any 160 klms rides. My gratitude to Robyn Pembroke for getting me back in the saddle on her horse Mt Eerwah Romomous; that enabled me to compete and complete in the QLD State Championships in 2018. After this ride I was invited again by Robyn to continue training with her team.

On the 5th May 2019 I competed and completed another 160klms ride and I asked Romonous if he would carry me to the TQ 2019. This had been Stirlings goal all along, not mine. Romonous and I completed the TQ however, Rommie vetted out lame after 160klms. I have always felt I asked too much of Rommie with two back-to-back 160’s. Rommie helped me to heal in more ways than I can share. Thank you.

Quilty buckle in honour of Stirling. I will always and forever miss the best riding partner I could ever have and my wonderful mate. We shared the love and joy of our equines, and I will always be grateful for the time we spent together in the saddle, Stirling chatting the entire time about computers, hacking, coding and all electrical systems … not that I understood any of it.

We would like to thank all the volunteers who give endless hours and their skills and patience to make rides happen, especially on the scale of a Tom Quilty event. Without everyone who gives tirelessly and without reservation, we could not enjoy this incredible passion.

Thank you all.

AERA Awards

The Tom Quilty Gold Cup, held in a different state each year, provides the opportunity for riders and horses, at their peak of fitness, to compete on the national stage, for the opportunity of achieving completion and being presented with a Tom Quilty Buckle, or for one the opportunity to take home the cup.

Each year, Australian Endurance Riders Association (AERA) hosts the AERA Awards night on the Thursday of Quilty week, in conjunction with the TQ Committee. This is to acknowledge the achievements of horses and riders in the previous year. The Awards are presented to Pointscore winners of each division (horse and rider) and also the Distance Awards for each division.

This is also an opportunity to celebrate individual achievements for horses and riders who have reached a particular distance and some of these distances are quite remarkable. This year we have 10 horses being awarded for achievement of 3000kms; 8 horserider teams receiving Decade Team

Awards; 4 riders achieving 10,000 kms, 3 achieving 15,000 kms, 2 achieving 20,000 kms and one very special lady who has clocked up a total for 35,000 kms and still going – Jennifer Gilbertson.

AERA provides these awards and is proud of the commitment shown by riders to achieve these distances. The data of Quilty achievements is long and we may need to consider reducing what is published each year in this book, but always a difficult discussion about where such a reduction might occur.

AERA would like to acknowledge the work done by the AERA Registrar, Jo Bailey, in checking and occasionally correcting historical data. We also acknowledge the effort of Kerry Fowler-Smith who has for many years coordinated our supply of awards.

The AERA Management Committee members who will be in South Australia for TQ24 look forward to meeting some of you at the AERA Awards or at the AERA Q&A session, scheduled for the morning of Quilty Week.

COOROORA BOLD DANCER –

Shannon Decker – VIC

EBONY’S

Linda Dix – WA

HALO RHAPSODY IN BLUE

Saasha Grogan - QLD

KYNNUM PARK MR EPONA

Debra McQueen - NSW

LONGRUN DRIFTER

Gavin Bartlett - QLD

MEEA – Dick Collyer - QLD

SILVER WINGS

Dianne Walsh - TAS

Kasey Thomas - VIC

SUNDALE

Natasha Ellery - WA

WEST COAST

Jodie Luck - SA

35,000km

Jennifer Gilberston – NSW

20,000km

Kim Calway – SA

Angela Hawks - TAS

15,000km

Saasha Grogan - QLD

Wendy Riha - VIC

Kenneth Moir - QLD

10,000km

Robin Gossip - NSW

Jodie Luck – SA

Kasey Thomas – VIC

Denise Trollope - NSW

2024 DECADE TEAMS

ISSUED AT TOM QUILTY

Bullio Gebreselassie / Wendy Riha

VIC – 10yrs = 2014 - 2024

Churinga Babooshka / Denise Trollope

NSW – 13yrs = 1987 - 1999

Ebony’s Savannah Rose / Linda Dix

WA – 11yrs = 2014 – 2024

Razorback Silver Wings / Dianne Walsh

TAS – 11yrs = 2010 - 2021

Tazsh Kamil Lea / Jamie Linthorne

WA – 13yrs = 1998 - 2011

Tom-May Mel-Bar Prince / Fiona Shearman

SA – 10yrs = 2010 - 2023

Webbs Creek Cattle Baron / Jennifer Gilbertson

NSW – 10yrs = 2013 - 2024

Yaldon Hajeel / Janice Skinner

WA – 10yrs = 2004 – 2015

Distance

1. Beer Street Coven Moon (TAS) 924

2. Beer Street Dezhda (TAS) 920

3. Miss Dior Mi (VIC) 820

4. Rumble Hill Shadow Maker (WA) 804

5. Sweet Honesty Molleeh (QLD) 783

6 Rhythm Dancer (QLD) 743

7. Performance Park La Diva (VIC) 740

7. Piper V.E.S. (SA) 740

8. Beer Street Aslan T B (TAS) 644

8. Jabeila Leif (WA) 644

9. Sunkissed Thunder Shakaan (WA) 642

10. Blake’s Heaven Summer Wind (NSW) 640

10. Woodybrook Houdini (WA) 640

LIGHTWEIGHT HORSE Points

1. Raymar Amira (NSW)

2. Tora Mariah (WA)

3. Shanelli-Park Phoenix (QLD)

3. Woodsong Princess Barbie (TAS)

4.

5.

6. Fortaleza Abbe Rose (NSW)

7. Steel Poppy Midnight Rum (SA)

8 Archerville Cimarron (TAS)

9.

1. Woodsong Princess Barbie (TAS) 1164

2. Veloce Encore (VIC) 990

3. Shanelli-Park Phoenix (QLD) 900

4. Raymar Amira (NSW) 865

5. Box Hill Nitro (QLD) 806

6. Tora Mariah (WA) 802

7. Blake’s Heaven Adventuress (NSW) 780

8. Khalua Bey (NSW)

JUNIOR HORSE

Mr Meldivian (TAS)

Anastazia VA (QLD)

Shazaam (QLD)

Castlebar Icon (NSW) 644

Blake’s Heaven Annabelle (NSW)

Macrocarpa Kaos (NSW) 484 9. Talunga Park Azraff (SA) 484 9. Teddy (QLD) 484

HEAVYWEIGHT RIDER

Peter Field (QLD)

7. Duncan Woodhead (QLD)

8. Noni Seagrim (NSW)

9. Rod Strahan (QLD)

Distance

1. Corey Nix (NSW) 1264

2. Shelley Jones (NSW) 1168

3. Ian Dreghorn (NSW) 809

4. Tash Ellery (WA) 800

5. Robert Catlin (NSW) 665

6. Stuart Lymbery (NSW) 645

7. Noni Seagrim (NSW) 640

8. James Sheahan (QLD) 600

9. Mark Carson (VIC)

10. Rod Strahan (QLD)

MIDDLEWEIGHT RIDER

1.

2.

3. Jodie Luck (SA)

4. Noel Lockhart (TAS)

5. Kaye Mitchell (TAS)

6. Fiona Fenech (QLD)

7. Matthew Sample (QLD)

8. Catherine Bailey (NSW) 64

9. Ken Moir (QLD)

10. Nigel Irvine (WA)

Distance

1. Saasha Grogran (QLD) 1804

2. Kaye Mitchell (TAS) 1244

3. Ken Moir (QLD) 1210

4. Deb Wyllie (TAS) 1084

5. Simon Thomas (VIC) 1080

6. Christiaan Perold (NSW) 1065

7. Noel Lockhart (TAS) 1044

8. Fiona Fenech (QLD) 1023

9. Susan Woodward (NSW) 1014

10. Hannah Cossor (NSW) 1005

10. Alan Lindsay (NSW)

Tracy-Lee Cossor (NSW) 1150

Nicole Porter (VIC) 1140

Kirsty Neilley (TAS) 1084

Sarah McLaughlin (VIC)

JUNIOR RIDER

Eadie McWilliam (QLD)

Emma Ireland (NSW)

8. Annalise Drever-Borchardt (SA)

Mia Oliver (QLD) 57.5

Sanjay Nix (NSW) 56.5

Distance

1. Charlotte Williamson (QLD) 1925

2. Neeve Whittaker (QLD) 1742

3. Indi Else (QLD) 1390

4. Dylan Stevens (TAS) 1244

5. Eadie McWilliam (QLD) 1202

6. Indra Hofstee (QLD) 1118

7. Mia Oliver (QLD) 1066

8. Taylor Grogan (QLD) 1047

9. Bella Brassington (QLD) 998

10. Emma Forbes (QLD) 906

ONE HORSE / ONE RIDER

Heavyweight

1. Natasha Ellery / Sundale Bellagio (WA) 800

2. Ian Dreghorn / Ausden Nile Prins (NSW) 729

3. James Sheahan / Minton East Chaucer (NSW) 600

4. Mark Carson / Mr Brown (VIC) 585

5. Corey Nix / Macrocarpa Red Bull (NSW) 582

6. Shelley Jones / Shellal Blood Moon (NSW) 564

7. Louise Mackey / Marlou Park Billy’s Alibi (VIC) 545

8. Peter Field / Rkayn Xuberant (QLD) 540

9. Tahnaya Mercieca / Henley Farm Fursan (NSW) 536

10. Jo Davis / Jamal Desert Mist (NSW) 525

Middleweight

1. Jack Robinson / Beer Street Coven Moon (TAS) 924

2. Kaye Mitchell / Beer Street Dezhda (TAS) 920

3. Nigel Irvine / Rumble Hill Shadow Maker (WA) 804

4. Fiona Fenech / Sweet Honest Molleeh (QLD) 783

5. Keiran Rowley / Rhythm Dancer (QLD) 743

6. Tanya Beacham / Performance Park La Diva (VIC) 740

6. Jillian Bourton / Piper V.E.S. (SA) 740

6. Marty Bryson / Miss Dior Mi (VIC) 740

7. Wendy Leach / Jabeila Leif (WA) 644

7. Deborah Wyllie / Beer Street Aslan T B (TAS) 644

8. Shirley O’Donoghue / Sunkissed Thunder Shakaan (WA) 642

9. Kirsten Melis / Woodybrook Houdini (WA) 640

10. Kenneth Moir / Soliloquy (QLD) 628

Lightweight

1. Kirsty Neilley / Woodsong Princess Barbie (TAS) 924

2. Heather Stuchbree / Veloce Encore (VIC) 910

3. Robin Gossip / Raymar Amira (NSW) 865

4. Donna McKee / Tora Mariah (WA) 802

5. Fia Hasko-Stewart / Blake’s Heaven Adventuress (NSW) 780

6. Avril Cummins / Khalua Bey (NSW) 760

7. Kirstie Lockhart / Archerville Cimarron (TAS) 724

8. Cheryl Bullock / Steel Poppy Midnight Rum (SA) 722

9. Julie Hooper / Currowan Kav (NSW) 660

10. Michelle Chapman / Shanelli-Park Phoenix (QLD) 600

Junior

1. Taylor Grogan / Anastazia VA 865

2. Tayla Hunt / Castlebar Icon (NSW) 644

3. Charlotte Williamson / De-Sharvarll El Dakar (QLD) 643

4. Piper Braid / Orabanda Dancing Jessica (TAS) 520

5. Tegan Ashby / Blake’s Heaven Annabelle (NSW) 500

6. Annalise Drever-Borchardt / Talunga Park Azraff (SA) 484

6. Indi Else / Shazaam (QLD) 484

6. Sanjay Nix / Macrocarpa Kaos (NSW) 484

7. Dylan Stevens / Foley-Jones JJ (TAS) 480

7. Neeve Whittaker / Drumlin History (QLD) 480

8. Charlotte Williamson / Splendacrest Clara (QLD) 462

9. Eadie McWilliam / Limited Edition te (QLD) 460

10. Indra Hofstee / Royal Rose Malibu (QLD) 456

Congratulations to Endurance

NSW legend & Life Member

Jennifer Gilbertson who has clocked up 35,080km in open endurance rides: plus Jennifer has completed six out of six overseas rides, and 575km in other rides here.

Since Jennifer’s first endurance ride in 1992 on the infamous Gilbertson Blaxland (aka “Blackie”) she has since completed 345 rides. Jennifer is a living legend in endurance in NSW not just for her huge tally of kilometres, and international success in the sport, but also for her generosity.

