In its 39th year, the Shoalhaven Dressage Club proudly maintains its status as the South Coast of NSW's largest Official Dressage Club. Throughout its rich history, the club has consistently drawn in top-tier riders, many excelling at State, National, and even International levels. The past year has been no exception, accomplished equestrians such as Alycia Targa, Pamela Bice, James Collin, Catherine Chittenden, and Charlotte Phillips represented the club and the region with distinction at numerous major competitions across the country.

The club recently hosted its 39th Annual Awards ceremony—an anticipated evening announcement of the Completely Equine Horse and Rider of the Year. The deserving recipient of this award was James Collin, demonstrating his exceptional riding atop Bellissimo Stud & Agistment Centre’s Horse, Bellissimo Laurenzo. The memorable moment was captured in a striking photo by B M Photography.

The event also celebrated other riders, with Abigail Kus winning the Nowra Coaches Junior Rider of the Year title riding CP Lord Alfred. Tanya Lekluse secured the Bishop’s South Nowra Preparatory Champion of the Year award riding The Mockingbird.

Further acknowledging excellence in various categories, the club honoured the following individuals and their equine partners:

• Bellissimo Agistment Centre Preliminary Champion of the Year: Teale Drummond riding George
• Illawarra Equine Veterinary Novice Champion of the Year: Linda Elkins riding Floki
• Salway Rural Development Elementary Champion of the Year: James Collin riding Laurenzo
• Neversfelde Medium Champion of the Year: Catherine Chittenden riding Bluefields Bellini
• Jervis Bay Stockfeeds Pony of the Year: Kaleena Matthews riding Kirrang Rosewood
• PB Dressage Veteran Horse of the Year: Carolyn Hartley riding Mister Pipster

The Shoalhaven Dressage Club continues to be a thriving hub for equestrian excellence, fostering a legacy of skilled riders and their exceptional equine partners.