To date her love of endurance has taken her over the harsh South African veldt, epic Middle Eastern sand dune fields, Native American Indian trails, manicured European turf and outback Australian bulldust. She has represented Australia at four World Championships with team medal success as well as a tri-nations team Gold in South Africa, and she has also secured a Tevis Buckle.

Over the years Jennifer, and her husband Graeme, have run the Rosemont training rides and St Albans Rides as well as The St Albans Fireys

Jennifer Gilbertson

Ride. They were leading lights on the Shahzada Committee for a number of years. They have been, and Jennifer is still, very generous with sponsoring numerous endurance events.

Jennifer has always been very willing to share her knowledge, and many newcomers to endurance have benefited from her mentorship and generosity, including the many riders who have ridden or been gifted one of

OVERSEAS RIDES

her horses. Jennifer is also a wonderful role model to younger riders.

Jennifer has entered the upcoming Shahzada with All Aglow at Webbs Creek. It is one of her favourite rides. She has at least 8 buckles and won the 400km ride (and Best Conditioned) in 1999 on Ralvon Reflex in 28:31, and also placed twice at least three times on the wonderful “Blackie”. What an inspiration!

1998 17th Place WEG-E Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba, UAE

QA Deja Vue

2005 43rd Place Dubai CH-M-E Bramal Jazzman

2006 55th Place WEG-E Aachen, Germany Harriet

2008 3rd Place 120km New Zealand Pradaa

2009 Tri-Nationals Team Gold Medal Winners 207km Fauresmith South Africa

Australian Team Member with Gayle Holmes, Mette Sutton, Jil Bourton, Tami Parnell and Clare Fleming

2011 54th Place Tevis Cup, 160km, USA Home Run Derby PGA

2025 Tom Quilty

Just a hop and skip from the home port of the Spirit of Tasmania, the farming area of Sassafras is the location of the 2025 Quilty. Tasmanian endurance riders are very familiar with the ride base, but for those travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania it is literally just a 15-20 minute drive from where you disembark.

Pat Lamprey, a life member of TEERA, has generously hosted many endurance rides in her paddock and has now extended her hospitality to the TQ25. While located in rolling farmland, the ride base provides easy access to the nearby towns of Latrobe and Devonport. There you will find feed suppliers and multiple saddleries to meet your horses’ needs, and shopping centres, restaurants and bars to meet the needs of riders and their support teams.

Easy to get to, but what else can you look forward to? For anyone who has ridden some of the many Sassafras rides over the last 30 years, you might be surprised. The hard-working committee, led by Deb Wyllie, have gone off road and unearthed new tracks that require riders to make decisions and adjustments to meet the challenges of the varied terrain.

Whilst challenging, the initial legs allow for safe travel during the dark. The high points midway through leg 3 will provide views towards Bass Strait and the Rubicon Estuary missed during the darkness of Leg 1. Those taking it easy and reaching the higher points of Leg 2 at dawn, will enjoy the views towards the Western Tiers, the farming foothills of the Central Plateau and the autumnal colours of the apple trees as they ride through a commercial orchard before passing through the underpass on the Bass Highway to return to the ride base.

Variety continues in legs 4 and 5: short sections of fine gravel road, plantation tracks and sandy tracks through native bush.

Sometimes, we travel interstate to Quilties only to find ourselves on roads that we could just as easily explored in our cars. Not this one. This is a Quilty track that will reward horses that are well prepared and riders who make decisions consistent with both their own and their horse’s experience and ability. A ride reflecting the true spirit of the Tom Quilty!

Photo creditRoger Nichols

Photo credit

Roger Nichols

21 Ron Males.

MULTIPLE QUILTY BUCKLE HOLDERS

RIDERS

20 Keryn Mahoney, Kristie Taprell, Terry Wood.

19 Sue Parsons.

17 Allan Caslick.

16 Gayle Holmes

15 Bob Sample, Brook Sample.

14 Olga Bartlett, Corey Nix, Betty Serpell.

13 June Petersen, Erica Williams.

12 Luke Annetts, Jillian Bourton, Alan Lindsay, Alan Mackinder.

11 Sally Cowan, Jennifer Gilbertson, Margaret Wade.

10 Clare Fleming, Debbie Grull, Jennifer Johansen (Annetts), Ron Haigh, Jo Hamilton-Branigan, Allix Jones, Anne Jones, Barbara Macdonald Timms, Sue May, Karen Rhodes, Trish Smith.

9 Angela Hawks, Patsie (Manning) Sinfield, Sam Timms, Stephen Gray, Talea Hasko-Stewart, Nicola Robinson.

8 Gavin Bartlett, Michelle Chapman, Claude Filleul, Stella Harbison, Simone Krahnen, Kaylea Maher, Sarah McLaughlin, Lesley Nancarrow, Amanda Rayner, Rowena Robinson, Ivan Sampson, Melanie Scott, Alwyn Torenbeek.

7 Jessica Aistrope, Andrew Bailey, Louise Barnes (Lewis), Sonia Bonham, Jack Boswell, Paul Brown, Kim Calway, Chris Cheney, Narelle Childs, Joyce Corbett, Matthew Gadsby, Paul Grieves, Scott Hill, Ann Hollins, Jamie Green, Paul Grieves, Colleen Krahnen, Stuart Lymbery, Louise McCormack, Kaylea Maher, Linda Meredith, Frank Muddyman, Derryn Nix, Sonya Ruprecht, Ros Ryan, Susan Sutcliffe, Denise Trollope, Louise Turner-Pratt.

6 Col Adams, Roy Barsby, Carmen Batterham, Steve Blackhurst, Margaret Boland, Ian Brown, Judith Burton, Angie Clark, Phil Coleman, Shannon Decker, Brad Dillon, Jo-Anne Francis, Tahlia Franke, Saasha Grogan, Naomi McGaffin, Kathy Maffett, Rebecca Miller, Ken Moir, Lyn Nicolle, Harry O’Brien, Danielle O’Loughlin, Gillian Petersohn, Kate Pilley, Richard Pollard, Akhmed Pshunov, Allan Renner, Ann Richards, Wendy Riha, Anne Rouse, Sonya Ruprecht, Ros Ryan, Jenny Sandford, Sasha Savage, Jody Smith, Bill Standfield, Jenny Standford, Louise Stevens, Denis Sugars, Mette Sutton, Donna Tidswell, Julie White, Margaret Winn, Julie Woods.

5 Tamara Atkinson, Les Bailey, Anne Barlow, Marty Bryson, Laura Cheney, Peter Cole, Ian Curtis, Jane Davidson, , Tania Drever, Maureen Feltham, Gail Fisher, Caroline Fitzgerald, Gordon Flaherty, Chris Forrester, Wayne Francis, , Mark Freeman, Julia Gauci, Stuart Hitchcock, Ken Hobday, Gay Holland, Anita Hutchins, Kelsey Irvine, Dianne Kajar, Gay Kerr, Trevor Knight, Connor Krahnen, Erin Krahnen, Amily Le (Dawe), Helen Lindsay, Melissa Longhurst, Deanna Loomes, Jodie Luck, Chris Mahoney, Carol Major, Malcolm Matters, Kaye Mitchell, Shimpei Miyamoto, Carly Moore, Jenny Oliver, Martin Parker, Sarah Parker, Tami Parnell, Daphne Phillips, Joyce Pilkington, Richard Pollard, Amanda Powell, Cathy Preston, Norbert Radny, Sue Reed, Claudia Reid, Larry Ross, Sonya Ryan, Terry Ryan, Jodie Salinas, Matthew Sample, Noni Seagrim, Sorsha Stuart-Rokvic, Tegan Symington, Janelle Taylor, Kasey Thomas, Gina Thompson, Penny Toft, Peter Toft, Deanna Trevena, Brooke Warner, Sue Warren, Caroline Windle.

4 David Anderson Jnr, Derek Armitage, Tanya Beacham, Brenda Blucher, Gaire Blunt, Katrina Bodewes, Rachel Bohm, , Peter Bonham, Wendy Bootle, Gerard Bou, Brooke Brown-Cordell, Peter Brown, Raewyn Carter, Shirley Clark, Graysen Clarke, Tracey-Lee Cossor, Roy Counsell, Sharee Court, Ian Curtis, Jessyca Dakin, Sallyann Duke, Jim Farr, Karen Fields, Maurice Gray, Greg Garred, Mindy Gadsby, Vanessa Gaudard, Martin Gregson, Geoff Grummitt, Mark Haigh, Marg Hall, Bernard Harris, Sandra Hatton, Sheryl Herbert, Shannon Hill, Sandra Himsley, Fred Holland, Sally Holmes, Ben Hudson, Grace Huxtable, Shelly Ison, Karen Johansen, Mark Johnson, Searle Johnston, Carla Jones, Wendy Jones, Jack Joynson, Brian Keep, Amanda Kettlewell, Bernice King, Matthew Krahnen, Len Law, Andrea Laws-King, Karen Lee, Marion Lengronne, Paul Lengronne, Doug Lockhart, Noel Lockhart, Anne Lymbery, Louise Mackey, David Marshall, Les Maclean, Chris McCall, Ady McIntosh, Jane McLaughlin, Tahnaya Mercieca, Elizabeth Moir, Ray Morley, Elsie Newsome, Mark Nimon, Selwyn Nix, Christopher Noonan, Mike O’Loughlin, Shannon Parker, Angelina Patterson, Jodie Patterson, Nicole Porter, Bob Punicki, Jane Radny, Beverley Raynor-Mason, Anton Reid, Des Roots, Janet Rose, Marg Rose, Rose Ross, Leigh Ann Sample, Anne Simmons, Simon Slemint, Dennis Smith, Sabrina Stephens, Felicity Stevenson, Simon Thomas, Rebecca Stoneman, Cheryl Strachan, Alexandra Toft, Marianne Van der Ham, Patricia Waddell, Xanthe Webb, Della Weier, RM Williams.

Sarisha

MULTIPLE QUILTY BUCKLE HOLDERS HORSES

10 Karumba Travellers Joy, Lauralyn Notorious.

9 Beaucheval Akhiran, Jackson Brown, Sterling Nakeeta.

8 Wertaloona Lionel.

7 Joseph, Kalkadoon Zorro, Middleton’s Roustabout.

6 Aqaba Signette, Chip Chase Knight, Edenfels Pepperina, Faraway Verdict, Grand Marquis, Juanita, Kalkadoon Viva, Onegin, Rainbows Reach Scout, Ralvon Grace, Rowallan Rufous, Sahala Astronomer, Shareym, Willowstar Bay-Sil.

5 Abrock Gemma, Aloha Blue Opal, Andarra Shareef, Blake’s Heaven Bombora, Blue, Blue Bopp, Brandy, Bremervale Justice, Castlebar Belair, Cedar (aka Mr. Handsome), Cedar Ridge Rob Roy, Desert Duelers Con, Eelah Cindy, Electra BBP Murdoch, El Teco, Jezabelle Sweet Dreams, Karakatana Aluf, Karella Buckshot, Karumba Cassidy, Kevisan Park Zamira, Kim Dande Tara, Peppersfield Nabucco, Ralvon Aeneas, Razorback Blue Rhapsody, Richard, Shadow, Sharahd Caprice, Sharahd Homer, Sharahd Shazahn, Sharahd Sheek, Silver Crystal, Tallyho, Tarrangower Crescendo, Tequila, Tonki Dee Boo Pricilla, Torremolinos.

4 Aladdin, Allamir Silver Domanic, Aloha Typic, Ardai, Blake’s Heaven Summer Wind, Bremervale Promise, Brookleigh Bailey, Brookleigh Excalibur, Brookleigh Ricardo, Burren-dah Narla, Calico Jarkaman, Follydown Gai Emerals, Churinga Babooshka, Coolahlee Park Shasta, Dunbar Mahadik, Flashlite, Garonne Park Walker, Grassmere Silver Rae, Hillbrae LC, Just Shakira, Kargre Naadan, Kurumba Nazrani, Kasbah Kid, Kharossan Rimini, Kholonial Amigo, Kildara Sharina, Kurrajong Concorde, Laurjil Osca, Lentara Park Jobe, Lindall Alabaska, Longrun Drifter, Lord Arulis, Macrocarpa Red Bull, Magnum, Meea, Qmriya Raheema, Ra Silver Dancer, Ralvon Shafranna, Ralvon Splendour, Ralvon Sunflower, Sasam, Sharahd Melodie, Shellal Cattle King Flyte, Splendacrest Perfection, Splendacrest Quidam, Steelo, (Rockybar) Stormy, Tallawarra Jazardis, Tyto Ivan, Vanay Park Ambassador, Waitara Red Ned, Yahweh-Salih Sir Ibn Gelibene, Yaldon Gwai Sadiiq.

3 Aboo, Aden, Allandell Pirate, Alnotarj Statistic, Aloha Desert Fire, Aloha Messiah, Aloha Vikara, Aloha Zulm, Arasarta Narhalinian, Arsley House Eryldene, Ausden Silver Sparkle, Bandana, Beaudacious te, Beer Street Bluewitch, Bidgee, Bindo (aka Burremah Djeribindo), Blake’s Heaven Carousel, Blake’s Heaven Summer Reign, Blue Bronco, Box Hill Jackpot, Box

Hill Pegasus, Box Hill Ralph, Bramall Jazzmin, Bridle Track Bogart, Bookleigh Louise, Brookleigh Maestro, Buralga Angelikh, Burren-dah Gladiator, Cabna, Cairo, Camalot Ambassador, Cameo Mazquerade, Castlebar Icon, Cawarral Falcon, Celebration, Charabal Amarita, Cherox Tadarraja, Chifty, Chingford Just Dreaming, Churinga Goldfire, Churinga Taboo, Cooroora Allyjah, Cooroora Bold Dancer, Craig Darroch Rhaedar, Creswick Magdaleenah, Cyclone, Dalgangle, Deakin Blue, Deltry’s Boy, Dunwingeri St Nicholas, Edenfels Pegasus, Eminem Missella, Farashah, Faraway Pilbara, Faraway Reckless, Forest Inn Kateefa, Freelance Gaytu Boysy, Gilgalad, Golden Thunder, Glenallan Sheida, Glenallan Solomon, Golden Thunder, Granite, Guardsman, Halo Kazaam, Harmere Burkhan, Hirstglen Maybe, Homeleigh Mountain Kosmo, Honey Bee, Houdini, Inman Park Nevation, Innesview Desert Mhasa, Jack (Tas), Jael, Jai, Jasmine Minstrel, Junior, Kahshah, Kalkadoon Lucifer, Karma, Karumba Dilemma, Karumba Nariel, Karumba Quixote, Kelkette Park Flyte, Kelkette Park Fyre, Kelly, Kholonial Bartholomew, Kholonial Boadecia, Kholonial Farrington, Kintamani Charisma, Kintamani Fosta, Koonawarra Kavaier, Kurrajong Shadad, Larabi Rummanni, Lara’s Song, Leedale Jadea, Legacy of Lachlan, Lilla, Lobo Magic, Love in the Mist, Lyndus Lad, Magnum (aka Just Magnum), Maizie, Major Luke, Maringo, Matta Mia Dayimi, Meea, Merrinvale Voss, Min The Third, Moon Boy, Morunda Just Sharii, Mt Eerwah Anastazia, Murrawonda Jatahn, Musical Gully Tenor, Numkimbil, Oasis Desert Song, Oso Enigma, Peri, Phoenix Park Epona, Porcelain Doll, Prince Aussie, Psyche, Pyrenees Impala, Rah Fire, Rainbows Reach Dark N Stormy, Rajah, Rhythm Dancer, (Rockybar) Granite, Rivergum Windchime, Rockybar Mission, Rockybar Semali, Roxborough Eclipse, Rowallan Aspin, Roxborough Nato, Roxy, Rusty Miss, Santarabia Mazra, Sarchedon, Sarina Rosetta, Shah-Vale Shamal, Shaiyana, Shannonwood Ezar, Shannonwood Sub, Sharahd Brown Mystery, Sharahd Capri, Sharahd Cassandra, Sharahd Friday, Shareef, Shayperil Golden Lady, Shellal Blue, Shiekie, Silver Ibn Zarak, Spade, Speedo, St Albans Sharif, Stanpark Ginnis, Strauss, Syx Vee Country, Tallawarra Chance, Tallawarra Jazardis, Tantawanglo Hamal Zahab, Tarkhim Shar Bastille, Tarrandene Tessa, Tazsh Kamil Lea, Tequila Sunrise, Tommie, Tora Gem, Tristram Asham-Leila, Tuldar the Magician, Tuldar Tully, Valinor Park Armistice, Veloce Liberty, Warr of the Roses, Warren Park OB One, Warrondi Eden, Warrondi Marissa, Wave, Wenway Shakari, Willabee Park Ackwell, Willow, Windaroo Devina Glamour, Windella Badi’a, Yagoona Ben Buckenara.

20 TOM QUILTY BUCKLES

Kristie Taprell

In 1996 I rode my first Tom Quilty on Kelkette Park Debutante with a life goal of achieving 20 buckles. 27 years later, 23 Quiltys and 20 buckles, I’m gearing up for my 24th Quilty with a new goal insight - 25 buckles!

Endurance riding has always been a family sport for me. Family holidays were spent with my sister Naomi, Mum, Debbie, and Dad Ian, at whichever location the Quilty was that year. I was blessed to have this time with my family and proud of everyone’s achievements. While mum and dad no longer ride, Naomi and myself have continued riding, breeding, training and competing in Quiltys every year.

In 2023, I was able to reach my goal of 20 buckles and 2000 miles at Stirling’s Crossing, QLD. This was a massive accomplishment, to have achieved a goal I set when I was 12 and I was honoured to have been able to do this on a mare I love - Castlebar Mstake.

I have always been passionate about the Tom Quilty and while my goal is always for a successful completion, I

have been blessed to be able to ride amazingly competitive horses and achieve the win on 5 occasions. Two very special mares I have been able to do this with are Castlebar Belair (2018), and Kurrajong Concorde (2011). In 2022, I crossed the line in first place riding Castlebar Roulette with Tahlia Franke on Castlebar Bazaar. In 2003, I was honoured to cross the line on Rowellan Miss Lily with Meg Wade on Castlebar Macleod. In 2001, my first win, I crossed the line on Provocative, with Meg Wade on Kelkette Park Fyre.

I would like to express my gratitude to Meg Wade and Chris Gates who have always been my greatest mentors in endurance riding. They have continuously supported, encouraged and trusted me with their horses. They are a massive part of my success with the horses they have bred, trained and campaigned to absolute perfection. When I think about all my buckles, I’m reminded of the amazingly talented horses I have ridden, and the family and friends who have supported me

along the way. I’ve met great people over the last 23 years who have made this journey and sport even more enjoyable.

I’ll be heading over to SA this year to hopefully achieve my 21st buckle. I wish everyone competing all the best and I can’t wait to catch up with everyone! Remember, to complete is to win.

Kristie Taprell

TOM QUILTY GOLD CUP WINNERS

YEAR HORSE RIDER

1966 SHALAWI GABRIEL STECHER

1967 ZIG ZAG SAM TIMMS

1968 JACKASS LES BAILEY

1969 JACKASS JOHN COYLE

1970 EELAH CINDY LES COYLE

1971 STONEY ROSS WEBB

1972 STONEY WARREN WEBB

1973 TUMBLONG COL ADAMS

1974 BING ARTHUR PATTERSON

1975 NODDY ERICA WILLIAMS

1976 SANROBLEE JOE ROBERT THOMPSON

1977 TALLY HO SAM TIMMS

1978 TEQUILA JUNE PETERSEN

1979 KARELLA BUCKSHOT SUE MAY

1980 EL TECO LARRY ROSS

1981 ROBBIE MAX LOCKHART

1982 DUNWINGERI ST. NICHOLAS DAVID MARSHALL

1983 CHIP CHASE SADAQA PETER COLE

1984 ARABIAN PARK AMIERR ALAN MACKINDER

1985 GLENALLAN SOLOMON JENNY OLIVER

1986 GLENALLAN SOLOMON JENNY OLIVER

1987 GLENALLAN SOLOMON JENNY OLIVER

1988 PRINCE AUSSIE TOM THOMSEN

1989 PRINCE AUSSIE TOM THOMSEN

1990 SHARAHD MELODIE BROOK SAMPLE

1991 TANTAWANGLO HAMAL ZAHAB ANDREW BAILEY

1992 TANTAWANGLO HAMAL ZAHAB ANDREW BAILEY

1993 SHARAHD CAPRICE BOB SAMPLE

1994 SARCHEDON CHRIS MALONE

1995 SHARAHD CAVALIER BROOK SAMPLE

1996 RAHFIRE KING MARK HAIGH

1997 PEPPERSFIELD NABUCCO TERRY WOOD

1998 DAYCARA HAZIM DALE COOPER

1999 = PEPPERSFIELD NABUCCO TERRY WOOD = KYNNUM PARK SADIA RON HAIGH

YEAR HORSE RIDER

2000 CRYSTAL FLYER MARGARET WADE

2001

= KELKETTE PARK FYRE MARGARET WADE

= PROVOCATIVE KRISTIE McGAFFIN

2002 PINNACLE PARK NISHKA BROOK SAMPLE

2003 = CASTLEBAR MACLEOD MARGARET WADE

= ROWALLAN MISS LILLY KRISTIE McGAFFIN

2004

= CURRINGA DOMINO MICHAEL TAYLOR = REEFLEX JOYCE CORBETT

2005 Event stopped due to rain.

2006 TORA BLAR-ZAY ABDULLAH KHARMIS ALI SAEED (UAE)

2007 = AROVO MINI HARVEST CHRISTOPH SCHORK (USA)

= ENDUROWEST KUMARI ANTON REID

2008 CHINA DOLL MARGARET WADE

= TARRANGOWER CRECENDO BROOK SAMPLE

2009

= BROOKLEIGH RICARDO MATTHEW SAMPLE

2010 BROOKLEIGH EXCALIBUR BROOK SAMPLE

2011 KURRAJONG CONCORDE KRISTIE TAPRELL (McGAFFIN)

2012 BROOKLEIGH EXCALIBUR BROOK SAMPLE

2013 BROOKLEIGH EXCALIBUR BROOK SAMPLE

2014 TARRANGOWER CRECENDO JESSICA LANGRIDGE

2015 CAP BRAVEHEART BEN HUDSON

2016 LAURALYN NOTORIOUS DEBBIE GRULL

2017 TIERVIEW SALAMA BROOKE BROWNCORDELL

2018 CASTLEBAR BELAIR KRISTIE TAPRELL (McGAFFIN)

2019 MATTA MIA DIMARI KAYLEA MAHER

2020 No event due to COVID-19

2021 = MINTON EAST CHAUCER JESSICA AISTROPE

= WILLOWSTAR BAY-SIL STELLA HARBISON

2022 = CASTLEBAR ROULETTE KRISTIE TAPRELL

= CASTLEBAR BAZAAR TAHLIA FRANKE

2023 TONKI DEE BOO NOVAK ASHLEY COLE

Final Top Five

MIDDLEWEIGHT

HEAVYWEIGHT

Endurance NSW 2024 Report

The year of 2024 has been one of steady progress for NSWERA. Our membership has been boosted by an increase in intermediate members. These members are encouraged to become full endurance riders through a membership fees discount campaign halfway through the year and a Step Up Program that motivates riders to progress from their two 40km novice rides by reimbursing the entry fee into their first 80km event.

The NSW ride calendar has been strong throughout 2024. However, the weather continues to present challenges, causing cancellations of some rides. In true character of endurance riding, ride organising committees have stepped up to fill the gaps at short notice, allowing people to be able to complete their training programs and progress to this Tom Quilty event with fit horses.

The interest in the FEI side of the sport has been strengthened by events such as the new Burrumbuttock carnival that have allowed horses and riders to qualify to a certain level. However, the lack of 160km FEI Three Star events has meant that members of the Australian World Equestrian Games have had to go overseas to complete their qualifications. The NSW State Championships at Neville in October 2025 hopes to fill this gap by offering a full FEI carnival, at championship level.

This year’s Scenic City State Championship ride at Mt Stromlo in the ACT saw our NSWERA treasurer, Brandon Dick, take the Championship spot.

NSWERA is very proud that in addition to Brandon, three other NSWERA members travelled to Monpazier, France to represent Australia – Catherine Bailey and James Sheahan plus Tahlia Franke as a more than capable reserve.

NSWERA has been stimulating Dual Affiliation between neighbouring States. While this has the greatest effect on those interested in their State's pointscore, it provides another dimension to providing the greatest possible number of ride opportunities for our NSW members, especially 160km and marathon events, and strengthening the entries for rides near state borders.

The Youth Development Squad "captained" by Sonia Bonham, has maintained a great momentum by mentoring young people through the process of endurance riding. This has been achieved through practical development days and online talks given by leading lights in our sport.

The NSW State Management Committee wishes all who travel to the 2024 Tom Quilty Event in South Australia a safe and successful journey both to and from the ride and at the actual event.

Endurafest 2024 CEIO 1* Australasia Regional Endurance Championships

If you can dream it, you can make it happen. Such was the case with Endurafest 2024 when Peter Toft, of Oz Endurance (Q) Inc, dreamed up a massive and seemingly impossible event. Like a dog with a bone, Peter has had a unique passion for endurance and the well suited Arabian breed his whole life. The concept of a high performance international event with spectator friendly facilities, and adventures on track to see the action up close has long been on the cards for Oz Endurance. With the rallying of his friends and family, and some exceptional sponsors, he made this event a dream come true. We saw riders plus officials from Japan, China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, the USA and from within Australia travel to Queensland, Australia. The country township was buzzing, the WhatsApp groups chiming, and the Sponsors donating with the excitement of this inaugural event.

With the support of the Goondiwindi Regional Council the ride was held in Inglewood, a small rural town in Queensland, with a population of less than 1000 people. Endurafest 24 almost doubled the town’s population during the weekend of 30th May to June 2nd with the influx of 187 riders, their support crew, sponsors, trade village proprietors, officials, and VIP guests. Among the VIP judges and guests were the President of the Australian Endurance Riders Association, Ms Sioux Reid, Equestrian Queensland CEO, Mr Briston Toft, former Show Jumping champion,

Mr Guy Creighton, Australian Team representative, Dr Alexandra Toft, and Arabian Endurance horse breeder, Mrs Coralie Gordon of Cameo Stud.

The focus of the combined FEI and Queensland Endurance Riders Association (QERA) festival was the Australasia Regional Endurance Championships (AREC). If there is one thing our ‘Drinkers of the Wind’ Arabians love to do it is run and run and run, so an FEI CEIO1* 100km endurance event through Australian forest and farm trails was just what the ‘Drinkers’ ordered. The format was for a teams’ event with riders representing their countries riding a pool of qualified and proven endurance horses that had been generously loaned by their Australian owners and trainers. Well known horse transport company, IRT, was a welcome sponsor of the horses.

Kicked off by Inglewood wine boutique, The Wobbly Goat, the bar opened with a happy hour that stretched into two or three, much to the appreciation of the weary travellers. Complemented by an authentic Aussie sausage sizzle Endurafest began with an introduction of the teams and their respective support crew. Each country’s team had a dedicated Chef d’Equipe, horse coordinator, and Team Vet. The introductions were followed by an educational session given by the veterinarians on appropriate care and management of the equine endurance athlete. Horse welfare in this sport is paramount and the human athlete is rarely thought of, if at all.

Starting just at the first hint of light at 6am the athletes left the Inglewood Showgrounds, passing through farmland, then crisscrossed Wondul Range National forest trails and creeks. Before disappearing over the first creek crossing the bobbing headlamps of the riders across the fields made for a twinkling delight. Unusually for an Australian endurance ride there were on track crew points, the first with breakfast pastries and refreshments was sponsored by Equestrian Queensland and the Albert St Bakery. The collegiate atmosphere and excited anticipation of the crews and FEI officials was a highlight as we were spoiled by the beautiful soft orange and pink hues of an outback sunrise.

Official photographer, Sarah Sullivan, was able to capture some amazing images throughout the weekend’s events, while Geoff McWilliam added footage from his drone camera.

The course terrain provided some variation with deep sandy pockets taking some by surprise, after travelling in red dirt alongside the dingo fence. Many of the local farmers opened

their gates to allow the riders passage across their land, passing crops and cattle along the way. Recent rains had the ground softer underfoot than has previously been seen for endurance rides in this location. Perhaps as a consequence only one horse vetted out during the AREC ride with some transient lameness.

Australian Chef d’Equipe, Penny Toft, who has previously won rides there commented, “Despite appearing as a flat track the course is technical because there are a lot of twists and turns with beautiful long stretches of good going. It was cooler than expected so not much strapping was required. All the horses looked bright and fresh with areas to stop for a pick of grass or a drink along the track. There was great visibility for the spectators with the ability to see the riders coming from at least a kilometre away.”

Curiously, the native wildlife did not get the Endurafest memo and very few came out to play or show off to our International guests on this occasion.

Other rides at Inglewood have seen thousands of Galahs, Cockatoos, Kangaroos, and the occasional fox or honey bee.

After a steady day with each horse assessed following loops of 35kms, 32.5kms and 32.5kms it was a thrilling gallop finish with Australia’s Catherine Bailey leading each of the three loops until the last few hundred metres when a focussed and determined Ashley Cole, from New Zealand, passed her to grab line honours by 16 seconds.

Ultimately the event was won by Team Australia, with Catherine Bailey riding Bullio Charlotte, Emma Ireland riding Kurrajong Aces, Eadie McWilliam riding Harry Who te and Sarah Parker riding Cooroora Allyjah in an overall ride time of 18:33:14 hours. Malaysia’s riders Mohd Hashim riding Splendacrest Clara, Mohd Saari on Beersheva Djeishah ), Mohd Embong on Bullio Gold Son, and Mohd Ramly riding Cameo Felspar held the team together to narrowly take second place in 18:35:11 hours. On one of her regular mounts, Razorback

Blue Avatar, Ashley Cole with riders Susan Latta on Allusion TA , Helen Graham on Wattle Tree Amir and Lucy Allomes on Shanelli-Park Phoenix, for the New Zealand team, completed 2 hours behind Malaysia. Japan’s riders Toshiaki Hirohashi on Emilina Mifuyu Arai on Drusilla te , Izumi Nakayama on La Luminiere te, and Misaki Nagatsu riding Razorback Queen Mamba completed 4th in a time of 22:32:22 hours.

AREC was capped off on the Sunday morning by the Bremervale Justice Challenge. This was a showcase where the horse and rider combinations were judged on equitation, presentation, recovery times, and the condition of the horses following the 100km ride. The parade commenced with a number of our young Australian Endurance Riders, as proud flag bearers, leading each team onto the grounds. The horses were put through their paces in front of the crowd while an FEI veterinarian and the VIP judges made their deliberations. Some of the horses looked like they were fresh

enough to start another 100km race, holding their tails high and skipping sideways into an ad lib ‘half pass’. The New Zealanders once again gave the Aussies a good run with the team finishing a very close second to Australia. New Zealand Chef d’Equipe, Ms Ursula Keenan said, “The Kiwis are still chatting about how great it all was. We really did have the best time!”

The credit for the success of the Australasia Regional Endurance Championships must go to the invaluable input of Equestrian Queensland, the FEI officials, particularly Ground Jury President, Robyn Parnell, and the sponsors. The AREC Best Conditioned prize was sponsored by Smithfield Cattle Company, while the completion prizes for all AREC riders were sponsored by the Australian Arabian Horse Society, Ariat, and Kentucky Equine Research. The tireless hours contributed by Beck McWilliam to encourage and organise prizes and sponsorship cannot go unmentioned. Endurafest24’s major sponsors included IRT Horse Transport, Sydney Glass Lifters,

Albert St Bakery in Inglewood, GDM Property, United Metal Products, ESNZ Endurance, Goondiwindi Regional Council, Toft Endurance, Zilco, and a huge effort by Tarni McCormack with Equestrian Queensland.

Hopefully Australia will see more events of this calibre held in our region of the world. Australian Team reserve rider, David Urquhart, went on to win the Open CEI 120km 2* the following day. Four of the riders at Endurafest24 have also represented Australia as team or crew in the World Endurance Championships in Monpazier, France, during September this year.

Best wishes to all endurance athletes entered in this year’s Tom Quilty Gold Cup at Wirrina Cove South Australia for a safe and successful ride completion. May your dreams come true!

Written by Dr Allison Brown, neither journalist nor writer, but a member of the Endurafest24 organising committee, AERA and FEI Endurance Steward, QERA committee member, occasional Endurance Rider, and frequent Emergency Doctor.

QERA Report

It’s hard to believe 16 months have passed since QERA hosted the 2023 Tom Quilty Gold Cup at the ever-impressive Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex in Imbil. The brief lead-up to this event was demanding, but the TQ23 committee skillfully combined their talents and ideas to deliver a fantastic experience for riders, strappers, volunteers, officials and spectators.

The completion rate was the highest ever for all Tom Quilty events, at 72%. We saw a competitive field, with the win being claimed by New

Zealander Ashley Cole on her stallion Tonki Dee Boo Novak in a blistering time of 8 hours and 44 minutes. Second across the line and just a minute behind the winner was NSW combination Catherine Bailey and Razorback Targaryen, with Imbil local Nikki Sample riding Brookleigh Danu finishing third across the line.

Among the winners and faster times, there were also stories of success from riders achieving their first buckles, horses and riders making comebacks from injuries, and horses aged well into their 20s completing strongly.

So what’s happened in Queensland since TQ23? We’ve had two fabulous State Championship events, a number of FEI rides on the calendar, the annual Far-A-Way and Pioneer Trek marathons, an internationally attended ride at Endurafest, and the famous Winton to Longreach 220km ride made a comeback.

The Lockyer Valley Endurance Riders club held the 2023 QERA State Championships at Inglewood in August last year. Our Southern friends saw much success over the weekend, with NSW combination Debra McQueen

Photo credit

Denise Keelan

and Kynnum Park Mr Epona claiming the 2023 State Champions title. More recently, the Widgee Endurance Riders Club held the 2024 QERA State Championships in July. Despite the negative temperatures, big hills and concussive ground, the strong team of volunteers delivered an incredible event which saw an 81% completion rate in the 160km event, and our new QERA State Champions Virginia Barber and Fevers Frederique take the win in a time of 12 hours and 46 seconds.

It’s one thing to drive through outback Queensland, but it’s quite another to see this magnificent landscape from horseback. The celebrated Winton to Longreach ride attracted 32 brave riders in July last year. The gruelling 220km two-day ride followed the stock route and old Cobb & Co coach track, with an overnight rest stop at the Manaroo Wool Shed. The ride was to celebrate 100 years of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) but also to revive the memory of the rides in the 1980s that provided momentum for the Stockmen’s Hall of Fame at Longreach. All proceeds from the ride were donated to Angel Flight and the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which are essential services in Western Queensland where distances are so vast and communities so remote.

Andrea Laws-King, VERA, riding Heathfield’s Rashani, won MWT Division and Line Honours in a time of 17 hours and 10 mins. QERA members Matt Gadsby riding Melcot Santini and Tracey Eastaughffe riding ShanelliPark Phoenix won their respective divisions (HWT and LWT), with QERA junior Taylor Grogan the youngest rider to complete the 220km at just 10 years of age, placing first JNR on her mare Anastazia VA.

events were the highest they’ve been for a number of years. We wish QERA member Alexandra Toft the very best at the 2024 FEI World Endurance Championships in Monpazier, France. Alex will be riding French horse Calcium Artagnan, with her home-bred gelding Twilight te a reserve.

The renowned Far-A-Way Easter marathon saw six QERA members achieve a coveted marathon completion, with the tough 400km Pioneer Trek marathon in Far North Queensland granting completions to both entrants.

We saw a first this year, with local, interstate and international riders making the trip to the small town of Inglewood for the inaugural Endurafest event in late May. There was something for everyone, with 172 riders tackling distances from 20km to 160km. Friday saw the teams event, with 19 riders from Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Japan and New Zealand tackle the 100km FEI*. Our Australian team consisting of Eadie McWilliam, Sarah Parker, Catherine Bailey and Emma Ireland took home the gold medal, with the fastest combined riding time. A special mention to QERA member Eadie, riding Harry Who te, and the owners who offered pool horses for the international riders.

We’ve seen huge interest in FEI events over the past 12 months with many riders setting their sights on competing for Australia on the world stage. FEI entry numbers at Inglewood and Roma

The weather took a turn for the worst the following day, with cyclonic winds and drenching rain hitting ride base and those on track. It will definitely be one for the endurance archives and around the campfire. Even with this curveball, the show went on with the vet team, data entry and time gate volunteers not letting the horrendous weather stop the event. The camaraderie and dedication to our sport truly shone that weekend, highlighting how we riders and supporters embody the very essence of endurance.

QERA wishes all TQ24 competitors and their trusty steeds the best of luck. Your strappers and supporters will be beside you every step of the way, whether they are there in person or in spirit. We look forward to welcoming people from all over Australia and overseas back to Stirling’s Crossing in 2026, for the 60th anniversary of the Tom Quilty Gold Cup.

Photo creditDenise Keelan

Photo credit

Denise Keelan

Photo creditDenise Keelan

Tasmanian Equine Endurance Riders Association

2023 saw continued healthy participation in all events. It was exciting to see the formation of two new affiliated clubs and even better to enjoy new rides at Bakers Beach and Castra. The new ride from 2022 on the large rural property, Glenelg, at Hamilton expanded to become the “Derwent Double”. This gave riders the opportunity to make the most of the travel to the south of the state with two rides on offer during the Easter break.

Reflecting on the nature of our 2023 rides, it would be fair to say that there was an overall trend to challenge riders with more technical tracks that required horses to be well prepared and riders to make decisions consistent with both their own and their horse’s experience and ability.

This theme continued at our State Championships, hosted by Pat Lamprey at Sassafras. Despite the

many rides held at Sassafras over the years, the hard working committee, lead by Deborah and Mark Wyllie, managed to find brand new tracks that kept us largely off roads and adjusting our pace to meet the challenges of the varied terrain. Completion rates of 69% for the 160km event and 78% for the 95km event, reflect the way in which riders met the challenges.

Special congratulations go to Shane Neilley, winner of the 95km, riding Woodsong Indiana Rose and Jess Goulding, winner of the 160km ride, riding Beer Street Bewitched. Special Thanks go to the 2023 State Championship committee for their hard work in putting the event together with a view to hosting TQ25 at this venue.

All riding members are most appreciative of the efforts of all clubs, whose members work so hard to organise events and continually look to improve the experiences for riders.

Photo creditRoger Nichols Photo creditRoger Nichols

December saw us again substitute our skins for cocktail party attire for our annual awards dinner. Points and distance riders/horses were presented with shirts, jackets and rugs. Congratulations to Kirsty Neilley and her horse Woodsong Princess Barbie, who was the first placed AERA LW distance horse (1164km). Kirsty’s horse also placed third for points.

Tasmania horses took the top two AERA MW positions for distance; Beer Street Coven Moon (924km, ridden by Jack Robinson) and Beer Street Dezhda (920km), with Beer Street Dezhda also placing third for points. Congratulations to Kaye Mitchell on her 10 year partnership with Dezhda. Special congratulations go

to Jack in his very first season as an endurance rider!

Other notable achievements at the national level include three of the five MW points riders coming from TEERA. Congratulations go to Deborah Wyllie, Noel Lockhart and Kaye Mitchell. Kaye and Deborah were also amongst the top five distance riders. Dylan Stevens and Alexa Parker represented us admirably at TQ23 placing third and seventh respectively in the Junior Division.

In addition to riders, Andrew Parker was recognised for his outstanding contributions to TEERA throughout 2023. Andrew is a familiar figure at rides and particularly noted for his expertise in managing the ETS. A big thankyou to Andrew, all our other volunteers and, once again, to Andrew Miles for his continued leadership as TEERA President.

Photo creditRoger Nichols

Photo creditRoger Nichols

Photo credit

Roger Nichols

Photo creditRoger Nichols

Photo creditLouise Mackay

Photo creditLouise Mackay

Photo creditLouise Mackay

Victorian Endurance Riders Association

Following on from the impressive Tom Quilty Gold Cup at Stirling’s Crossing, Imbil, June 2023, VERA has had some great rides across the state.

2023 saw 430 entries in VERA rides and a further 4 members in a dual affiliated event in SAERA. So far in 2024 we have had 504 riders entering with their trusty steeds and a further 19 members travelling interstate to compete.

The Legendary State Championships were held @ Mia Mia in 2023. A challenging track with some good hill work saw 79 rider and horses across the 3 ride distances of 160km, 85km and 41km. MWT Tracy Brandon riding TMB ES Pure Silver took out 1st place and line honours with LWT Victoria Bice riding in tandem and also taking out 1st place. Victorian riders HWT Russell Gillingham on Ennerdale Rubik (also HWT BC) and Jnr Ben Riebling on OSO Red Revolution also rode successfully to 1st place in their divisions

This year’s VERA State Championships were held @ the Centennial Park Reserve in the tiny town of Eldorado, fast becoming a favourite ride base amongst our members. Situated just off the Hume Freeway, less than an hour south of the Victorian/NSW state border saw impressive entries from NSWERA and a clear sweep of the prize pool in their border raid. MWT Tracy-Lee Cosser riding Illarak Bequest took out 1st place and line honours along with BC. Closely followed 3 seconds later by LWT Chloe Hayden riding Betty Be On Time and securing 1st place and BC. HWT rider Shelley Jones on Shellel Blue secured 1st place amongst many happy tears with Jnr

Poppy Kettlewell riding OSO Surprise taking out 1st place and BC. Just a reminder NSWERA, there’s always next year to take back our cup!

2024 saw a new ROC on our calendar headed by Trish Van Donk. A seasoned successful rider, trainer, breeder herself, Trish put on a great event well managed and enjoyed by all in attendance. Hope to see your ride back in 2025 Trish along with our other GERZ events on the calendar.

Sadly the past year has seen the passing of two of our members. Pauline Wallace, long standing rider, breeder, RO, VERA SMC committee member and frequently available TPR. Never a dull moment with Pauline in the Vet ring and always willing to jump in and help or educate where needed. Julie Woods, Life Member of VERA, long standing rider, RO, TPR and VERA SMC committee member. Julie was one of the pioneers of endurance riding in Victoria along with her husband Doug (dec). VERA acknowledges the contributions both Pauline and Julie made to endurance over many years in both riding and volunteer roles.

VERA would like to acknowledge the continued support of our vets, officials, ride volunteers, and sponsors. Endurance can’t happen without all of you and we appreciate your support of our sport and our members.

Victorian Endurance Riders Assoc. is also very proud to be a sponsor of the Tom Quilty Gold Cup in 2024. We wish every success to the TQ Ride Committee in your event and hope the weather stays calm and the participants enjoy the superb scenery and warm welcome you are sure to give.

Good luck and happy riding to all.

Photo creditLouise Mackay

Photo creditLouise Mackay

South Australia 2023

by Erin Short, SAERA Member

With the Tom Quilty Gold Cup being held in South Australia in 2024 many SAERA members made it their goal to qualify and prepare themselves and their horses for the prestigious event. 2023 saw Quilty test events at Wirrina Cove in April and October giving members and the greater endurance community the opportunity to test out the proposed course.

The April Wirrina event saw 7 x 80km nominations with three of those riders keen to get an idea of the course they would be facing later in the year at the State Championships, for some of them it would be their chance to qualify for the Quilty in 2024. Two of those riders were Annalise DreverBorchardt and Erin Short, both of whom were within the 87.71% of riders who successfully completed the 80km event. The cherry on top being Annalise Drever-Borchardt riding Talunga Park Azraff taking out Best Conditioned Junior and Erin Short

riding TMB ES Silver Supernova were judged Best Conditioned Lightweight. Meanwhile the rest of the ride distances saw an impressive 100% completion rate. This is a testament to the many riders braving a tough and most certainly Quilty worthy course. It was cold and it rained but even the thick fog throughout the day could not compromise the spectacular views from the tops of the rolling coastal ranges out over Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island.

After all the preparation throughout the year the riders were ready for the South Australian Endurance Riders’ Association 160km State Championship event at Wirrina at the end of October. The ride offered numerous distances but most importantly the 160km main event. This distance saw 13 nominations consisting of South Australian, New South Wales and Victorian riders looking to see what was in store for the Tom Quilty Gold Cup in 2024. The

weather was much kinder on this occasion which allowed the riders to appreciate the views to their fullest whilst taking on the mammoth 160km task. Starting at 2am the 160km riders set out in the dark hoping for a successful ride for all. Among the field again were Annalise Drever-Borchardt and Erin Short hoping to complete their first 160km and qualify to ride in the Quilty in 2024.

The course was a true test of endurance with tough terrain to cover on every leg. There can be no greater sense of accomplishment than to complete such a distance over the course at Wirrina, whether it

Photo credit

Lynn Ruesseler

Photo credit - Lynn Ruesseler

be your first or one of many 160km completions. Out of the 13 riders in the field 11 were successful, with the Championship being taken by New South Wales riders Tracy-Lee Cossor riding Illarak Bequest and daughter Hannah riding Newbury Illustraa’s Impact crossing the line for equal first in 14 hours and 31 minutes.

South Australian riders to successfully complete included 4 worthy Middleweight riders and horses being - Jil Bourton riding Piper V.E.S., Kimberly Measham riding Antola Exstream (who also took out Best Conditioned from 5th place!), Jodie Luck riding Almazaan Elementary, (his first 160km completion) and Alannah Luck riding West Coast Asher. No Heavyweight riders took on the course this year, but the aspiring Quilty participants Annalise Drever-Borchardt riding Talunga Park Azraff successfully completed and took out 1st Junior and Best Conditioned in 16 hours and 33 minutes while Erin Short riding TMB ES Silver Supernova ahieved 2nd Lightweight in 15 hours and 9 minutes.

The three riders from Castlebar were all successful with twins Naomi McGaffin, riding Heathfield’s Prince and Kristie Taprell, riding Castlebar Centurion, taking out equal third along with Tahlia Franke, riding Mounir Font Noire clinching the Lightweight title and Best Conditioned.

There is no doubt that the 2024 Tom Quilty Gold Cup will be a tremendous event put together by a small but mighty team of South Australian Endurance enthusiasts, it will certainly be an event you won’t want to miss!

QUILTY QUEST 2024

There is no doubt about the ultimate thrill of winning your first Quilty Buckle and SAERA hopes that this year’s Wirrina Cove TQ event will provide that dreamed of goal for many riders. As well as the wonderful satisfaction gained with such an achievement the SAERA Management Committee have provided a little extra “competition” especially for those first timers lining up to give it a crack – the Quilty Quest 2024.

The generosity of sponsors: Liversage Australia, Archer Equine and Dixon Smith Equestrian have enabled us to offer a fantastic prize of a Liversage saddle, Archer saddle pad & matching Zilco bridle and breastplate. No matter where you place, if you have entered the Quest and you have achieved your first buckle YOU will be in the draw for this fabulous prize package which will be drawn at the buckle presentations on Sunday. Best of luck to all and congratulations on your first TQ buckle.

Photo credit

Lynn Ruesseler

Photos by Sarah Sullivan Photography

Natural Curve Shahzada ▶

Natural Curve Hidalgo ▶

Regular Natural Curve ▶

Western Australian Endurance Riders Association 2023

The WA 2023 season opened a little differently with a 40km only twilight ride at Collie racetrack, as a gentle introduction (back) to the sport before the weather had really cooled off. WA has a short season in comparison to some other States, so we have to think of some new approaches. It was also an excellent opportunity for newer riders to introduce their horses to riding in the dark – riding INTO it is much easier than starting a fit over excited horse in the dark.

This was followed with a very successful endurance clinic, which had a total of 42 attendees – we had a wait list! A series of presentations and displays was followed by a 7km ride with a checkpoint, giving people the chance to practice controlled starting, on course and checkpoint etiquette, strapping, and vet checks. Many smiling faces and plenty of comments that people would definitely be back, which is exactly what we wanted to hear.

Before we knew it, it was Easter, and our traditional flagship 3 day 240km marathon, along with a 3 days 120km mini marathon, and a 3 day “micro” – 60km in total. Numbers were small in the “big one” but all bar one horse completed, an awesome result. The finishers included a number of first timers, which is even better – hopefully they’ll all be back!

It continued to be VERY warm well into the season this year, which presented plenty of challenges, but by the time we hit the 2 days 160km ride at Ravensthorpe on the South Coast, it was freezing! Nevertheless, it was an awesome spot to hold a ride, certainly a different experience for many, and speaking as someone in the vet ring for the whole weekend, the campfire and catering were first rate. I’ll have to take the riders’ word for the track, but apparently it was beautiful. The 2 finishers of the 160km ride rode the whole way together and were able to share honours, one being a lightweight and one a middleweight. Both took out Best Conditioned in their respective categories.

State Championships was also a bit different this year, being held in June. The hope was that we would be giving riders a chance to bring fresher horses to the event rather than expecting the big effort towards the end of the year. The well deserved winner was Natasha Ellery riding Sundale Bellagio, or “Joe”. Tash is one of our most experienced and well credentialled riders – I was alongside her in the 2022 State championships when she withdrew Joe despite being in a commanding position, when she knew something wasn’t right with her horse before anyone else did. This year’s win was well deserved and a testament to her horsewomanship. Joe also took out Best Conditioned Heavyweight.

Best Conditioned Lightweight was Donna McKee riding Torah Mariah, and BC Middleweight was Kirsten Melis riding Woodybrook Houdini. They crossed the line together, just as they did at Ravensthorpe: they are also a mare and a stallion – can’t help thinking they’d make a rather nice start to an endurance dynasty…. Winner of the 80km ride was Shirley O”Donoghue, riding Sunkissed Thunder Shakaan, who was also Best Conditioned Middleweight. Second and Best Conditioned Lightweight was Ruth Morley riding Mariba Ashwani. Our season closed out with one of the most scenic rides we have – it was a new venue this year but Denmark struggles to have a track that ISN’T beautiful. It’s also far enough from Perth to ensure that plenty of people stay the Saturday night as well and have a bit of a close out party… And then just like that, it was time to start thinking about next year, and a Quilty that for many of us, is the only other one that we can really manage to get to. I’m told there may a bit of a delegation from WA in 2024 – fingers crossed all goes to plan and everyone who wants to go gets there. The very best of luck to EVERYONE who enters, wherever you hail from – the WAERA community will be willing you on. WAERA would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the following, who were admitted into the AERA Hall of Fame in 2023:

“Blue”, ridden by Ken Hobday: 10,800.5 kilometres, 6 Marathon Buckles including: 4 x 400km Shahzada Buckles, 5 x 320 km Marathons, and 2x 240 km Marathons

5 x 160 km Quilty Buckles 2 x 160 km Multi Day Rides 2 x 160 km rides.

“Poseidon Moon”, ridden by Frances Overheu: 12,379 endurance kilometres. Of the 137 rides Poseidon Moon entered, he completed 127 of them. Of the 127 he won 84 of them and placed in all but 14. He clocked up 73 best conditioned awards. A total point score of over 1,000 points. This made him the AERA Top Points Horse of all time, not just in Western Australia, but over all of Australia, across all State and weight divisions. He retired at 1005.75 points.

Liz Mulcahy: 20,568 endurance kilometres, 2 x 320 km Marathon Buckles, 8 x 240 km Marathon Buckles , 2 Quilty Buckles , 7 State Championships Buckles.

Sadly, Ken Hobday passed away earlier this year, at the age of 100. Many members of the WAERA family were able to celebrate his 100th birthday with him, appropriately at an endurance ride! He will be greatly missed.

PROGRAM OF EVENTS

MONDAY 14TH OCTOBER

9.00am – 5.00pm

Yankalilla Showground Bio Security Checkpoint open.

9.30am Ride base opens.

5.30pm Ride base closes to horse arrivals for the day.

TUESDAY 15TH OCTOBER

9.00am – 5.00pm Yankalilla Showground Bio Security Checkpoint open.

5.30pm

Ride base closes to horse arrivals for the day.

WEDNESDAY 16TH OCTOBER

9.00am – 5.00pm

Yankalilla Showground Bio Security Checkpoint open.

2.00pm – 4.30pm Merchandise shop open.

5.30pm

Ride base closes to horse arrivals for the day.

THURSDAY 17TH OCTOBER

9.00am – 3.30pm

9.30am – 12 noon

10.00am

10.00am – 1.00pm

2.00pm – 5.00pm

Yankalilla Showground Bio Security Checkpoint open.

Mobile weighing station moving around ride base.

AERA Q&A Meeting at TQ Central.

Secretaries Office open and Merchandise shop open.

Secretaries Office open and Merchandise shop open.

4.00pm All horses must now be on ride base.

4.30pm

Vet Ring procedure walk through #1.

6.00pm Sponsors and Landowners Meet & Greet at TQ Central.

7.00pm

AERA Presentations at TQ Central

FRIDAY 18TH OCTOBER

9.30am – 11.30am Secretaries Office open (late changes only).

10.00am – 12 noon Pre-ride vetting.

10.00am – 1.00pm Merchandise shop open.

12.30pm – 1.00pm AERA Teams Competition nominations

1.00pm

Vet Ring procedure walk through #2.

3.00pm Pre-ride Briefing at TQ Central. 5.00pm Strappers Race.

8.00pm Generators off.

12.00 midnight TQ24 commences.

SATURDAY 19TH OCTOBER

10.00am – 12.00 noon Merchandise shop open. 12.00 midnight

TQ24 ceases. All riders must be off course.

SUNDAY 20TH OCTOBER

Top 10 Rug Presentation

9.30am

Top 5 Rug Presentation for each Division

Best Conditioned and Pat Slater Judging

2.00pm Buckle Presentation Ceremony at TQ Central.

6.30pm

TQ24 Dinner Dance at Breakfree Resort.

MONDAY 21ST OCTOBER

6.00pm Ride base closes.

REBEKAH BIANCA STUDIOS

Rebekah Bianca Studios, for the past decade has been based in Angaston, Barossa Valley, however is now building strong connections in Tamworth NSW.

With intension to relocate while temporarily living out of her van, Rebekah says the team at RBS will manage clients in SA and NSW moving forward. Specialising in delivering exquisite photography services tailored to vibrant and adventurous people. Their mission is to craft enduring, timeless memories for each client, ensuring they feel confident and deeply supported throughout their journey. From the initial consultation to the final product, they are dedicated to providing a personalised experience that captures the essence of each unique personality and moment.

Rebekah Bianca Studios offers a diverse range of products and services. Although they specialise in weddings, they also capture family images and brand sessions tailored to your business's vision and personality.

TQ24 GALLERY LINK

Site Map

WIRRINA COVE - SOUTH AUSTRALIA

18TH – 19TH OCTOBER

WIRRINA COVE

TRADE STALLS

TQ CENTRAL

COURSE ACCESS

COURSE ACCESS

QUARANTINE AREA

VET RING

VET HOSPITAL

Dream Big HAVE A PLAN: MAKE IT HAPPEN

ASHLEY COLE’S “ASSAULT” ON TQ23

Photo credit

Denise Keelan

Tom Quilty 24 is excited to welcome TQ23 champion, the Kiwi “Ninja”- Ashley Cole, back to Wirrina Cove South Australia, to defend her title at Australia’s iconic and most loved endurance event – The Tom Quilty Gold Cup, 58th Edition

Ashley says, “I’ll be wearing the number One Bib and hope to take the title back to NZ a second time. I have fond memories of Wirrina Cove, having ridden there twice before.” Ashley defines it as a top class ride base in a stunningly picturesque area that provides an exciting and championship worthy course for all riders and she pays homage to all TQ ride organisers, no matter what state, for their passion, commitment and hard work to stage this unique and world class ride.

No doubt the “Quilty Family” will welcome Ashley back, who says, “My duty is to defend my title however, anyone who has worked harder than me and those who refuse to give up, if they cross the line in front of me, I will bow down to them.”

Ashley began her endurance career as a junior back in the early ‘80’s with a pause of a couple of decades while she and husband Ash, concentrated on building their farming business on the Coromandel Peninsular in NZ’s North Island, where the mountainous terrain with sweeping vistas and unspoilt beaches offer perfect Endurance breeding and training opportunities. She describes the “Mandel” as being very remote - though on the map it appears a hop, skip and a jump to anywhere, it has resulted in many long (and winding) drives to endurance events all over the country. Consequently, putting your top horse on a plane to fly across “the Ditch” to follow a dream was no big deal!

Ashley came back to the sport with a vengeance in 2013, with the “flag on the hill” being a ride in the Tom Quilty

and just two years later she achieved her first experience, on a borrowed horse, at the 50th Anniversary event at Wiseman’s Ferry NSW, very near to the birthplace of this iconic ride. That first TQ ride, still embedded in her psyche, fuelled her long held dream to WIN the Gold Cup!

“Lining up for the start of my first Quilty at the Hawksbury was the most surreal experience - the smoke of the campfires, the crowds of onlookers and the parading of 342 horses and riders prior to the midnight start, with the live music of Trevor Knight blasting out around us, brought on tears of excitement and emotion at being a part of this,” Ashley reflects, “It’s such a good feeling - anyone contemplating riding a Quilty - I say just do it! “ That first experience left Ashley addicted and since then she has become a regular competitor in the event and earning her first buckle in 2022 in the mud at Tooraweenah, taking away the foreign rider trophy - was only to seal her resolve to come back and win the Cup!

Well, it wasn’t a long wait – careful planning and much attention to detail convinced her to bring her own horse, Tonki Dee Boo Novak, for a determined crack at the Cup/TQ23 at the purposebuilt Stirling’s Crossing endurance venue. For several months prior she campaigned Novak across two states warming up for the “big one” with generous support and encouragement from stables and individuals of the Australian endurance community. Ashley reflects on the importance of having a good team around her who contributed to her win last year, “ You have to surround yourself with like

minded people, people who believe in the dream and want to climb the ladder with you and not pull you down.” That, Ashley believes, along with all your ducks lining up, attention to detail, some good luck, combined unfortunately with others’ bad luck, will get you first across the line.

Tonki Dee Boo Novak, who carried his rider in the third fastest time in TQ history joins the list of amazing stallions to win the Gold Cup. Bred in Tasmania by Keryn & Chris Mahoney, Novak has two crosses to the legendary Chip Chase Sadaqa, while his dam is by Elphin Comet (sire of UAE champions such as Tonki Dee Boo Barista, Locklea Starwood Comet and others). Ashley jokes “he looks and rides like a little kids pony but when his blood gets up he goes full Elphin Comet and turns into a beast which is what makes him a winner!”

Ashley cites the generous sponsorship of CEN Nutrition as the bedrock of preparing her horses for top level endurance competitions and is aiming for her and Novak to compete in the 2026 World Endurance Championship in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia with their FEI journey well on the way to qualify for this ultimate endurance event.

Hence her wonderful stallion will not partner her at Wirrina this year, instead Ashley plans a to ride a relative of Novak’s – Razorback Blue Avatar, who has won her last two starts with Ashley.

Ashley and her loyal team are excited for the challenge to come and look forward to what will be a blistering attempt to retain the Tom Quilty Gold Cup!

Looking Back

SAERA’S FIRST TOM QUILTY EVENT

Written by Jil Bourton

with reference to Newsletters from 1986

SA’s TQ journey began in June 1986, the first year that the annual endurance event had ventured out of its home base of 20 years near Colo NSW. Prior to this the Australian endurance membership had been asked to vote on two questions: 1. Should the TQ gold cup become the Australian Championship endurance ride? and 2. Should the event be rotated around all six states? Creating a truly National Event and accessible to all (endurance) riders. The answer was YES!

This, the 21st edition, was held at the Gawler Race Course, just a little North West of Adelaide and attracted riders from all around the country as noted in this excerpt from SAERA Newsletter July 1986:

“Make no mistake – the Quilty ride promises to be great! The committee has been inundated by enquiries from all corners of Australia. The Tasmanian team has been booked since February and W.A. advised in March that they’re sending over a “truck load” of competitors. Likewise

Queensland. A large number of N.S.W. and Victorian competitors have also indicated their intentions to attend.

And, in South Australia, one only has to glance at the lists of competitors at local rides to see the interest that is being shown in the sport here. Many of the names are unfamiliar in endurance riding, but they belong to riders seriously contending for the Quilty Gold Cup.

We welcome them all. An influx of new contestants is vital to every sport, and it is hoped that our newcomers will stay with us long after the Quilty Cup moves to its next host State (Tasmania).”

The total number of starters was 96, including 44 South Australian riders competing providing almost half the field, resulting in “14 of the 43 completions. Our experience over the 160km distance certainly showed. Commiserations to Pauline Heffernan. Pauline was second Open across the line, but her gallant ‘Ned’ was vetted out lame, his muscles stiffening after his tremendous effort.”

How much more have we learned in strapping and horse management since then – and of course Ned was perfectly sound the next day!

It also should be remembered back in those days, qualifying for the Tom Quilty was quite basic – a horse and rider only had to complete an 80km ride within time and a half of the winner in the year of the TQ Ride. This meant riders from all equestrian disciplines were attracted to this exciting “new” event, riding horses of all breeds and descriptions.

I was extremely privileged to be a part of SA’s first Quilty both as a committee member (secretary) and rider. The midnight shotgun start sent us across the main road to town and quickly straight uphill past sleeping houses and eventually onto dirt roads winding further upward, with the lights of Gawler receding behind us as we steadily climbed. There were a few “thrills and spills” but nothing that required emergency services! I will never forget the emotion and exhilaration of the moment, as is part

From L to R : Bernie Harris; Georgie Ross 10th Open TQ86 riding Ocelot; Jill Ros; Tim Whyte (Both Bernie and Tim didn’t complete the TQ86.)

Photo credit - the late Peter Gower

and parcel for all TQ starts for me –and aptly described in Ashley Cole’s TQ winner article!

“The course proved that South Australia does have some hills, contrary to the popular belief that ours’ is a flat state. The most common complaint was that the course was too hard! However, it was not too hard for half the field; a good indication it was ‘just right’ for a National Championship ride? Many thanks to our course organisers, Robert Ross and Bill Harbison, for the hours they spent planning the route and the teams of people who helped them mark the course”.

Something of particular significance in the Gawler TQ was the fact it was a “travelling” ride, something we do not see anymore and takes a huge amount of effort and resources but my oh my does it find you some challenging terrain and interesting tracks!

TQ86 started at Gawler following roads and tracks over hill after hill, including the infamous Kersbrook “Roller Coasters” (which must be ridden to be believed! Though I nearly died of shock watching Bob Sample running alongside his horse over the whole thirteen!) Then heading south up and over Gawler Town hill and finally descending to the first vet check at Kersbrook – a freezing, frost laden early morning (and yes your strappers had to get there, set up and wait for you to appear out of the gloom). The second leg really put you into the “mountains” with a climb out of Kersbrook over Mt. Gould, the descent of which was like trying to walk down a wall and then up onto a ridgeline that eventually took

you to the legendary assault up and over Mt. Crawford (a climb that has seen grown men cry! And one we sadly no longer have access to.) Absolutely the most magnificent place to be at sunrise – and is still etched in my memory!

The second Vet Check was on the flat at the Mt. Crawford Polo Grounds with a fair bit of the frost melted by the time I arrived. Another long leg, number three, of climbs and descents, dirt roads, private property and forest tracks, took riders to a paddock at Tweedie Gully, up the end of a fire track, for the third Vet Check. I never got to see the fourth leg as sadly this is where my ride ended but although it was shorter, some 20 ‘miles’ to go, the gate at the end of that fire track took riders into the notorious Glen Gillian property, to ride some of the most intense hill work in the Barossa Range. I’m sure the riders who completed were glad to see the sights of Gawler on their final descent to the finish line.

What about the Fifth leg you say? Back in the day Hundred Milers, as we still called them then (even though we’d been ‘decimalised’ for over 10 years) were FOUR legs only with 3 ”standard” Vet Checks during, then the final “do or die” at the end. If you were “lucky” the legs may have been a fairly equal distance i.e. 25 miles (40kms) a piece. The TQ86 course offered a first leg of 29 miles, followed by 24 miles; 27 miles and the final loop, a hop, skip and a jump of 20 miles.

Due to the nature of the Barossa Range and the substantial distance we were able to cover with a travelling ride, all legs were pretty equal in difficulty – basically there was no respite from the ups and downs and no shorter, easier final leg. The winning time of 12:42hrs may seem slow by today’s standards but it was a surprisingly fast effort over that track, considering the next successful rider over the line was the lightweight division winner almost 2 hours later.

“THE QUILTY RIDE, held at Gawler on June7th, went off in great style. It was won by Jenny Oliver on Glenallan Solomon, a duo which has had great success in the past year by winning the 1985 Winton to Longreach ride in QLD, as well as last year’s Quilty in NSW.”

With an initial budget aim of $25,000 to run the event, the procurement of some excellent (while not huge) sponsorship and a lot of enthusiasm from endurance clubs, local businesses, groups and individuals, the 1986 inaugural SA Tom Quilty event made a reasonable profit. The committee happily gifted $500 to Tasmania to help kick start their first TQ the following year as a sign of goodwill and a heads up to the “new” TQ format, with the balance being set aside for the next SA Tom Quilty in ’92 – and that’s another story!

So here we are, embarking on our 7th TQ event in South Australia, returning to the wonderful venue of Wirrina Cove, where those relentless climbs and descents are waiting for you to test you and your horse’s grit and determination. Make sure, no matter how much pain you may be in, you take in the magnificent panoramas that are a part of this inspiring coast. This will be a Quilty buckle to be forever proud of!

Robbie Benson riding

Kate 4th junior TQ86

Photo credit - the late Peter Gower

Jill Ross riding Warrondi Lignum, (on the right) - 9th Open rider at TQ86

Photo credit - the late Peter Gower

The Tom Quilty Buckle

The Australian buckle was always set to be an ongoing design process. Minor changes to the design and manufacture of the buckle are a part of its further product development. Some changes will be noticeable over time, some not. An evolution of the buckle is an important part of making the best product possible within the guidelines of quality versus cost.

The buckle sees the same State Floral Emblem engraving pattern representing all Australian States that have hosted a Tom Quilty under the overarching Golden Wattle, Australia’s National Floral Emblem. The engraving process has changed slightly and some small embellishments have been added to the design. All in keeping with its uniquely Australian theme.

The bezel, back and rider are cast, in Australia, in a heavy phosphor bronze using a process known as investment casting. The buckle face is bright cut engraved via a polished diamond into solid Australian sourced and manufactured Sterling Silver sheet.

Whichever Quilty buckle you have earned, whether it be the from the first in 1966, or any of its various incarnations since its humble origins, it represents the same thing. It represents your failures and triumphs, your hard work and determination, and most of all a great horse under you that did the distance on the day. No matter which buckle you have, you can be proud of the achievement, what it represents, and the horse that carried you 160k in a day.

11 Reasons to do a Tom Quilty in Tasmania

Tasmania provides a unique ‘Tom Quilty’ experience boasting the most southerly ride base in Australia. Perched so far south, it guarantees something special and it’s worth planning the journey to include it in your Quilty destination bucket-list.

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ELEVEN OF THE BEST REASONS TO DO A TOM QUILTY IN

TASMANIA

The Spirit of Tasmania Ferry offers smooth sailing. It’s the easiest, most efficient and professional way to get you and your beloved steed to Tasmania. It’s usually an overnight sailing so you can rest your head, wake and drive off. Too easy. Horses travel the Bass Straight crossing nightly, so rest assured, they do it easy too.

In Tasmania, you get to breathe the freshest air in the world, drink the cleanest water and see a unique variety of wildlife. Nothing beats the Quilty midnight start, breathing the intoxicating fresh, crisp air and looking up at a starry, starry sky.

Even our tourism campaign encourages you to take the journey to Tassie and COME DOWN FOR AIR!

The Ride Base at Sassafras is great, compact and enclosed, and it’s perfectly sited; only a 15 minute drive from the ferry terminal. Once there, you can relax and enjoy the convenience of the location. Tasmanian people are friendly, helpful and will do just about anything to ensure you have a great experience. The Quilty base will offer a jolly, carnivallike atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.

Photo creditRoger Nichols

TASTING

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS TO DO:-

Remember, to successfully complete 160 kms in 24 hours is an achievement in itself, but to achieve your Quilty buckle on the island of Tasmania, is deemed by many as the ULTIMATE.

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It’s also on the road to all the best food places. The Tasting Trail, is a food and drink self-drive trail designed to assist you and your taste buds in discovering the finest produce that Tasmania’s North West has to offer.

Whether you’re into sweet treats, fresh produce, fine wines or other delicious delights, you can enjoy award-winning produce, cellar doors and farm stalls, and the personalities behind them.

Eating and drinking your way along the Tasting Trail will take some time, with over 50 producers from Launceston to Smithton.

Anvers chocolate factory; a must visit place for chocoholics, Ashgrove farm cheese; a family owned dairy since 1908. You can dine in, browse the shop, all while watching cheese being made through large windows. Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm; the focus is on everything raspberry. You can’t miss trying a chocolate coated raspberry and experiencing the explosion of yum in your mouth. A short drive on, Melita Honey Farm; with over 70 taste-testers, your insides will be buzzing. Keep exploring to Tasmanian Truffle Farms where you can do a tour and watch the talented sniffer dogs hunt out a delicacy. Buy a truffle to take back to camp and shave it into your scrambled egg breakfast. A taste sensation you’ll never forget. Finish a superb day with a tipple of gin at the Red Brick Road Cider tasting shed in Deloraine.

There are many little country towns to visit that ooze charm and character. Sheffield, known as the town of murals with its majestic Mount Roland. Bustling Latrobe is full to the brim with great shops to explore and there is a once in a lifetime chance to spot platypus in the river. Deloraine is another great river-side township to visit. Only 20 minutes from the ride base. Take a stroll along the Meander river and up the main street with shops and art galleries, and fuel up with coffee and tasty baguettes from the Deloraine Deli. History buffs will love the incredibly well-preserved Deloraine Museum.

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Iconic Cradle Mountain is just over an hour drive away and is a magic part of the world to immerse yourself into the wilderness. Tasmania is famous for its walks and Cradle Mountain is synonymous with nature, wilderness and all things pristine. Wildlife is in abundance in this spectacular national park, giving opportunity to encounter tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats and the highly inquisitive black currawong. The National Park offers world class walking trails to explore. Then consider The Spa at Cradle Mountain Lodge overlooking Pencil Pine River with a steam room, sauna, hot tub and cool plunge pool ideal for easing those aching horse-riding muscles.

Make use of your Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife entry and take your horse to Bakers Beach in Narawntapu National Park for a training ride. This national park on the Bass Strait coast, is only half hour drive from the ride base and is tailormade for horse riders, with holding yards (and an attached campground) and two dedicated horse trails: one along the deserted white sands of Bakers Beach;23km return, and a native bush trail of 26km. Parks permits are required to bring horses into the park, and must be arranged a few days in advance.

Whether you’re drawn by the stunning natural beauty, the unique wildlife, or the burgeoning food and wine scene, Tasmania has something for everyone coming south for the Quilty next year.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU

DOWN HERE.

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Explore the delights of North West Tassie and head for the quaint fishing village of Stanley. The north west drive is spectacular. The Bass Highway connects the main coastal towns so the shimmering sea views alone are worth the drive. It’s a good idea to call into Penguin. Stop and enjoy a brew at the Penguin Beer Company just metres from the beach. If the weather is calm grab a stool on the outdoor deck and channel the beach vibes. Heading onward, as the scenery grows more wild and rugged, you can’t miss the turn off to Stanley, as “The Nut”, a 152 metre high volcanic plug dominates the landscape. In its shadow, lies the cutest town. Climbing up the Nut is a must to get ready for your marathon horse-ride. The incline is steep but only about 15 minutes to get to the top and the 360 degree views are worth it. The north west region is abundant with some of the world’s finest produce. Local Cape Grim steak, fresh farmed abalone, mouth-watering fish and chips can all be found in Stanley. If you stay the night, check out the fairy penguins that bombard the town. If you head to the beach in the evening you can’t miss the noisy honks and squawks as they shuffle back to their nests.

Regarding The Ride; The Quilty entries are smaller in Tasmania than the mainland, so if you like running up the pointy end of the event and being competitive, the dream to win or place well is more achievable than in any other state.

It’s likely to be awesome weather (definitely not too hot and not humid) perfect for riding a 100 miler and for strapping your horse.

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Opti-Gut is great if people are struggling and on a budget but still want to do the right thing for their horse’s health. You can feed it to your horses out of your hand.

LYNDA FIELD

Tribute to Ron Males, OAM

‘Do not go where the road may lead, but go ahead and leave a trail’

Nothing could probably better sum up the legacy left by Ron Males than this quote.

Ron, together with wife Val, founded Ralvon Stud in 1954. A stud whose hoofprints have left an indelible print in the Arabian community worldwide.

It’s hard to know where to begin, and as I write this, on a personal level, the stories, memories and tears come flooding through my mind and down my cheeks – as I’m sure they do for many.

Ron forged so many new pathways for Arabian lovers, breeders and owners – Ralvon mares and stallions became the cornerstone of many breeding programmes, both in Australia and worldwide.

In 1966, Ron, together with wife Val, were instrumental in planning and organising the first Tom Quilty 100 mile Endurance ride. He was also instrumental in the foundation of the Australian Endurance Riders Association in 1967.

Ron, during his endurance career, claimed 21 Qulity buckles – he was the first to gain his 1000 mile buckle (10 completions) without a single vet out –a record in itself.

In 1969, a chestnut colt was born on Ron’s birthday – this colt Ralvon Pilgrim, (Rikham x Trix Silver), in 1977 went on to become the first International Arabian Champion Stallion when taken to the UK to be shown. Prior to his World Championship win, he had amassed an outstanding show record in Australia. His progeny today span the globe.

A roll call of Ralvon winners, both here and overseas springs to mind – Ralvon Elijah, Ralvon Nazarene, Ralvon Job,

Ralvon Siver Jubilee, Ralvon Royal Jubilee – and the list goes on.

Always prepared to take a risk, Ron (and Val) were instrumental in importing new bloodlines to Australia with the US Egyptian stallion, The Puritan and the Polish stallion, Milex.

Ron, again, forged a new pathway for Australian Arabians with his relationship with Sheik Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the UAE with the first export of Australian endurance horses, among them the stallion, Palexis (Milex x Promissa). Others have since followed with Australian endurance horses now being recognised as some of the best in the world.

Aside from his vast contributions to the Australian and worldwide Arabian industry, Ron was a man who will also be remembered for many other attributes.

Ron was a friend to many, a mentor to more. Always prepared to listen and never judgemental. His family meant the world to him. His friendship circle

was diverse and widespread. He had a dry and wicked sense of humour, and at times could also be a ‘bit of a larrikin’ as those of us privileged to travel to interstate Quilties with him can attest. He was also a wonderful storyteller. He was a consummate horseman –the like of which is rarely seen, and together with wife Val, a breeder of excellence.

He will be very sadly missed, and I’m sure all in the Arabian community send heartfelt condolences to Val, and his children, Kerry, Phillip and Peter, together with their partners, and Ron’s extended family of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

I am proud to have been able to call him a friend of over 40 years standing, and I know that there are so many in our Arabian community who share that honour as well – his passing marks the loss of an Arabian icon.

RIP Ron.

Helen Rutland Chair, Arabian Horse Society of Australia

VALE Barry Akers

14TH JUNE 1937 - 31ST JULY 2024.

Horses have always been a significant part of Barry’s life, starting from a young age. In 1987, Barry’s son-in-law, Louis Giacomi, bought an Anglo Arabian horse for trail riding, which led them to discover Endurance Riding as someone suggested to Louis the horse may be better suited to Endurance. Barry, ever the cheeky bugger suggested that since he was a more experienced rider he ride Louis’s horse, Mr. Spock, at their first event. They both became hooked and the need for another horse became apparent so they could ride together and not share Mr Spock. A trip to Bathurst resulted in them coming home with two horses from the Chip Chase Stud and plans to purchase a stallion, Arabesque Majestic to start breeding their own endurance horses. During the 4-day drive home, they made plans. Since Barry had the land and Louis had the money, Louis purchased all the horses, which were kept at Barry’s place and a partnership had begun leading to the creation of Arabell Arabians.

Barry became deeply involved in the sport over the years, holding several positions, including President of the Far North Endurance Riders Association. He was always willing to lend a hand, particularly when track marking, becoming a Temperature, Pulse and Respiration Steward and Chief Steward. It was during an act of love for the sport when he lost half a finger making a trophy for the FNERA Club. The wood got caught in the router and pulled his finger mincing immediately.

Barry is fondly remembered for his dedication and helpful nature.

Endurance riding which started as a full family affair with Barry’s grandkids, Kristie Sheehan and her siblings, Lisa and Brendan also competing with him and Louis eventually turned into just Barry and Kristie. He and Kristie shared a very close bond, with countless training and competing together in numerous events, including the Tom Quilty Gold Cup National

Championship, State Championships and Pioneer Trek 400km marathons.

Barry was a competitive rider in the Heavyweight division, achieving significant milestones, including completing the 400km Pioneer Trek Marathon five times and earning two Quilty buckles with the second at the age of 78. He was the eldest rider to complete the Tom Quilty in 2015 and is still one of the eldest to do so. He made many friends through Endurance Riding, including Alwyn Torenbeek, in whose honor after his passing in a tragic accident, Barry created a perpetual trophy for the eldest rider to complete the QLD State Championship 160km.

At 80, Barry had to stop riding after a few bad falls but remained involved with Endurance and horses. He bred his last horse, a pure bred Arabian gelding named Ameehs (Dam - Aneehs, Sire - Allira Park Solitary Emerald) also known as Ash, who was bred out of Aneehs (Dam - Stornoway Takaesheena, SireArabesque Majestic) a mare he and Kristie had bred together. Barry took immense pride in how far Ash had come in Kristie’s care. Recently, Barry was overjoyed to see Kristie and Ash complete the 400km Pioneer Trek. Barry sent Ash to Kristie three years ago, gifting him to her so she could fulfil the dreams he had envisioned for him. It is certain that Barry will now be present at each and every event with Kristie and Ash, watching over them with the same pride he always had.

Rest in Peace Barry. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit and stories will forever live in our hearts.

ENDURANCE HIGHLIGHTS

1993 Pioneer Trek 400km Marathon riding Stornoway Donna 33Hrs

1994 QLD State Championships

160km Stornoway Donna 3rd HW 19Hrs

1998 Pioneer Trek 400km Marathon riding Arabell Najestic 46Hrs

1999 Pioneer Trek 400km Marathon riding Arabell Najestic 42Hrs

1999 QLD State Championships 160km riding Arabell Najestic 4th HW 17Hrs

2000 Tom Quilty Gold Cup riding Arabell Najestic 16th HW 16Hrs

2001 Pioneer Trek 400km Marathon riding Arabell Bronze Magic 36Hrs

2013 Pioneer Trek 400km Marathon riding Trilogy AG 40Hrs 47mins

2015 Tom Quilty Gold Cup riding Norfolk Park Comet 14th HW 15Hrs 25mins

VALE Sue Parsons

OF KARUMBA ARABIANS

Jodi Scholz remembered Sue’s life in nominating her to the AERA Hall of Fame

Sue learnt to ride in India in the 1940s. Sue started endurance riding in the early 1970s and completed 13,074 kms. She has 19 Quilty buckles to her credit: 1976, ’79, ’80, ’84, ’85, ’86, ’87, ’88, ’90, ’91, ’92, ’93, ’94, ’95, ’96, ’97, ’98, 2002 and 2004.

Sue lived for the Quilty every year. She was an honest competitor who loved to mentor other aspiring endurance riders. She suffered from many health ailments but didn’t let them deter her from her passion of “To Complete is to Win.” Never a placegetter of note, but always cared for her mounts as best she could.

Sue and her partner Alison Nicholas had a small Arabian stud in northeast Victoria, Karumba Arabian Stud. The

stallion they had for 20+ years was Ralvon Traveller, a son of Ralvon Pilgrim. They bred about 10+ progeny a year and Traveller bred well and was a paddock stallion with a wonderful nature. He always on improved on himself. I was her strapper for most of the endurance rides and 16 Quilty Gold Cups. We had some wonderful times and made many friends.

Sue died in April this year at the age of 88. To this day there are some Karumba horses still competing in endurance riding. We had 30 good years of wonderful competition with beautiful horses we bred ourselves. These horses were magnificent examples of Sue Parsons’ dedication and love of her wonderful animals that made her a loyal and fantastic

competitor in endurance riding in Australia. She was born in England but made her home in Australia from the late 60s. She was a wonderful credit to Australian life as were her horses.

Sue was also fondly remembered by Tina Manousaki

I met Sue back in the late 90’s through a mutual friend, Dave Mortimer, who was farrier and breaker/starter for Sue. I was looking for an endurance pony and Dave happened to have “one of Sue’s” and “a nice type” at his place, Karumba Valentine.

K Valentine was a quirky gorgeous, little mare with a lion’s heart and Sue recognised the immediate bond between us and offered me to ride her. Sue’s dedication to legging her horses up to enable them longevity in the demands of endurance was unwavering. Her training was always horse welfare first and enjoy the ride. “Go with what they give and never canter uphill on an unseasoned horse!”

Sue didn’t waste words but was an educated conversationalist and loved relaxing around a campfire at rides socialising all things endurance. Shahzada mini marathon was one of Sue’s favourite events to “bring a young horse on, with 3 consecutive days, on those trails and they learn to look after themselves and grow a brain!” I had the privilege to attend 2 mini Shahzada’s with K Valentine and K Nariel.

Sue’s favourite mare K Traveller’s Joy” was retired by the time I came along, and I was in awe of their mileage achievements and 10 TQ buckles together. Sue had a personal goal to equal Ron Males TQ tally, at that time Sue had 18 and I think Ron had 19. At Landsborough TQ Sue achieved her 19th buckle on Karumba Quixote and I my 1st on the beautiful K Nariel.

VALE Sam Timms

AERA acknowledges the passing of Sam Timms in January 2024.

Sam was a strong competitor in the early years of endurance, achieving 9 Tom Quilty buckles and winning the Tom Quilty Gold Cup twice.

His first win was in 1967 riding Zig Zag. In the Tom Quilty Stories 1966 – 1999, written by Erica Williams, Sam is described as “a drover from Queensland” and his win was in a time of 11 hours and seven minutes.

Sam won this event again in 1977 on Tallyho in a time of 9 hours 20 minutes and 34 seconds, setting a new record. The “quiet horseman from Roma, Queensland ..not only won the 1977 Quilty 100 Mile ride and created a new record but (had) also become the first person to win the Quilty twice”.

Of note Sam drove down from Queensland with his horse in an old single float. He had no strapper, just did it all himself.

Jodie gave me strict instructions to “not let Sue out of my sight” and I remember around the 3rd leg Nariel and I walking along and all of a sudden Sue goes trotting by giving me a wave as she disappeared around a bend. With Jodie’s words ringing in my head, Nariel and I gave chase.

One of the strongest ethics Sue bestowed on me is to ride to the motto, To Complete Is To Win. and thanks to Sue’s commitment to all that the motto represents, I have been sponsoring Last Over the Line and To Complete Is To Win prizes for many years.

Sam wth Zig Zag, TQ winners in 1967

Sam with Tallyho, TQ winners in 1977

VALE Terry Wood

It is with sadness that we say farewell to Terry Wood, one of the giants of endurance riding.

Terry was a two-time Quilty winner on Peppersfield Nabucco (“Biscuit”) in 1997 at Watagan Mountains in NSW and 1999 in at Deloraine in Tasmania, equal with Ron Haigh. A tribute to his determination and competitive spirit, this second win was accomplished with seven broken ribs after a collision with another rider!

Terry amassed a remarkable total of 20 Quilty buckles including two top 5 placings on his other outstanding horse Andarra Shareef.

He represented Australia at the World Equestrian Games in Sweden in 1990 riding Kilaben Bay and at the World Championships in France in 2000 on Peppersfield Nabucco.

Terry was known for his tactical riding, travelling conservatively in the dark and then blitzing the field once daylight arrived.

More recently he competed mainly on homebred horses under the Tallawarra prefix.

Over his 42 year career in endurance he achieved over 24,000 km in successful completions.

Fittingly, he earned his final buckle at the 2015 Quilty at Webbs Creek on the home-bred Tallawarra

Terry Wood at the 2000 World Equestrian Games in France, where the Australian Endurance team won Gold.

VALE Sue May

Sue May sadly passed away in Sydney on Saturday, 4th May.

Sue's involvement with endurance riding began back in the 1970's and continued through until the mid-1990's.

She was a fantastic ambassador for the sport of endurance riding at home and abroad, always competing with passion whether it was a Taralga 80km, a Shazada 400km, a Race Of Champions in the USA or an event in the UAE. An amazing horsewoman, Sue always put the wellbeing of her horse first.

Sue had many achievements, but a career highlight was her Quilty and fittest horse win in 1979 on the wonderful Karella Buckshot.

Sue's independence, courage and fierce determination will be badly missed.

ARABIANS

THE HEARTBEAT OF ENDURANCE

James Sheahan riding

Minton East Chaucer

(Musical Gully Allegro x Minton East Willows Gift)

AUSTRALIAN REP FOR WEG

Design Kerri Hill | Photo Sarah Sullivan Photography